Official News-letter from Shri Narnarayandevdesh Diocese Vol : 6 • No : 71 MARCH-2013

Founded By H.H. Acharya Maharaj 1008 Shri Tejendraprasadji Maharajshri, Shri Narnarayandev Diocese. Shri Museum Narayanpura, Ahmedabad-13. Phone : 27489597 • Fax : 27419597 C O N T E N T S H.H. Mota Maharajshri 01. EDITORIAL 03 Phone : 27499597 www.swaminarayanmuseum.com 02. APPOINTMENT DIARY OF 04 With the directions of Shri Narnarayandev H.H. ACHARYA MAHARAJSHRI Pithadhipati H.H. 1008 Shri Koshalendraprasadji 03. 05 Maharajshri Controlling Editors & Publishers 04. BHAGWAN EMBRACED THE PILLAR 08 Shastri Swami Harikrishnadasji MAHANT 05. AS HE IS 09 SHRI SWAMINARAYAN TEMPLE Kalupur, Ahmedabad-1. 08. SHREE SWAMINARAYAN MUSEUM 10 Phone : 22132170, 22136818 Karbhari office : 22121515. 09. WAVE OF PLEASURE 12 Fax : 22176992. www.swaminarayan.info 10. SATSANG BALVATIKA 13 Editorial & Subscription Address Shri Swaminarayan 11. BHAKTI-SUDHA 19 Shri Swaminarayan Temple Kalupur, AHMEDABAD-1 (INDIA) 12. NEWS 22 For a Change in Address : E-mail : [email protected]

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MARCH-2013 • 03 “We time and again reiterate the importance of Shree Narnaryandev. It is the essence. Shree Krishna Purushottam Shree Narnarayandev of Akshardham always remains present in this Sabha. And therefore, we are getting this temple with dome constructed in Ahmedabad by spending lacs of rupees and have invoked the idol images of Shree Narnarayandev. Shree Narnarayan is the King of this Universe and therefore, anybody who worships any other deity by leaving Shree Narnarayandev is like a woman who stays with other man by leaving her husband. Shree Narnarayan is King of Bharatkhand as it is stated in Shrimad Bhagwat. We have incarnated to ensure emancipation of the saints and the devotees. So if you believe in our words, we would take you to Akshardham where we reside and then you may rest assured with your emancipation. And if you cherish firm faith in us and follow our words and directions scrupulously, we will protect you from all the miseries of life. If you perform Satsang and follow all the directions contained therein very scrupulously then you will get emancipation in life but if you do not perform Satsang then you will get great Misery in life.” (Vachanamrit Jetalpur-5) Therefore, all Haribhaktas should imbibe these words of Shreeji Maharaj in their lives and should scrupulously follow these directions as our emancipation lies in it only. Nothing more is required to be stated.

Editor Mahant Swami Shastri Swami Harikrishnadas

MARCH-2013 • 04 Appointment Diary of H.H. Acharya Maharaj 1008 ShriKoshalendraprasadji Maharajshri (February- 2013) 1. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Halwad (Ghanshyamnagar) on the occasion of invocation of idol images. 2. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Kuha on the occasion of Shakotsav. 3. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Dahegam on the occasion of Shakotsav. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Naranpura on the occasion of Shakotsav Umia Campus, Sola. 7. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Ramol Jamfalwadi on the occasion of invocation of idol images. Graced Nairobi in the evening. 8 to 12 Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Nairobi on the occasion of Bhoomi Poojan. 13. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Umarada (Muli Desh) on the occasion of invocation of idol images. 15. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Muli on the occasion of Vasant Panchmi Patotsav and Samaiya. 16. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Uvarsad on the occasion of Patotsav. 17. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Gavada on the occasion of Katha. 18. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Torda on the occasion of patotsav and 225th Janm-jayanti of Sadguru . 19. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Borna (Muli Desh) on the occasion of Patotsav. 20. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Naranpura, on the occasion of Patotsav. 21. Graced village Singali on the occasion of Katha. 22. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Madhavgadh (Prantij) on the occasion of Patotsav. 23. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Patdi on the occasion of Patotsav. 24. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Bhimpura on the occasion of Shakotsav. 26. Graced village Halwad for inauguration of Mineral Water Factory. 27. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Mahesana on the occasion of Patotsav. 28. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Limbdi on the occasion of Patotsav.

APPOINTMENT DIARY OF OUR FUTURE ACHARYA 108 SHRI VRAJENDRAPRASADJI(February- 2013) MAHARAJ 3. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Jivarajpark, on the occasion of Patotsav. 9. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Varsoda. 15. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Muli on the occasion of Samaiya of Vasant Panchmi. 16. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Gavada. 24. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Bhimpura on the occasion of Shakotsav.

MARCH-2013 • 05 should worship the panchayatan (five deities). Vaishnavas should place Vishnu Shikshapatri in the centre (of the Altar) and thus The Epistle of Precepts consider him as the greater. If Vishnu is in the centre, then Shankar, Ganpati, (based on Shatanand’s Shikshapatri and should be placed around Arthadipika) Vishnu in that order starting from the the By Pravin S. Varsani Northeast and working your way round clockwise. If is in the centre, then Text-84 Vishnu should be placed in the Northeast (Ushaan), Surya in the Southeast (Agni), My disciples shall reverently worship Ganpati in the Southwest (Nairutya) and the five deities Vishnu, Shiva, Devi in the Northwest (Vayavya). Similarly Ganapati, Parvati and Surya. if Surys is placed in the centre, then Shiva, Vishnuha Shivo Ganapatiha Parvati Ganapati, Vishnu and Devi are placed in Cha Divakaraha | similar order. If Devi is placed in the centre, Etaha Pujyatya Manya Devtaha Pancha then Vishnu,Shiva, Ganapati and Surya Mamakauha ||84|| are placed accordingly. If Ganapati is in the Worship of the five deities is here centre, then Vishnu, Shiva, Surya and Devi g l o r i f i e d . G a n a p a t i K h a n d a o f are placed accordingly. Placing the deities Brahmanvaivartak explains, ‘Ganapati is in this way will derive great happiness and considered as an Avatar of Shree Krishna bliss. However, if the deities are placed and is the first of all Devas to be incorrectly then great tyranny can befall.’ worshipped.’, therefore is worthy of high It is said that the Gopis, Vasudev and honour and worship. Ruksmini looked upon Shree Krishna in Parvati is considered as the ‘half-body’ different ways (as a lover, son and or Ardhanga of Shankar and is worshipped husband)- however, in the end, all attained as the ‘Eternal Power’- Adi Shakti and is Shree Krishna the embodiment of Vishnu,. therefore honoured hee. Shree Shankar is Therefore it is not incorrect or unworthy for worshipped as he is considered as one with people to worship a deity other than Vishnu Shree Vishnu and is also famed as for all will be doing so attain Mahavishnu- Vaishnavaraja (king amongst Vaishnavas) the Supreme Being. and as the promoter of Vaishnav Dharma. Ishtadev worship is the greatness of For such reason he has been honoured , which allows a person to with great respect. Surya-Narayana is the dedicate himself or herself to any one deity, saviour of all twice-born beings (Dwijas - but in the end all attain the same ultimate upper three castes). He is the principal of goal,. In this way, only one Ishtadeva the Gayatri Mantra and is Bhagwatswarupa should be ultimately worshipped but all (form of God), Veda Swarupa (form of the other Devas are worthy of respect, praise ) and is the main cause of Dharma. and worship. Under no circumstances For such reasons, he is worshipped with should any deity be slandered, as to do so high honour. In this way, all five deities are would inadvertently be to slander your own respected equally. Out of these five, one Istadeva. deity should be considered as one’s Lord Swaminarayan has therefore Ishtadv or personal God. commanded that the Vratas of other deities Narad Pancharathra explains, ‘All such as Shiva, should be observed. All Grihastas (householders) with devotion, should sing the glories of other deities as appropriate; this is the greatness of our

