The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in New Jersey, inaugurated in 2014 by His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, has completed a decade of fostering unity, community, and devotion. Often referred to as New Jersey's "marble marvel," this mandir has become a prominent cultural and spiritual hub, welcoming thousands of worshippers and visitors and offering them a sanctuary of peace and fulfillment. Over the past ten years, the mandir has stood as a beacon of spirituality, faith, and harmony, hosting numerous spiritual, cultural, and community programs. To commemorate its 10th anniversary, a series of vibrant and enriching activities were organized, reflecting the mandir's ongoing mission to foster peace, universal values, and spiritual connection for generations to come.
Kirtan Aradhana
On July 16, 2024, devotees and visitors gathered to enjoy a live performance of kirtans in front of Tapomurti Nilkanth Varni. This day, Ashadh Sud 10 in the lunar calendar, marks the departure of Nilkanth Varni Maharaj from Ayodhya as he embarked on his spiritual journey across India to enlighten thousands of aspirants. The event also commemorated the anniversary of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj attending a special kirtan-bhakti program at the same place the previous year.
This musical tribute highlighted the profound influence of Bhagwan Swaminarayan and the gurus on the lives of countless devotees worldwide. Children and devotees from nearby centers also participated, offering their devotion during the event.
Parivarik Ekta Mahapuja
On July 27, 2024, the 10th anniversary celebration continued with a special Parivarik Ekta Mahapuja, themed "My Mandir, My Home." Parivarik Ekta, meaning ‘Family Unity,’ emphasizes harmony, mutual respect, and togetherness within families.
This special mahapuja focused on strengthening family bonds and fostering collective spiritual growth. Children of BAPS conducted the entire puja, having specially learned the Vedic mantras for the rituals. Recorded blessings from Sadguru Pujya Kothari Swami, Sadguru Pujya Doctor Swami, and His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj were shared with the participants.
Volunteer Assembly
On August 16, 2024, a special assembly for volunteers was held to celebrate the remarkable contributions of BAPS volunteers from Robbinsville, New Jersey. The event honored their dedication, devotion, and sacrifices over the years. Pujya Gnaneshwardas Swami highlighted their service and reminded attendees of the importance of humility in maintaining the true purpose of service, encouraging personal growth.
Annakut & 10th Anniversary Assembly
As part of the 10-year celebrations, devotees and visitors enjoyed the darshan of the Annakut lovingly prepared, artistically arranged, and devoutly offered to the sacred images of God. The offering included traditional Indian delicacies and beautifully decorated cakes.
On August 17, 2024, devotees from New Jersey, New York, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia took part in a special celebration to commemorate Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s historic visit to Robbinsville in 2014. The event reflected on his immense efforts to travel to America at age 92. Devotees recalled the mandir opening rituals and devotees who gathered to experience his divine presence. Many expressed gratitude for how he fulfilled their wishes despite his age.
Pujya Nilkanthsevadas Swami shared Swamishri’s enthusiasm for BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Robbinsville, highlighting what makes it special. In conclusion, Pujya Gnaneshwardas Swami spoke about the purpose of Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s visit: bringing people closer to God by nurturing his qualities within us. He urged everyone to remember Swamishri’s guidance to inspire spiritual growth.
The evening assembly included special guests such as Ambassador Dr. Mohamed Al-Hassan, Permanent Representative of Oman to the United Nations, who praised the art and culture of BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir and BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham. Former Indian MP and journalist Mr. Tarun Vijay also spoke, sharing his reflections on Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s selfless service and experiences in Robbinsville.
Patotsav
On the morning of August 19, 2024 (Shravan Sud 15), the anniversary day according to the Hindu calendar, the key ritual of the patotsav (anniversary celebration) was the Murti Abhishek. In this sacred ceremony, the murtis (sacred images) were ceremonially bathed with sanctified substances, symbolizing purification and the renewal of devotion, and reaffirming the spiritual bond between devotees and the divine. The ceremony took place in the presence of Pujya Gnaneshwardas Swami, Pujya Gnanpriyadas Swami and other swamis from across the region. Additionally, the first anniversary of Akshardham was celebrated with a special ritual. Following the morning patotsav rituals, a special assembly honored families in the Northeast region with members who have been initiated as swamis. Pujya Gnaneshwardas Swami conveyed gratitude on behalf of Mahant Swami Maharaj and highlighted the services performed by these swamis.
In the evening, a patotsav assembly brought together devotees from New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware to commemorate Mahant Swami Maharaj’s visits to Robbinsville in 2017 and 2023, celebrating the bliss he bestowed upon devotees and the gift of Akshardham. Pujya Gnanpriyadas Swami and Pujya Gnaneshwardas Swami spoke on the spiritual importance of building Akshardham within oneself. Special guests, including Assemblyman Herbert Conaway and State Senator Vin Gopal, expressed their appreciation for the mandir’s impact and presented a declaration recognizing BAPS’ support for the community.
10th Anniversary Grand Finale
On September 29, 2024, a palkhi yatra of Akshar Purushottam Maharaj, led by women, took place in the afternoon. In the evening, the grand finale program titled “My Mandir, My Home” illustrated how different generations find a sense of belonging through their experiences at the mandir. Children and teenagers shared the values they learned, while young adults spoke about gaining discipline and balance through the mandir’s programs. Adults and seniors expressed how the mandir reinforced their faith and resilience. Volunteers appreciated the opportunities to serve and build meaningful connections within the diverse community.
Pujya Yogananddas Swami concluded by explaining the mandir's purpose—to bring people closer to God and develop divine qualities by recognizing divinity in everyone. Community leaders and officials visited throughout the day, highlighting the mandir's role as a cornerstone of cultural and spiritual life.
Representatives from various organizations attended the event, along with officials such as Councilman Justin Musella and Mercer County Executive Dan Benson. Benson shared his appreciation for BAPS' contributions, quoting an African proverb: "If you want to go fast, go alone. But if you want to go far, go together." He presented a proclamation to honor the mandir's ongoing efforts.