On August 18, 2024, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Parsippany, New Jersey, celebrated the Murti Pratishtha of Shri Nilkanth Varni Maharaj. The festivities began with a vibrant Nagar Yatra—a grand procession filled with devotional songs and traditional dances performed by youths, setting a festive and devout tone for the day.
Following the procession, Pujya Swamis conducted a Vedic Mahapuja, attended by hundreds of devotees from across New Jersey. The Murti Pratishtha ceremony was led by Pujya Yagnavallabhdas Swami. Other swamis present on the occasion included Pujya Mangalswarupdas Swami, Pujya Shantyogidas Swami, Pujya Adarshnayandas Swami, and Pujya Rajendradas Swami. 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.
Parsippany's Mayor, James R. Barberio, emphasized the significance of the event and the robust partnership between the township and the community. Devotees now have the cherished opportunity to perform or arrange for an abhishek on significant personal days, such as birthdays, wedding anniversaries, remembrances, or to seek blessings for personal matters. This practice allows them to express their devotion and seek divine grace on special occasions, deepening their personal spiritual connection and providing solace and inspiration.