On June 1, 2024, the Murti Pratishtha of Shri Nilkanth Varni took place at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Clifton, NJ, in the presence of revered swamis creating an atmosphere of profound devotion and spiritual bliss.
The eagerly awaited consecration ceremony of Shri Nilkanth Varni Maharaj took place in the presence of Pujya Yagnavallabhdas Swami, Pujya Nilkanthsevadas Swami, Pujya Haridarshandas Swami, and other swamis. The day began with a vibrant Nagar Yatra, a procession filled with devotion and energy. Female devotees led the way with joyous singing, creating an atmosphere of pure devotion. Following the procession, a Vedic Mahapuja took place, with the air resonating with sacred chants and prayers.
The spiritual ambiance set the perfect stage for the main event – the Murti-Pratishtha ceremony of Shri Nilkanth Varni Maharaj. Pujya Yagnavallabhdas Swami performed the ceremony. This profound ritual signifies the transformation of the murti into a living deity infused with divine energy. Thereafter, swamis performed the first abhishek and arti of the newly consecrated murti. As the sacred water cascaded over the deity and the arti was performed, the entire gathering was enveloped in a sense of divine bliss, creating a timeless moment of spiritual elevation for all present.
Devotees will now be able to offer an abhishek – or arrange for one to be performed on their behalf – on days of special significance to them, such as a birthday, wedding anniversary, or in remembrance of a loved one, or sometimes to seek blessings for a personal reason.