On October 4, 2023, a momentous event took place at the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in Robbinsville, NJ, as the second of three sessions of the Murti Pratishtha ceremony was presided over by His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj. This sacred ceremony marked the consecration of divine murtis, including Bhagwan Shri Ram, Sitaji, Hanumanji, Lakshmanji; Bhagwan Shri Shiv, Parvatiji, Ganeshji, Kartikeyaji; Bhagwan Shri Krishna, Radhaji; Bhagwan Shri Tirupati Balaji, Padmavatiji and the revered lineage of BAPS spiritual gurus.
Prior to the commencement of the Vedic rituals, Pujya Ishwarcharandas Swami spoke on the trials and tribulations that Shastriji Maharaj, the founder of BAPS, faced when establishing the Akshar-Purushottam principle. Detailing the challenges and lack of resources during that era of satsang, he contrasted against being days away from the opening of the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in North America. He emphasized how far the faith and sacrifices of our gurus have brought us to this moment. He expressed gratitude and grace to Bhagwan Swaminarayan, whose sacred image will take a central place inside Akshardham, forever benefiting many generations of people who will visit.
The auspicious occasion witnessed the presence of distinguished guests, with Pujya Swami Govinddev Giri, Treasurer of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, among the honored attendees. Addressing the assembly, he said, " That you’ve forever constructed (BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham) is a lighthouse. What is a temple? It is a lighthouse, and it shall give its light forever. This lighthouse will spread through generations in the form of knowledge. This is a temple of humanity; a temple of faith; a temple of universal love; a temple of universal brotherhood.” This significant ceremony exemplifies the deep spiritual and cultural significance of the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in North America and its commitment to preserving and promoting Hindu heritage.
In his blessings, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj said that all who visit this Akshardham will be inspired by the messages carved in the stone. Swamishri guided all that now it’s time for us to take inspiration from the physical landmark and build Akshardham within ourselves, filling it with devotion, purity, and humility. Noting the extraordinary nature of everyone’s dedication, Mahant Swami Maharaj offered deepest gratitude to all who played a role in Akshardham’s completion.
Throughout the nine-day inaugural ceremonies, Akshardham Mahotsav will celebrate the significant aspects of the mahamandir and the universal values upon which it was constructed.