With the blessings of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, the tireless dedication, unwavering faith, and relentless efforts of the devotees of Charlotte reached a momentous milestone on Sunday, June 9, 2024. This date marked the Vedic Groundbreaking Ceremony (Bhumi Pujan) for the new BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Charlotte and its surrounding areas have been blessed by the spiritual visits (vicharan) of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj and His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj over the years. As the number of devotees grew, the existing facilities became insufficient to meet the expanding needs of the Hindu-American community in terms of cultural, social, and religious activities. Consequently, the construction of the new Mandir and Satsang Activity Center became imperative to address the evolving needs.
The Bhumi Pujan ceremony included a traditional mahapuja ritual that blessed the land amid Vedic chants and prayers for peace and well-being to prevail throughout the local community. The ceremony, attended by over 900 devotees and well-wishers from Charlotte and the surrounding areas, marked a significant milestone in the construction of the new Mandir. The event was graced by the presence of revered Swamis, including Pujya Yagnavallabhdas Swami, Pujya Shantmurtidas Swami, Pujya Shukmunidas Swami, Pujya Munitilakdas Swami, Pujya Adarshnayandas Swami, and Pujya Agampriyadas Swami. Earlier, Mahant Swami Maharaj performed the pujan of the soil in India and blessed everyone involved. Several distinguished guests attended the ceremony, including Mr. John Higdon, Mayor of Matthews, and Ms. Mary-Ann Baldwin, Mayor of Raleigh. Also present were the project architects, engineers, and community members.
The Bhumi Pujan ceremony signified the beginning of a new chapter in BAPS Charlotte's history, which dates back to 1996 when Pramukh Swami Maharaj inaugurated the first Mandir. The new Mandir will serve as a hub for spiritual activities, cultural programs,and community service initiatives including health fairs, walkathons, blood donation drives, and other volunteer based efforts further strengthening the bonds of unity amongst all in the community.