MARCH-2013 • 06 Lord who instilled equality and respect for armour of psychic potency relating to all gods in our Sampradai. Narayan). Protected by it, Indra was able to easily overcome the armies of Asuras. The Text-85 narayan Kavacha in Sk 6, Ad 8, 12-34, In the event of afflictions caused by invokes all the 24 incarnations of God and any evil spirits, they shall chant the asks each to protect them from varous Stotram of ‘Narayan Kavacham’ or undesirable influences and facts. It invokes ‘Hanumaan Stotram’, but shall never Lord Hari, using his many names to protect chant the Mantras of any other deity. them throughout the day. It invokes the Bhutadhupadrave Kvapi Varma various weapons of God to protect you by Narayanatmakam | destroying evil. Japyam Cha Hanumamantro Japyo Na Similarly Hanumaan’s greatness is Kshudradaivataha ||85|| equally renowned in the Ramayan. His Sometimes for reasons of impurity, sin devotion to was clearly glorified. etc. one can become subject to afflictions Hanumaan is a Deva of astonishing caused by Ghosts (Bhuta) and other attributes. His strength, knowledge, skills paranormal phenomena such as evil spirits and total mastery of all arts makes him (Preta, Pisacha, Shaakini, Brahman worthy of being invoked. Rakshasa etc.). In such circumstances one Rama, at the end of the Lanka episode, should chant the Narayan Kavacha, as pleased with his dedication to him offered stated in the Sixth Skanda of Shrimad Hanumman a boon. Hanumaan asked not Bhagwat. for any material happiness, but asked that One should wash their hands and feet, he stay upon th Earth as long as people perform Achmana for purification, sit facing sing the Great story of Shree Rama, so that North, perform Nyaasa using their fingers he may be fulfilled by listening to the stories and body as they chant Mantras (this of Rama and also that if any pains befall invokes and the Gods to protect various any devotees of the Lod then he should be parts of the body) observe Moun (silence) capable of destroying such pains. and then they should chant the Narayan Thus Hanumaan became immortal and Kavacha – the ‘Armour of Narayan’. indeed, no Vaishnav temple is considerd a Alternatively one may chant various temple without the Idol of Shree Rama’s famed Mantras of Vira Shree Hanumaan. favourite devotee, Shree Hanumaan. One should never invoke any other God Hanumanji was the Kul Deva or family deity apart from Shree Krishna or his Bhaktas as of the Dharma Kul. He has on numerous to do so leads to a sin of Anyashraya. occasions, coe to the savour of Dharma nd Invoking hanumaan does not lead to this Bhakti, by freeing them from thetyranny of sin as in the Ramayana, Raghunaath EvilSpirits. This was as per the instruction explains, “Whomsoever calls for my of Dharma Deva’s father, who commanded dearest Hanumaan for shelter has called that Hanumaan should be beckoned in for me.’ such situations. Bhagwat’s Sixth Skanda tells the story In this way, we too can afford protection of Indra’s insult to the Deva’s , by chanting and invoking the Narayan Brihaspati and Indra’s subsequent defeat. Kavacha or Hanumaan Stotra. Even today, At the advice of , he approaches many find solitude and peace of mind by Vishvarupa to take the place of Brihaspati chanting the great ‘Hanumaan Chalisa’ of on his departure. It was Vishvarupa who the seventeenth century saint-poet imparted the Narayan Kavacha (the Goswami Tulsidas.

MARCH-2013 • 07 BHAGWAN EMBRACED THE PILLAR - Purushottamprakashdas (Jetalpurdham)

With the directions of Bhagwan Shree of the inner temple. Swaminarayan, first Shree Swaminarayan Shreeji Maharaj embraced the pillar made temple of the world was being constructed at from the stone brought by the great devotee Ahmedabad under the guidance of Sadguru Jiva Bhagat and remembered the great Anandanand Swami. Shree Hari himself had services rendered by the devotees and been placing the stones of Prasadi with five uttered the words, “Whosoever devotee shall hundred Parmahamsas. Haribhkatas were perform divine Darshan of this bringing stones from the stone pillar, shall get the result m i n e s o f Z a l a v a d a n d equivalent of performing divine Sabarkantha. All the devotees D a r s h a n o f S h r e e were rendering their services Narnarayandev. Whosoever according to their convenience. will touch this pillar, shall get all One such ardent devotee his sins burnt.” in this Jivabhai Virugama Patel of Nana importance of this pillar of Ankevalia was bringing his cart Prasadi has been narrated by loaded with stones from Shree Hari time and again. Dhrangadhra. When he was Thereafter whenever Shreeji b r i n g i n g t h e s t o n e s t o Maharaj used to grace our Ahmedabad it was very hot and Ahmedabad temple to perform they were passing by sim of divine Darshan of Shree Viramgam near Kankaravadi. Narnarayandev, would touch One of the bullocks broke its leg and perform Darshan of this rendering him incapable of pillar and many saints used to moving ahead. So Jiva Bhagat of perform Dandwat Pranam. Our Nana Ankevalia started carrying Aadi Acharya H.H. Shri the load of the cart alongwith the Ayodhyaprasadji Maharaj used other bullock as it was the urgent to perform divine Darshan of and dire need of the stones at this pillar everyday. All the Ahmedabad and for want of stones of our Ahmedabad stones the construction work had temple have been touched and stopped. Jiva Bhagat was sanctified by Shree Hari and carrying the load with his Nand saints and therefore shoulders and was chanting the these stones of Prasadi are name of Bhagwan Shree more valuable than even Swaminarayan. With hard work jewellery and gold. The cart of and great enthusiasm, Jiva Prasadi is kept for divine Bhagat brought the stone to the temple. Darshan in Shree Swaminarayan Museum. Sadguru Anandanand Swami went to receive Many such interesting real stories are hidden and perform darshan of the ardent devotee behind each and every thing of Prasadi which Jiva Bhagat. are kept for divine Darshan in our Museum. When the cart reached at the site of the This incident is heard by us from the temple, the great devotee Jiva Bhagat devotee Mavji Chhagan Devji Dahya Bhavan uttered the words that, this cart was brought – the heir of the great devotee Jiva Bhagat of by Bhagwan Shree Swaminarayan and that Nana Ankevalia, which is narrated on the he himself had nothing. Anandanand Swami basis of the notes written in an old book got the stone carved carefully into a beautiful preserved by their forefathers and this is a pillar and placed it before the idol images of fact. Shree Radhakrishnadev in North-East corner MARCH-2013 • 08 ÃkwÁ»kku¥k{{ktÚke «økx ÚkkÞ Au. yLku ÃkkAk ÃkwÁ»kku¥k{Lku - Atul B. Pothiwala rð»ku ÷eLk ÚkkÞ Au.” Gadhda Middle-13 AS HE IS (Memnagar-Ahmedabad) “yLku íku su íku ¼økðkLkLkku ËZ yk©Þ Au yuðku “These are our words, this is our Form.” rLkŠðæLk {køko fkuE LkÚke.” Gadhda Middle-13 The way in which Bhagwan has introduced “yLku su íkusLku rð»ku {qŠík Au íku s yk «íÞûk His own Form in the Shiksha Patri is really {nkhks Au yu{ òýòu.” Gadhda Middle-13 wonderful. The three words are interlinked “yLku yu ðkík (íku su íku ©e Mðkr{LkkhkÞý very beautifully by which one can ¼økðkLk íku s ykÃkýk EüËuð yLku Mkðo yðíkkhLkk understand Him very easily. “yLku yu Mkðuo MkåAk†Lku rð»ku su ð[Lk íku su íku fkhý) suLku Mk{òýe nkuÞ íkuLkku íkku yrík {kuxku yk©Þ ©ef]»ý ¼økðkLkLkwt MðYÃk íkÚkk Ä{o íkÚkk ¼Âõík íkÚkk nkuÞ. swykuLku y{khu Ãkh{ntMk íkÚkk MkíMktøke Mk{Mík ðihkøÞ yu [khLkk yrík Wíf»koÃkýkLku fnuíkk nkuÞ Au.” ÃkkMkuÚke fkuE MðkÚko MkkÄðku LkÚke íkku Ãký fkuELku çkku÷kðeyu Aeyu, fkuELku ðZeyu Aeyu, fkuELku fkZe {wfeyu Aeyu Shloka-101 of Shiksha Patri “yLku yu ©ef]»ý ¼økðkLkLke ¼Âõík íku su íku Ä{uo íkuLkwt íkku yu s «ÞkusLk Au su fkuE heíku yk ðkík Mk{òÞ íkku Mkrník s fhðe, yuðe heíku íku Mkðuo MkåAk†Lkwt hnMÞ Au.” çknw MkkÁt ÚkkÞ yLku yk ðkíkko Au íku Mkðuo áZ fheLku Shloka-102 of Shiksha Patri hk¾ßÞku. yLku su su ¼økðkLkLke ðkík fhku íku íku ðkíkLku “yLku su Eïh Au, íku su íku, su{ ÓËÞLku rð»ku Sð rð»ku yk ðkíkLkwt çkes ÷kðßÞku yu{ y{khe yk¿kk Au. hÌkku Au íku{ SðLku rð»ku ytíkÞko{e Ãkýu fheLku hÌkk Au Lku yLku yk ðkíkko íkku yuðe SðLkËkh Au su Ëun hnu íÞkt MkwÄe Mðíktºk Au, Lku Mkðo SðLku f{oV¤Lkk ykÃkLkkhk Au, yu{ rLkíÞ «íÞu fhðe yLku Ëun {qfeLku ¼køkðíkeíkLkwyu fheLku EïhLku òýðk.” Shloka-108 of Shiksha Ãký yk s ðkíkko fhðe Au.” Gadhda Middle-13 Patri In these three words, there is divine “yLku Mk{Úko yuðk su ©ef]»ý íku su íku hkrÄfkSyu touch of Paravaani of Shree Hari which Þwõík nkuÞ íÞkhu ‘hkÄkf]»ý’ yuðu Lkk{u òýðk yLku includes both the meanings. Bhagwan Áf{ýe YÃk su ÷û{e íku{ýu Þwõík nkuÞ íÞkhu Shree Swaminarayan is our Istdev and shelter to Shree Sahjanandi Maharaj is real ÷û{eLkkhkÞý yuðu Lkk{u òýðk yLku yu ©ef]»ý íku su íku shelter and the easiest way towards yswoLku ÞwõÞ nkuÞ íÞkhu LkhLkkhkÞý yuðu Lkk{u òýðk emancipation. yLku ð¤e íku ©ef]»ý su íku çk÷¼ÿkrËfLku Þkuøku fheLku íku íku So let us pray to our Bhagwan Shree Lkk{u fnuðkÞ Au yu{ òýðwt. Shloka-109,110 of Swaminarayan that, “Oh Maharaj! May Shiksha Patri we always understand the real meaning Shree Krishna Purushottam Narayan is and importance of Your Supremacy and Bhagwan Shree Swaminarayan and He is Omnipotence and May we always our Istdev. cherish ardent faith of Your this “yLku yûkhkíkeík su ÃkwÁ»kku¥k{ ¼økðkLk Au íku s Omnipotent Form – till this body Mkðuo yðíkkhLkwt fkhý Au. yLku Mkðuo yðíkkh remains and even thereafter.”

