On August 30, 2023, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Robbinsville, NJ, marked its 9th anniversary. This special occasion, coinciding with the auspicious day of Rakshabandhan, was graced by the divine presence of HH Mahant Swami Maharaj.
The Pãtotsav is a traditional sacred ceremony celebrating the anniversaries of murti consecration (pran pratishtha) in mandirs. The term "Pãtotsav" is a combination of "paat" and "utsav," where "utsav" means festival. "Paat" originates from "patti," referring to a strip of garment tied on a murti's head, from which the term "paat" evolved.
The patotsav ceremony, which began at 6:30 am, celebrated the moment nine years ago when the Mandir's murtis were infused with divinity by HH Pramukh Swami Maharaj. Sadguru Pujya Bhaktipriyadas Swami (Kothari Swami), Sadguru Pujya Tyagvallabhdas Swami, Pujya Anandswarupdas Swami, Pujya Narayanmunidas Swami, Mahamahopadhyaya Bhadreshdas Swami and other swamis from India and North America led the rituals, including the abhishek of the murtis, and offered prayers for worldwide peace and harmony. The ceremonial patotsav arti was performed by Mahant Swami Maharaj. Additionally, as a highlight of the patotsav, an array of sweet and savory dishes were gracefully offered to the deities while thals were sung.
Later, HH Mahant Swami Maharaj returned for annakut darshan on his way to the Kalash Pujan Ceremony of BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham.