The first BAPS mandir in the state of Louisiana was inaugurated with great excitement on Saturday, July 2, 2016, in the presence of Sadguru Pujya Kothari Swami (Pujya Bhaktipriya Swami), swamis from India, North America and devotees from across the region. The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in New Orleans is the result of many years of Satsang growth in the community which began with a visit from His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj in 1984. Pramukh Swami Maharaj visited the homes of several devotees, sowing the seeds of faith and unity. Over time, the growth in Satsang activities created a need for a mandir.
Pramukh Swami Maharaj performed the murti-pratishtha rituals in Sarangpur, India, on June 19, 2016. These murtis were consecrated in their respective shrines by Pujya Kothari Swami amid a Vedic mahapuja ceremony. Devotees and well-wishers offered prayers for world peace and harmony throughout the local community.
The inaugural assembly held after the murti sthapan vidhi applauded the devotion of devotees who have committed their time and effort towards completing the mandir. Pujya Kothari Swami (Pujya Bhaktipriya Swami) said, "We are fortunate to have Satsang in our lives, and the opening of this mandir will provide an opportunity to further strengthen our spiritual practice to help us attain peace and happiness.” The mandir will serve as a BAPS hub for spiritual, family, and charitable activities in Louisiana.