MARCH-2013 • 09 Shree Swaminarayan Museum

Shree Hari had performed Utsav of Fuldolotsav in Ahmedabad with saints and Haribhakatas on the pious day of Fagan Vad-1 Shree Narnarayandev Jayanti and had played with colours with this sprinkler. Since then, every year, H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj of our Sampradaya has been performing Rangotsav and has been preserving this noble and pious tradition. Another such grand Ranotsav is also performed in Muli on the pious day of Vasant Panchmi. These sprinklers are kept for divine Darshan in Hall No.4 and Hall No.7 of our Museum. The stage and the clothes which were used by Shree Hari while performing Rangotsav, are kept in Hall No.7 for divine Darshan of the devotees.

MARCH-2013 • 10 List of devotees who rendered their services under Shree Swaminarayan Museum Maintenance Bhet Yojna January-2013 Rs.10,00,000/- N i r m a F o u n d a t i o n T r u s t , occasion of birthday of Shri Ahmedabad. S u v r a t k u m a r a n d S h r i Rs.10,00,000/- Nima Memorial Trust, Ahmedabad. Saumyakumar. (sons of Shri Rs.1,00,000/- Jitubhai Bhujangilal Mehta, Binduraja) Vadodara. Rs.11,000/- Vinodbhai-Nilaben patel, Rs.1,00,000/- Akshar Nivasi Laljibhai Lavjibhai Dharmaj. Patel- Ahmedabad Akshar Nivasi Rs.7,100/- Shree Swaminarayan temple, Amrutben Laljibhai Patel, Akshar Gavada. Nisai Hasmukhbhai Laljibhai Patel Rs.5,555/55 K a c h a T a i l o r s t h r o u g h t h r o u g h J a y a n t i b h a i , Kapilbhai- Leicester. Jayprakashbhai and Aswinbhai for Rs.5,000/- J a g d i s h b h a i A . P a t e l , pillar of Prasadi Manekpur. Rs.51,000/- Shree Swaminarayan temple, Rs.5,000/- Bhavikkumar Bhagabhai Patel, Torda. Manekpur. Rs.51,000/- Akshar Nivasi Patel Jiviben Rs.5,000/- Nitaben, Kinjalben, Savitaben, Popatlal Joitaram Parivar, Kalol. Mokhasan. Rs.5,000/- Minaben K. Joshi- Ghanshyam Rs.25,000/- Chandubhai Trikamdas patel- Engineering, Ahmedabad. Karjisan through Dipakbhai, Rs.5,000/- Bharatbhai Dalsangbhai Hiteshbhai (at present U.S.A) Chaudhari-Bhimpura. Rs.11,000/- H.H. Shri Mota Maharaj on the Rs.5,000/- Jayendrabhai-Ranip. List of Host devotees who availed the benefit of Abhishek of Shree Narnarayandev in Shree Swaminarayan Museum January-2013 01/01/2013 Babulal Trikamlal Thakkar, Gandhinagar. Viramgam 14/02/2013 Shreeji Swaminarayan temple 07/02/2013 Ketanbhai Sharma-U.S.A. ( l a d i e s ) , G h a n c h i w a d , 09/02/2013 Patel Pranjivanbhai Kanjibhai, Dhrangadhra, through Sankhya Devpura, through Paresh, Vishal Yogi Kanchanba, Hiraba, and Nil, (at present Australia). Bhaguba. 10/01/2013 Rajubhai Kantibhai Patel. 16/02/2013 Shri Naranbhai Amathidas Patel 10/02/2013 Shri Kiranbhai V. Gandhi, family-Vaduwala. Gandhinagar, with the inspiration 23/02/2013 Shri Jemiben Jayeshbhai Patel- o f S w a m i H a r i p r i y a d a s j i , Sydney. Note : All the visitors of our Shree Swaminarayan Museum may kindly note that, photography and videography are strictly prohibited in our Museum. And yet if any of the visitors has done any photography and/or videography of the Museum in the past, then it may not be published in any form at any place. Anybody found indulging in such activities directly or indirectly would invite action in accordance with law, which may kindly be noted. Museum Mobile : 98795 49597 Devotee Shri Parshottambhai (Dasbhai, Bapunagar) : Mobile No. 99250 42686 www.swaminarayanmuseum.org/com email:[email protected]

MARCH-2013 • 11 Maharaj to take the meals and prayed Wave of ardently but in vain. Maharaj did not even look at . also tried his hand and played Pleasure pranks and danced and thereby tried to persuade Maharaj, but these tricks did not work. Devotees thronged together but there are no words from Maharaj. Now came WHY IS THAKRANI BARE FOOTED? forward and garbed himself in the dress of - Shastri Harijivan Swami (Mahant, a woman. All other saints and devotees Himatnagar temple) did not know this. So the moment they The face of Shreeji Maharaj sitting in saw a lady devotee coming towards the Sanga Machi in Gadhpur is today not so Sabha of Maharaj they all stood up and happy. Generally divine Darshan of started talking with each other. They Shreeji Maharaj grants happiness to apprehended lest such a venture of this everybody but today the shade of lady would break their fast. unhappiness on the face is not without any Maharaj could not tolerate this and reason. asked the lady devotee, “Where How desolate? Maharaj would not talk Thakarani is going? And why is Thakrani with anybody, nor would utter any words. bare footed? Brahmanand Swami in the All were sitting dumb with strange silence garb of lady devotee and covering the beyond anybody’s comprehension. In the face replied, “Going to the field where evening when it was the time of Thaal, Thakor has been working.” and Maharaj Mukund Brahmchari came to call Maharaj laughed. With the words of Maharaj with and said, “Maharaj, please accept the smiling face, there was happiness in the meals lest the meals would become cold.” whole Sabha. And Mukund Brahmchari but Maharaj was not listening to anybody. came to call Maharaj and Maharaj went Muktanand Swami also tried to persuade with him for the meals.

