The weekend of August 10, 2019 marked a historic occasion for Beaumont, TX as the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in the “Golden Triangle". area officially opened its doors to the community. The day celebration commemorating the Mandir opening attracted devotees and well-wishers from all parts of the local and regional community.
Satsang in the Beaumont, TX area began through the inspiration of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj in 1995. Since then, a handful of families regularly came together to conduct satsang assemblies. Over the years, the congregation grew and the need for a mandir became evident. Over the past several years, the devotees wholeheartedly dedicated themselves to turn the dream of a mandir into a reality. Their hard work and sacrifice culminated in the inauguration of the new mandir.
The auspicious occasion of Murti Pratishthā took place on Saturday, August 10, 2019. Devotees and members of the local Hindu community partook in the Vedic mahāpujā. Thereafter, the head swami of BAPS North America, Pujya Yagnavallabhdas Swami, conducted the Pratishthā rituals, infusing divinity in the murtis, amidst the chanting of Vedic mantras and prayers. The murtis of Bhagwan Swaminarayan and Aksharbrahma Shri Gunatitanand Swami, Shri Guru Parampara, Shri Radha-Krishna, Shri Sita-Ram-Hanumanji, and Shri Shiv-Parvati-Ganeshji were consecrated. These murtis were originally consecrated by HH Mahant Swami Maharaj in Houston, TX on August 17, 2017.
That same afternoon, a kirtan ārādhanā (singing of devotional hymns) was performed by swamis and devotees. For those in attendance, it was an opportunity to reflect on the timeless traditions and values that the Mandir instills in all.
The completion of the mandir marks a new chapter for the devotees of BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Beaumont, TX and one they eagerly awaited. The mandir will become a focal point for cultural, spiritual and charitable enrichment for generations to come. It will be a place where all members of the community can gather for spirituality and community service.