Charlotte
The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha in Charlotte celebrated Holi and Pushpadolostav on March 30. Volunteers spared no effort in bringing the auditorium alive with vividly planned and well-adorned decorations. This memorable occasion was graced by the presence of sadhus..
The day commemorated the birthday of Bhagatji Maharaj who was the second spiritual successor of Lord Swaminarayan after Aksharbrahman Gunatitanand Swami. His austere life is a shining inspiration to all seeking truth and redemption and is a story of ultimate devotion and unconditional surrender. Melodious bhajans and kirtans accompanied by Indian musical instruments held the audience spellbound. The day was further auspicious as it marked the celebration of Holi.
The sadhus explained the symbolic and religious significance of this festival as they noted that this festival is to mark the burning of self-conceit, selfishness, greed, lust, hatred, and other undesirable tendencies, propensities, thoughts and behaviors. It also signifies the victory of good over evil. The program concluded with a musical drama on life of Prahlad. The climax that brought the audience to its feet was the dramatic entry of Nrusimh avatar (Lord Vishnu), who had come to protect his devotee Prahlad from his evil father Hiranyakasyapu. The evening concluded with everyone enjoying a rich and lavish mahaprasad.