For 24 hour live Darshan of Shree Narnarayandev www.swaminarayan.info www.swaminarayan.in Aarti Darshan (Indian Standard time) _ Mangala Aarti : 5.30 hours Shangaar Aarti : 8.05 hours Rajbhog Aarti : 10.10 hours Sandhya Aarti : 18.30 hours Sayan Aarti : 20.30 hours

For Nitya-Darshan in following temples log on to: Jetalpur : www.jetalpurdarshan.com Mahesana : www.mahesanadarshan.com Chhapaiya : www.chhapaiya.com Torda : www.gopallalji.com Narayanghat : www.narayanghat.com Vadnagar : www.vadmagar.com

MARCH-2013 • 12 BHAGWAN THE PROTECTOR OF BHAKTA - Shastri Haripriyadasji (Gandhinagar) Just as a mother takes care of her child, our Bhagwan also takes care of us. In fact Bhagwan is worried about all our worldly affairs and helps us whenever it is required, just as our mother prepares the meals and offers us the meals everyday and at right time. Here is one such incident wherein Bhagwan Shree Hari takes care of the ardent devotee. This is an incident of village Kholdiyad of Saurashtra. In the Darbar of all the saints and devotees are sitting SATSANG BALVATIKA Compiler Shastri Harikesavdasji surrounding Maharaj. Meanwhile Ruda (Gandhinagar) Bhagat came in the Sabha from his village Kholiyad brining a bag. Maharaj asked, “What is there in this bag?” Ruda Bhagat said, “Maharaj, it is the bag of Bajri and I for the purpose.” Maharaj asked Ruda have brought it for You for rendering my Bhagat, “How much grains are consumed ardent services to You and to the saints by you ?” Ruda Bhagat replied, “Maharaj it because I could grow Bajri due to your comes to about five Kalshi grains in a year.” blessings only.” then Maharaj said, “Go to the field of Sura Maharaj asked, “What did I do?” Ruda Bhakta at village Nagadaka and work in his Bhagat replied, “Maharaj! You are field.” to this Ruda Bhagat replied, “I am omniscient and omnipotent. Yet I narrate the Nadoda Rajput by caste and I do not know incident for the information of all the how to work in the field.” then Maharaj devotees and Haribhaktas.” asked, “Whether you have taken any crop Some years ago there was drought in the in your field?” Ruda Bhagat replied, “Yes whole Saurashtra region including our Maharaj. Crop of Bajri is attempted this village Kholiyad. At that time you had graced year. But due to lack of water, the whole our village and my house, too. It was severe crop of Bajri is going to be burnt dry in the draught at that time and there was hunger scorching heat of the Summer season.” and theft everywhere for obtaining money After taking rest for some time, Maharaj by hooks or crooks. It was the struggle for went to other village alongwith the saints. survival for everybody. The farms and fields Ruda Bhagat slept in his house. In the were dry and there was not a single drop of morning, the villagers thronged at his house water anywhere in the whole region. The and informed him that, there were good lakes and wells had dried up and in the crops in his field and there was rain only in Summer it was scorching heat. At that time his field. Immediately Ruda Bhagat rushed Maharj asked Ruda Bhagat, “Ruda Bhagat, to his field and to his surprise he saw water purchase some seeds.” Ruda Bhagat everywhere in his field. He immediately replied, “Maharaj, I have no money to locked his house and built a hut in the farm purchase the seeds.” Maharaj said, “Then and stayed there until the crops were ready. sell off your ornaments, if you have, and The partner of Ruda Bhagat of Darbar caste purchase the seeds and work in the field.” to came to Ruda Bhagat and demanded his this Ruda Bhagat replied, “I do not have any share from the standing crops. The villagers ornaments and nobody can lend me money came to know about this and they all got

MARCH-2013 • 13 together and told him that, this was due to all the Brahmins were being offered the ardent Bhakti of Ruda Bhakti that Bhagwan meals; so Bhima also took his seat alongwith Shree Swaminarayan had blessed him with that Brahmin and started taking meals. To the good crops in his field and therefore now the surprise of all, all the meals were being Darbar cannot claim any right about his devoured by Bhima and the utensils of the share. But Ruda Bhagat was just and kitchen which were full initially had now benevolent. He offered the Darbar his share become empty. and prepared one bag to offer it to Maharaj The message went inside the palace to and brought it to Gadhada for Maharaj and the rest of the Pandavas and Kauravas and the saints. Kuntimata that, one Brahmin had finished all He came to the Darbar of Maharaj in the meals which were prepared for all the Gadhpur and offered the bag of grains to Brahmins. Hearing this, Kuntamata doubted Maharaj. Maharaj took some grains and the that this person could be nobody else but rest of the grains were offered to all the saints Bhima only. In order to ascertain the fact, and the devotees as Prasadi. Kuntama went inside the kitchen prepared Dear devotees! Even today Bhagwan is some sweet balls and asked Yudhisthira to always worried and concerned about the offer the sweets balls to that Brahmins. welfare and happiness of the devotees When Bhima completed two sweet balls out provided the devotees perform ardent Bhakti of five offered by Yudhisthira, he found his and remain devout in their life because hunger satiated as he was habitual of Bhagwan Shree Swaminarayan is always finishing his meals from his mother present in Satsang. Kuntamata. • Dear devotees, ponder carefully about OFFERED BY BHAGWAN this incident. Touch of loving hand of the - Sadhu Shrirangadas (Gandhinagar) mother is capable of satisfying the hunger of There is one Katha in the great epic Bhima. Similarly loving hand of Bhagwan Mahabharat. Kauravas got together and also brings satisfaction in our life. So conspired to kill Bhima. Accordingly, they Paramatma while granting money also gave him poison in the food and tied his grants satisfaction to the people but only to hands and legs and dropped him into the those who believe that he is blessed by deep waters of the river. Bhim reached in Bhagwan. This is real satisfaction in life. Patal-Lok. Here in Hastinapur, it was There are people who keep on earning declared that, Bhima has died and lacs of rupees per month yet there is no announcement was made for performance of satisfaction in their life and therefore they the after-death rituals. keep on roaming here and there to earn more During such rituals, Duryodharan feigned and more money as if he intends to purchase to be the unhappiest person due to sudden everything upon this earth. So if there is no death of Bhima, but Bhagwan Shree Krishna satisfaction in life, then one must understand knew everything and hence did not utter any that, it is not granted by Bhagwan. A person words. who is granted blessings and money by After one year, Bhima came from Patal- Bhagwan is always satisfied with whatever lok with long beard and hair due to which he is having in his life. nobody could recognize him. It was the time So whatever may be our occupation, of performing social ritual on completion of service or business and whatever money or one year of death of Bhima and so all the profit we may earn or get from it, we should Brahmins were invited for the meals on this offer some portion out of it to Bhagwan as per social occasion. One of such invited the directions contained in the pious Brahmins so Bhima and believed him to be ‘Shiksha Patri’ and the rest we can use for one of such Brahmins and asked him to our worldly affairs. Then there would be accompany him. In the palace of Hastinapur, happiness and satisfaction in our life.

