The birth anniversary of Brahmaswarup Bhagatji Maharaj, the second spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, was devoutly celebrated on 22 March and again on 26 March 2016 at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London.
The evening programme on Tuesday 22 March began with devotional bhajans illustrating the divine personality of Bhagatji Maharaj. Sadhus portrayed the piety and devotion of Bhagatji Maharaj through a pictorial journey, drawing upon key milestones and achievements.
The festivities concluded with video highlights of Bhagatji Maharaj’s birth celebrations held in the presence of Pramukh Swami Maharaj in Sarangpur, India earlier in the day.
Special assemblies were organised at the Mandir on Saturday 26 March 2016 to further consolidate the understanding of Bhagatji Maharaj’s uncompromising spiritual devotion and principles as well as their relevance to aspirants of all ages.
Children enjoyed a learning experience through practical and interactive exercises to provide contextual comparisons for their own spiritual endeavours.
The Kishore-Kishori Mandal delved deeper into the finer details of Bhagatji Maharaj’s life, relating these incidents to their own circumstances and perspectives. The Yuvak-Yuvati Mandal focussed on imbibing his virtues to become better members of society and their family.
The day after Bhagatji Maharaj’s Hindu calendrical birthday is known as ‘Pushpadolotsav’ – the spring festival of flowers and colours – where devotees ask God to colour their lives with devotion and spirituality. Pushpadolotsav is celebrated in the presence of Pramukh Swami Maharaj on a grand scale every year.
The Sanyukta Mandal expanded upon the historical and spiritual significance of this festival through vibrant devotional songs as well as video presentations and discourses from sadhus. A collage of video blessings by Swamishri from previous festivals brought the celebrations to a fitting finale.