BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Miami, FL held its 15th-anniversary celebration on Saturday, June 25, 2016. This significant day was marked by a mahapuja in the presence of swamis and devotees. The mahapuja was followed by a unique event organized by women, for women, to mark the occasion.
The Mandir opened on August 11, 2001 through the inspiration of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj and the commitment of swamis and dedicated devotees. To celebrate the 15th anniversary, well-wishers from tri-county area of South Florida joined at the mandir to participate in the mahapuja. The mahapuja décor and setup was designed by a team of volunteers, adding to the festive morning mood to begin the day.
Along with the mahapuja, an annakut (offering of various homemade foods) was prepared by devotees. The main program, themed "Nishtavan Bhavaha", showcased the value of leading a Satsang-centric life through a keynote speech by Pujya Shantmurtidas Swami, emphasizing the importance of Hindu values, the need to share them with the next generation, and the integral role that mandirs play in communities to build a foundation for these values.
The afternoon festivities featured a program presented by women among their peers. Through a series of skits, musical performance, and elevating talks, attendees explored the importance of togetherness and unity within a mandir while looking back at BAPS milestones made possible by faith and teamwork. The special program celebrated women from the Mandir, who have worked together to strengthen a collective practice of spirituality. The concluding speech by Nehaben Shah highlighted the importance of cultivating a values-based life for one’s self and one’s family through the practice of becoming an ideal devotee.