MARCH-2013 • 14

FROM THE BLESSINGS OF H.H. SHRI GADIWALA ‘RECOGNIZING THE ORIGINAL FORM OF BHAGWAN’ - Compiled by Kotak Varsha Natvarlal, Ghodasar) ¼ÂõíkMkwÄk Whenever Paramatma incarnates upon this earth in human form then there are three BHAKTI-SUDHA purposes or objectives behind such an incarnation. Bhagwan Shree Krishna has stated in the pious ‘Bhagwat Gita’ : ÃkrðºkkýkÞMkkÄqLkkt rðLkkþkÞ [ Ëw»f]íkk{T >> age it would not be possible for him to perform Ä{oMktMÚkkÃkLkkÚkkoÞ Mkt¼ðkr{ Þwøku Þwøku >>8>> the task, Bhagwan asked him to explain the “I incarnate on this earth for protection of Original Form of Bhagwan to Vidurji who in Sadhu Purush (noble persons) and for turn will introduce and explain the Original destruction of Dusta (devil and demons) Form of Bhagwan to the people of this world. and for establishing Dharma (religion).” And Bhagwan entrusted the task of establishing Ekantik Dharma with Uddhavji. So when Lord Shree Krishna incarnated upon this earth at the end of Dwapar Yuga, Thus, Uddhavji started roaming in this there were primarily three objectives behind His world attempting to explain the Form of incarnation: Bhagwan; but the moment he tried to utter the worlds his throat used to get choked up and he 1) Protection of Sadhu Purush (noble could not utter any words. In his attempts, in all persons) : That means to protect those person 114 years passed. Therefore, Uddhavji prayed who follow Truth and who observe Dharma in to Bhagwan Shree Krishna to help him. their lives. Accordingly Bhagwan Shree Bhagwan directed him to go to Badrikashram Krishna protected His parents Devki-Vasudev and to pray to Shree Narnarayandev. Uddhavji by killing his demon-like maternal uncle Kamsa, scrupulously followed the directions, went to protected Pandavas by getting the Kauravas Badrikashram and prayed to Shree killed and also protected Gop-Balaks by killing Narnarayandev requesting to help him. But as Adhasur. we all know, Bhagwan Shree Swaminarayan 2) Destruction of Dusta (devil and cannot be pleased so easily; similarly demons) : That means right from His Bhagwan Shree Swaminarayan cannot be Childhood Bhagwan Shree Krishna started displeased easily. Accordingly, Uddhavji destroying the demon-like people who were performed ardent prayer for three thousands harassing the good people. Putana, years. At last Shree Narnarayandev was Shakatasur, Balasur, Vatsasur, Adhasur, pleased with Uddhavji and asked him the Kamsa, Shishupal, Jarasangh, Kaliyavan and boon. Uddhavji explained everything about the at last fifty six crore Yadavs were destroyed all task of establishing Ekantik Dharma in the of whom were harassing the common people. world. Shree Narnarayandev called Rishis and 3) Establishment of Dharma (religion): Munis and asked them to ascertain the facts. the Last and the most important work of The Rishis and Munis explained that, there Bhagwan Shree Krishna was to establish was so much of Adharma upon the earth and it Ekantik Dharma. While sitting under the Peepal was expedient to establish Ekantik Dharma. tree at Prabhaspatan Bhagwan that most of the Shankarachrya, Ramanujacharya etc. Rishis time is passed in accomplishing the first two had tried their best for establishing Ekantik tasks so now the third task should be entrusted Dharma but nobody was successful. So with somebody else. Meanwhile Maitreye Rishi U d d h a v j i a g a i n r e q u e s t e d S h r e e and Uddhavji came there. Bhagwan Shree Narnarayandev to do something. Rishis and Krishna directed both of them to introduce and Munis were present there. Meanwhile explain the Original Form of Bhagwan to the Dharmdev and Bhaktimata came there. All people of this world and to establish Ekantik were discussing the matter. Meanwhile Dharma. When Maitreye Rishi that, due to old

MARCH-2013 • 19 Durvasa Rishi (son of Atri) came there but otherwise we would not get its fruits completely. nobody noticed him. Known for his short temper Sadguru has stated in and angry nature, Durvasa Muni felt himself ‘Haribal Gita’: dishonoured and cursed all of them that they “ÃkwÁ»kku¥k{ «økxLkwt Lkk{ rLk¼oÞ rLkþký, would take human birth upon the earth and su sLk S¼u Wå[hu, íku Ãkk{u ÃkË rLkðkoý. would be harassed by the demons. rºk÷kuf{kt íkÃkkMkíkkt,Lkkðu LkkhkÞý Lkk{ íkwÕÞ, Dharmdev and Bhaktimata begged pardon ÃkríkíkLku ÃkkðLk fhðk, yu Au rLkrÄ y{qÕÞ. of angry Durvasa Muni on behalf of all and rnhÛÞfrþÃkw ©ðýu Mkkt¼éÞku, LkkhkÞý Lkk{Lkku LkkË, requested to do some remedy. Acceding to the request, Durvasa Muni told them that, Shree Chanting the name of Bhagwan is Narnarayandev would take birth as son of equivalent of performing Darshan of Bhagwan. Dharmdev and Bhaktimata and He would There is one incident of Ajamil Brahmin in protect all of you from the demons. Accordingly, ‘Bhagwat’. Ajamil was a very cruel and crooked Shree Narnarayandev asked all Rishis and person. But he chanted the name of Bhagwan Munis to take human birth and asked Uddhavji ardently and all his sins were burnt and he got to go to earth and also told that the Dharma freedom from Yamaduta. This is the importance which would be established upon the Earth of chanting the name of Bhagwan ardently. would be recognized in his name only. Even the great robbers like Valiya got Dear devotees, how many efforts were emancipation in his life, who started chanting required to be made by Uddhavji and great the name of Bhagwan as advised by great Muni Rishis and Munis to please Shree Naradji and got himself transformed from Valiya Narnarayandev. But we have got our Shree Robber into great Rishi Valmiki. The person Narnarayandev very easily and without any who did not know what is going to happen in his efforts. This is so because our Shree life after three days became a Trikalgyani (a Narnarayandev is very benevolent. Shree person who is capable to know about Bhut, Narnarayandev has been performing Tapa for Bhavishya and Vartaman). all of us. Being the King of Bharatkhand it is not Similarly Rama Bhangi of Kashi got required for him to perform any Tapa. But just attracted towards the princess Rama of the as parents work hard and perform their duties King of Kashi but while performing Tapa ardently for their children out of love and chanting the name of Bhagwan Shree Rama on affection and whatever they earn, they spend the bank of river Ganga, his attraction shifted everything for their children only. Similarly our from the princess Rama towards Bhagwan Shree Narnaryandev has also been performing Shree Rama and later on he became the great Tapa in Badrikashram and has been yielding its saint Tulsidas. Tulsidasji has stated at one good fruits to all of us. So let us become ardent place: devotees of Shree Narnarayandev and remain íkw÷Mke íkkíku ïÃk[ ¼÷k, ò {w¾{U nrhfk Lkk{. under strict directions then we would certainly Mkw¾ fu þeh Mke÷ Ãkzku, òu Lkk{ ÓËÞ Mku òÞ, get emancipation in our life. çkr÷nkhe ðku Ëw:¾fe, Ãk÷ Ãk÷ Lkk{ sÃkkÞ. • Prayaschit which is performed by chanting IMPORTANCE OF CHANTING THE NAME the name of Shree Hari is capable of destroying OF PARAMATMA all sins. A lamp removes all darkness of the - Sankhya Yogi Kundanba [Guru Sankhya room; similarly lamp in the form of chanting the Yogi Kanchanba(Meda)] name of Bhagwan removes all the darkness Oh devotees! By chanting the name of prevailing around the soul; now what is required Parmatma, all our sins get burnt. In sixth to maintain the light of the lamp through Vachanamrit of Loya Chapter, Shreeji Maharaj constant chanting of name of Shree Hari has stated that, we should perform Bhajan of otherwise there would be darkness again. Many name of ‘Shree Swaminarayan’ ardently; this devotees have got themselves saved from the would help us get rid of all the miseries of our worries of life by chanting the name of Bhagwan life. Sadguru Shatanand Swami has stated in Shree Swaminarayan. 46th Adhyay of ‘Satsangijivan’ that while So dear devotees! By chanting the name of attempting to absolve of any sins we should Bhagwan our soul is purified and we get rid of all chant the name of Bhagwan simultaneously sins of this life and also those of previous births MARCH-2013 • 20 and lives. May pray at the lotus like feet of our from their children, the parents keep mum and guru H.H. Shri Gadiwala that, mercy and watch everything with great pain in their hearts. benevolence of Shree Hari may continue to be But this would not be there in the families where granted to us. there are Samskaras of Satsang. Satsang • brings with it noble qualities like Sadachar Peace wherever there is Unity (noble conduct), Niti (ethics), Sanyam (self- - Sankhya Yogi Kolilaba (Surendranagar) discipline), Daya (mercy), Tyag (voluntary økwshkíke{kt “MktÃk íÞkt stÃk” renunciation), Prem (love), Lagani (affection), ‘Samp Tyna Jamp’ Nirmanipanu (humility), Ni:swarthipanu (Peach wherever there is Unity) is the famous (selflessness). However, these noble qualities saying in Gujarati language. For eternal peace would be there until there are unity and peace in human life, it is absolutely necessary to in the family. So what is required is to inculcate imbibe these golden words in our life. In Satyug, proper understanding among the family there was great unity in the families due to members for developing such noble qualities in sense of duty and devotion and sheer love and the life of each of them and to perform Satsang affection towards all other members of the so that there are happiness and peace in the family. Now this peace was of all type namely family and in the society and in the life of every physical, mental, economic, worldly, spiritual human being of this earth. etc. today’s human life is the world organized in the family system. Due to development of Even in the great epic ‘Ramayan’ Tulsidasji has stated: Science and Information and Technology, the “snkt MkwMktÃk íknk MktÃkrík LkkLkk countries of the world have come closer to one snkP fwMktÃk íknk rðÃkr¥k rLkËkLkk” another and the whole world has become just like one family. So wherever there would be peace, there In this Kaliyug, to attain and maintain mental would be all type of wealth and happiness. So peace in human life has become against the one should be alert enough to abstain himself onslaught and cultural attack of mobile, from quarrel which disturbs the peace of life. So Television, Video, Internet and Computer in day every devotee should behave as per the Model to day life. In search of peace, a man roams Code of Conduct prescribed by Bhagwan around here and there and gets himself prone Shree Swaminarayan in the pious ‘Shiksha and addicted to all types of bad habits and Patri’. So let us pray at the lotus like feet of addictions which ultimately leads a man Bhagwan Shree Swaminarayan that we may towards chronic diseases like diabetes, blood achieve peace and happiness through Unity in cancer, cancer etc. and his temperament our life. becomes irritative, proud, short tempered and quarrelsome. Under such circumstances, he either kills others and finds himself in the jail for OUR FUTURE FESTIVALS life-time imprisonment or he commits suicide Fagan Sud-15 Wednesday 27/03/2013 due to desolation and hopelessness. The only Shree Naranaryandev Jayanti Fuldolotsav by solution or remedy to all these problems of H.H. Shri Lalji Maharaj at 12.00 hours in our modern human life is Unity. Today we find that, Shree Swaminarayan temple, Kalupur, two real brothers are found quarrelling with Ahmedabad. each other for money and properties of their Fagan Vad-08 Wednesday 03/04/2013 parents. They divide the families through their Patotsav of Shree Revti Baldevji Harikrishna divisive mentality. Maharaj, Jetalpurdham. Only in those families, where there are Chaitra Sud-5 Monday 15/04/2013 Samskaras of Satsang there is Unity. Where Patotsav of Shree Ghanshya Maharaj Anjar there is unity in the family there would be Sattvik (Kachchh). meals and where there would be quarrel in the Chaitra Sud-9 Saturday 20/04/2013 family there would be Rajasik and Tamasik Prakatyotsav of Bhagwan Shree Swaminarayan, meals. In this Kaliyug, nobody is ready to make Ramnavmi, Samaiyo of Ahmedabad temple, compromise with anything. The parents cannot P a t o t s a v o f A k s h a r b h u v a n S h r e e rebuke their children, how rudely or improperly Balswaroop Ghanshyam Maharaj, they behave and act. Hearing the harsh words MARCH-2013 • 21 Celebration of Mahamahotsav of invocation of idol images in new temple of Jamfalwadi (Ramol) With the directions of H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj 1008 Shri Koshalendraprasadji Maharaj and the whole Dharmkul and with the News And Notes inspiration of Sadguru Swami Devprakashdasji and P.P. Swami (Mahant of Naranghat temple) From Shri and with the co-operation of all devotees of Narnarayandev Desh Jamfalwadi area, Mahamahotsav of our new Shree Swaminarayan temple, Jamfalwadi, was celebrated with great fervour and enthusiasm from 03/02/2013 to 07/02/2013. On this occasion, Shrimad Bhagwan Panchanh Parayan was organized with Sadguru Shastri Swami Ramkrishnadasji and S a d g u r u S h a s t r i S w a m i Chaitanyaswaroopdasji (Koeshwar Gurukul). of Sadguru Swami Devprakashdasji and P.P. Besides this, Pothiyatra, Shree Krishna Swami (Mahant of Naranghat temple) Shrimad Janmotsav, Pratistha Yagna, Akhand Dhoon, Satsangijivan Parayan was performed in the Rukshamani Vivah, Freedom from Addiction pious company of H.H. Shri Lalji Maharaj from Campaign, Nagaryatra, Annakut Darshan, 05/02/2013 to 09/02/2013 on the occasion of Shobha Yatra etc. programmes were also Patotsav of Shree Swaminarayan temple organized and celebrated with great fervour V a r s o d a . S a d g u r u S h a s t r i S w a m i and enthusiasm. Ramkrishnadasji (Koteshwar) was the H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj had graced the spokesperson of this Parayan. concluding ritual of Kath and had blessed all With the co-operation of all the devotees and the devotees and had granted divine Darshan. Haribhaktas, Parayan as well as Shakotsav H.H. Shri Gadiwala had also graced the were celebrated with great fervour and occasion and had blessed all the ladies enthusiasm. On the last day H.H. Shri Lalji devotees. On this occasion, saints from Maharaj graced the temple and performed various places had also arrived. On this Annakut Aarti and celebrated Shakotsav. occasion Sadgru Mahant Shastri Swami During the Parayan many saints from various Harikrishnadasji (Mahant of Kalupur temple), places had arrived. On this occasion Sadgru Mahant Swami Laxmanjivandasji of Approach Mahant Shastri Swami Harikrishnadasji temple, Brahmchari Swami Rajeshwaranandji, (Mahant of Kalupur temple), Mahant Swami Swami Nilkanthcharandsji, Shastri Swami Laxmanjivandasji of Approach temple, Anandpriyadasji (Mahadevnagar), Swami Brahmchari Swami Rajeshwaranandji, J.P. Harikrishnadasji (approach), Swami Swami, Madhav Swami, Divyaprakash Swami Kunjviharidasji, Swami Dharmswaroopdasji, had arrived. At last H.H. Shri Lalji Maharaj Swami Divyaprakashdasji and Madhav Swami blessed all the devotees. Services of Darbar h a d a r r i v e d . S h a s t r i S w a m i Haribhaktas was very inspirational on this Vishwaswaroopdasji had conducted the occasion. (Sadguru Shastri Swami Sabha. Devotees of the nearby area had Chaitanyaswaroopdasji, Koteshwar Gurukul) availed the benefit of this grant Mahotsav. st Services of Shree Narnarayandev Yuvak Celebration of 31 Patotsv of Shree Mandal was inspirational during the Mahotsav. Swaminarayan temple, Gavada ( S a d g u r u S h a s t r i S w a m i With the directions of H.H. Shri Acharya Chaitanyaswaroopdasji) Maharaj 1008 Shri Koshalendraprasadji Parayan in Varsoda on the occasion of Maharaj and the whole Dharmkul and with the inspiration of Sadguru Swami Devprakashdasji Patotsav and P.P. Swami (Mahant of Naranghat temple), With the directions and blessings of H.H. 31st Patotsav of Shree Swaminarayan temple, Shri Acharya Maharaj and with the inspiration

MARCH-2013 • 22 Gavada and invocation of the idol images of Balchanddas Kothari family through devotee Shree Hanumanji Maharaj and Shree Ganpatiji Shri Purushottambhai, Amrutbhai, Akshar Maharaj was celebrated with great fervour and Nivasi Gopalbhai Jayantibhai, Ramshbhai had enthusiasm from 13/02/2013 to 17/02/2013. rendered the services as thee host of Patotsav D u r i n g t h i s M a h o t s a v , S h r i m a d and Mahamahotsav. Akshar Nivasi devotee Satsangijivan Parayan, Janmotsav of Shree Shri Bhaidas Parsottamdas (Mahalaxmi family) Ghanhyam Maharaj, Satsang Sabha in 31 through Dahyabhai, Kantibhai, Ambalalbhai villages, 31 hour Akhand Dhoon, Hariyag with and Govindbhai family had rendered the 31 host devotees, Campaign of freedom from services as the host of Katha. Moreover, many addiction, Medical Camp, Blood Donation devotees of the villages had also rendered their Camp, Exhibition, Annakut, writing of more than valuable services on this divine occasion. 31 lacs Shree Swaminarayan Mahamantra, Saints from Ahmedabad, Muli, Junagadh, Nagar Yatra, Abhishek, Shobhayatra, cultural Vadtal had arrived on this occasion. On this programme at night, campaign of cleanliness of o c c a s i o n S w a m i V r a j b h u s h a n d a s j i , the village etc. programmes were also Divyaprakash Swami, Madhav Swami, Muni organized. Sadguru Shastri Swami Swami, Rushi Swami, Dharmswaroop Swami, Ramkrishnadasji (Koteshwar) was the Nilkanth Swami, Balu Swami had made all other spokesperson of the Parayan. Simultaneously, arrangements. Sadguru Shastri Swami series of lectures was also organized on this Chaitanyaswaroopdasji had conducted the occasion. S a b h a . ( S a d g u r u S h a s t r i S w a m i On the first day, saints performed Deep- Chaitanyaswaroopdasji, Koteshwar Gurukul) pragatya and inaugurated the Exhibition. Celebration of 5th Patotsav of Bhimpura Thereafter, the host devotees performed (Mansa) poojan of Pothi and Samhita-pathi Poothi. With the directions and blessings of H.H. While initiating the Katha, Sadguru Shastri Shri Acharya Maharaj and the whole Dharmkul Swami Harikrishnadasji (Mahant of Kalupur) and with the inspiration and guidance of and Shastri Swami Narayanvallabhdasji Sadguru Swami Devprakashdasji and Sadguru blessed all the devotees in their inspirational Shastri P.P. Swami (Mahant of Naranghat speeches. On the third day, H.H. Shri Mota temple), 5th Patotsav of Shree Ram-Shyam- Maharaj graced the Sabha in the morning Gh a n sh y a m M a h a ra j o f o u r Sh r e e session and blessed all the devotees and Swaminarayan temple, Bhimpura (Mansa) was celebrated grand Shakotsav simultaneously. th celebrated with great fervour and enthusiasm Thereafter, on 4 day, H.H. Shri Lalji Maharaj from 20/02/2013 to 24/02/2013. graced the occasion and blessed all the devotees. On this occasion, Shrimad Bhagwat Panchanh Parayan, Shree Krishna Janmotsav, In the sabha of the ladies devotees Satsang Sabha in more than 5 villages, organized on this occasion, H.H. Shri Gadiwala Samhita Path, ritual of establishing Kalash, 5 blessed all the ladies devotees. In the evening hour Akhand Dhoon, Campaign of freedom session of Katha, Pratistha Utsav of Shree from addiction, Medical Camp, Blood Donation Narnarayandev was celebrated with great Camp, writing of 5 lac Shree Swaminarayan fervour and enthusiasm and Nagaryatra of Mahamantra, Annakut, Abhishek, Rukshamani Shree Hanumanji Maharaj and Shree Ganpatiji Vivah, Shobha Yatra etc. programmes were Maharaj was also organized. On the last day, organized and celebrated with great fervour Shobhayatra of H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj was and enthusiasm. Sadguru Shastri Swami organized. Thereafter, ritual of invocation of the Ramkrishnadasji and Sadguru Shastri Swami idol images of Shree Hanumanji Maharaj and Chaitanyaswaroopdasji (Koteshwar) were the Shree Ganpatiji Maharaj was also performed. spokespersons of this Parayan. In the Sabha organized thereafter, the host devotees were offered the idol images of On the first day of Mahamahotsav H.H. Shri Prasadi as gift by H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj. At Mota Maharaj had graced the occasion along last H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj blessed all the with Sadguru Shastri Swami Harikrishnadasji of devotees. Ahmedabad temple and other saints. After Pothiyatra, Exhibition was inaugurated by Akshar Nivasi devotee Shri Valjibhai Mahant Swami and thereafter, H.H. Shri Mota

MARCH-2013 • 23 Maharaj had initiated the Katha. ‘ Shri Radhakrishnadev of our Shree Vandana’ and ‘Kirtan Ganga’ CD were released Swaminarayan temple, Singhali was for Satsang Samaj on this pious occasion. At celebrated with great fervour and enthusiasm last, after the inspirational speeches of the on Thursday 21/02/2013. on this occasion three saints, H.H. Shri Mota Maharaj had blessed all day Mahavishnu Yaag was organized from the devotees. 19/02/2013 to 21/02/2013. The occasion of concluding ritual was On 21/02/2013 grand Samaiyu of H.H. Shri graced by H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj and H.H. Acharya Maharaj was performed in the form of Shri Lalji Maharaj and H.H. Shri Gadiwala. After Shobhayatra. Thereafter, Mahapooja of the grand Shobhayatra, H.H. Shri Acharya Thakorji and Mahabhishek, Chhapanbhog Aarti Maharaj and H.H. Shri Lalji Maharaj had graced etc. were performed by H.H. Shri Acharya the Sabha Mandap to perform the concluding Maharaj. Thereafter H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj ritual of the Katha. H.H. Shri Gadiwala had had graced the Sabha organized on the granted the benefit of Darshan to the ladies occasion alongwith the saints. In the Sabha devotees. H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj had S a d g u r u S h a s t r i S w a m i blessed the host devotee Akshar Nivasi Purushottamprakashdasji, Sadguru Shasri Dalsangbhai Virsangbhai Chaudhary family Purnaprakashdasji from Dholka, Sadguru through Bharatbhai etc. family members. Shastri Swami Bhaktivallbhdasji, Swami Saints from places like Ahmedabad, Muli, Vishwaprakashdasji from Kalol, Shastri J.K. Junagadh, Vadtal had arrived on this occasion. Swami from Kalupur temple had delivered their On the third day, Harikeshav Shastri Swami inspirational services and at last H.H. Shri had graced the occasion and had blessed the Acharya Maharaj had blessed the whole host devotees. At last H.H. Shri Acharya Sabha. The whole arrangement of this divine Maharaj and H.H. Shri Lalji Maharaj had occasion was made by Sadguru Ram Swami blessed the devotees with inspirational (poojaro of Rangmahol). Services of the young speeches. devotees were very inspirational during this On the last day of Mahotsav, Sneh Milan of divine occasion. (Sadhu Vishwaprakashdasji, the whole Chaudhary (Anjana) Samaj was Jetalpurdham) organized by the host family which was Varshik Pratistha Tithi Mahotsav of Shree attended by large number of devotees of Prabha Hanumanji Maharaj Chaudhary family. Live-telecast of the whole With the directions and blessings of H.H. programme was made upon the website of the Shri Acharya Maharaj Varshik Pratisha Tithi temple, whose benefit was availed by the Mahotav of Shree Prabha Hanumanji Maharaj devotees residing abroad. i n v o k d b y o u r A a d i A c h a r y a S h r i In the organizing committee of this Ayodhyaprasadji Maharaj was celebrated with Mahamahotsav, many saints and devotees had great fervour and enthusiasm from 24/01/2013 rendered their valuable services. Vrajvallbh t o 2 8 / 0 1 / 2 0 1 3 . o n t h i s o c c a s i o n , Swami, Divyaprakash Swami, Madhav Swami, Panchdinatmak Shrimad Bhagwat Ekadash Kunj Swami, Rushi Swami, Vrajbhushan Skanda Parayan was organized with Sadguru Swami etc. saints had rendered their beautiful S h a s t r i G h a n s h y a m p r a k a s h d a s j i services. Services of Shree Narnarayandev (Jamiyatpurwala) as the spokesperson. Yuvak Mandal was very inspirational. (Sadguru On the first day, H.H. Shri Mota Maharaj Shastri Swami Chaitanyaswaroopdasji, graced this occasion and said that, “Sarangpu Koteshwar Gurukul). th of Ahmedabad Desh is Prabha Hanumanji Celebration of 15 Annual Patotsav of temple of Jamiyatpura.” on 25/01/2013, H.H. Shree Swaminarayan temple, Singhali Shri Mota Gadiwala had graced the occasion With the directions and blessings of H.H. and had blessed all the devotees and Shri Acharya Maharaj and the whole Dharmkul Haribhaktas. In the noon, Sundarkand was and with the inspiration and guidance of organized and on 27/01/2013 Mahabhishek of Sadguru Swami Atmaprakshdasji and Sadguru Hanumanji Maharaj was organized. In Hari- Shastri Purushottamprakashdasji of temple Mahapooja of Thakorji was performed Jetalpurdham, 15th Patotsav of Bhagwan Shree with Shodasopchar. Thereafter, Annakut aarti Swaminarayan, Shree Narnarayandev and and concluding ritual of Maruti Yagna were

MARCH-2013 • 24 performed. Concluding ritual of Katha of Maruti Celebration of 4th Pratistha Tithi Mahotsav Sabha Mandap was performed by Sadguru of Shree Swaminarayan temple, Bakrol Shastri Swami Shree Atmaprakashdasji With the directions and blessings of H.H. (Mahant of Jetalpurdham) and the host family. Shri Acharya Maharaj and the whole Dharmkul Saints from Jetalpurdham, Muli, Gadhpur, and with the inspiration of Sadguru Swami Himatnagar, Idar, Vali, Kalupur etc. places had Atmaprakshdasji and Sadguru Shastri Swami arrived on this divine occasion and had P u r u s h o t t a m p r a k a s h d a s j i o f delivered their inspirational speeches. The Jetalpurdham,Patotsav of deities of Shree Sabha was conducted by Shastri Bhaktinandan Swaminarayan temple, Bakrol was celebrated Swami (Jetalpurdham) and devotee Shri with great fervour and enthusiasm on Ghanshyambhai Patel (Uvarsad). The whole 17/02/2013. Grand Shobhayatra was also arrangement was made by Gavaiya organized in the village on this divine occasion. Chandraprakash Swami and Nilesh Bhagat. In the Sabha organized on the occasion, the (Shastri Vijayprakashdasji, Jamiyatpura) st children had performed the cultural Celebration of 1 Varshik Pratishtha Tithi programme. Thereafter, poojan of the saints of Mahotsav in village Uvarsad Jetalpur and Kalupur temples was performed With the directions and blessings of H.H. followed by the honour of the host devotees. Shri Acharya Maharaj and the whole Dharmkul Shastri Bhaktinandan Swami (Jetalpur) had and with the inspiration of Sadguru Swami performed Katha. Sadguru Shyamcharan Atmaprakshdasji, 1st Varshik Pratishtha Tithi Swami, SadguruBhakti vallabh Swami, Mahotsav of our Shree Swaminarayan temple, Sadguru Harijivan Swami, Sadguru Uvarsad was celebrated by our Future Acharya Baldevprasad Swami had also arrived on this H . H . S h r i L a l j i M a h a r a j 1 0 8 S h r i occasion. All the devotees had availed the Vrajendraprasadji Maharaj. This Mahotsav was benefit of Prasad. (Dineshbhai Keshabhai celebrated from 12/02/2013to 16/02/2013. on Patrel, Gordhanbhai Patel, Bakrol) t h i s o c c a s i o n P a n c h d i n a t m a k Satsang Sabha in Kocharab-Paldi Satsangibhushan Katha Parayan was With the directions and blessings of H.H. organized with Sadguru Shastri Swami Shri Acharya Maharaj and the whole Dharmkul Purushottamprakashdasji (P.P. Swami of and with the inspiration of Sadguru Swami Jetalpurdham). Atmaprakshdasji and Sadguru Shastri Swami On this divine occasion, H.H. Shri Gadiwala Purushottamprakashdasji of Jetalpurdham, and H.H. Shri Mota Gadiwala had arrived and Satsang Sabha was organized on Sunday had granted the benefit of divine Darshan and 17/02/2013 wherein Shastri Bhaktinandan blessings to the ladies devotees. On this Swami (Jetalpur) had performed Katha and had occasion, saints from Jamiyatpura, Jetalpur, n a r r a t e d t h e i m p o r t a n c e o f S h r e e Kalupur, Dholka, Naranpura, Kankaria, Mansa, Narnarayandev and Dharmkul. The whole Visnagar, Mahesana and Kalol had arrived. arrangement was made by Shastri Swami On the day of concluding ritual of Katha, Vishwaprakashdasji (Mahant of Kalol grand Swagat of H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj temple).(Sadguru Vishwaprakashdasji Mahant was performed. Thereafter, H.H. Shri Acharya of Kalol temple) Maharaj performed Abhishek of Shree Celebration of grand Shakotsav in temple Harikrishna Maharaj in temple of ladies (ladies) of Jetalpurdham devotees and performed poojan of the With the directions and blessings of H.H. spokesperson and Granthraj. Thereafter, nd Shri Acharya Maharaj and the whole Dharmkul announcement of 2 Patotsav and Patotsav of and with the inspiration of Sadguru Swami next 12 years was made and the host devotees Atmaprakshdasji and Sadguru Shastri Swami were honoured. Services of Yuak Mandal was Purushottamprakashdasji of Jetalpurdham and very inspirational. The whole Sabha was with the guidance of Sankhya Yogi Bachiba organized by Sadguru Bhaktinandan Swami and Sankhya Yogi Narmadaba, grand (Jetalpurdham). At last all the devotees had Shakotsav was organized and celebrated with availed the benefit of Prasad. (devotee Shri great fervour and enthusiasm. H.H. Shri Ghanshyambhai Patel and Chintu, Hardik, Gadiwala had graced the occasion and Shambhu) performed divine Vaghar of Shakotsav. On this

MARCH-2013 • 25 occasion Katha-Kirtan-Bhakti were also Swami and Yogi Swami had arrived. The whole performed. Services of all Sankhya Yogi ladies arrangement was made under the guidance devotees and other ladies devotees of Mahila and with the inspiration of Sadguru Shastri P.P. Mandal were very inspirational. About 3000 Swami (Mahant of Naranghat temple). Services ladies devotees had availed the benefit of of the devotees and Shree Narnarayandev Prasad and divine Darshan of Shakotsav. Yuvak Mandal were inspirational. (Shastri (Sankhya Yogi Vanitaba and Sankhya Yogi Swami Chaitanyaswaroopdasji, Koteshwar Sangitaba, Jetalpurdham) Gurukul) Celebration of Grand Shakotsav in New 4th Satsnag Sabha in Ghatlodiya- Ranip Chandlodiya-Sola area With the directions of H.H. Shri Acharya With the directions of H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj 1008 Shri Koshalendraprasadji Maharaj 1008 Shri Koshalendraprasadji Maharaj and H.H. Shri Mota Maharaj and the Maharaj, Satsang Sabha was organized in the whole Dharmkul and with the inspiration of evening from 4.30 to 7.30 hours on Sunday Sadguru Swami Devprakashdasji and P.P. 10/02/2013 in Unic City Homes (Common Plot) Swami (Mahant of Naranghat temple) grand Sola wherein Sadguru Shastri Swami P.P. Shakotsav was organized on 05/01/2013. H.H. Swami (Mahant of Naranghat temple) and Shri Mota Maharaj had graced this occasion, Shastri Swami Ramkrishnadasji (Koteshwar performed divine Vaghar of Shakotsav and Gurukul), Shastri Swami Chaitanya Swami, blessed the devotees. S h a s t r i S w a m i M a d h a v p r a s a d d a s j i On this occasion, Sadguru Mahant Shastri (Naranpura) had delivered their inspirational Swami Harikrishnadasji (Kalupur), Swami speeches on this occasion. Devotee Shri Purav Balswaroopdasji, Vraj Swami, Divyaprakash Patel had performed Kirtan-Bhakti. Swami, Sadguru Swami Dharmswaroopdasji Devotee Shri Kanubhai B. Patel, Shri and Shastri Vishwaswaroopdasji etc. saints Jayeshbhai G. Patel, Shri Natubhai patel and had arrived. About more than six thousand Shri Vinubhai Patel had rendered the services devotees and Haribhaktas availed the benefit of as the hosts of this Sabha. On every Sunday this divine Shakotsav wherein services of and on every Agiyaras, Satsang Sabha is Shree Narnarayandev Yuvak Mandal, New organized at night from 8.30 to 10.30 hours. On Ranip were very inspirational. (Shastri Swami the pious day of Vasant Panchmi and Shiksha Chaitanyaswaroopdasji, Koteshwar Gurukul) Patri Jayanti, Group Path of ‘Shiksha Patri’ was Shakotsav at village Kherol also performed. Devotee Shri Kantaben patel With the directions of H.H. Shri Acharya had performed poojan and aarti of ‘Shiksha Maharaj 1008 Shri Koshalendraprasadji Patri’. Maharaj, grand Shakotsav was celebrated with Place of Sabha :Shree Narnarayandev great fervour and enthusiasm by Shree Swaminarayan Satsang Mandal (Ghatlodiya- Narnarayandev Yuvak Mandal in our Shree Chandlodiya-Sola area), Ganesh Park Swaminarayan temple, Kherol on 27/01/2013. Complex Vibhag-1, I.D.Patel School Road, H.H. Shri Mota Maharaj had graced this Ghatlodiya, Ahmedabad. Rameshbhai Patel : occasion and had performed divine Vaghar of 9586422601. Shakotsav whose benefit was availed by the Celebration of 1st Patotsav at Vijapur of devotees of the nearby villages. Ladies Vajiba devotees had rendered their services of With the directions of H.H. Shri Acharya preparing the loaves. Sadguru Shastri Swami Maharaj 1008 Shri Koshalendraprasadji Chaitanyaswaroopdasji had explained the Maharaj and the whole Dharmkul and with the importance of Shakotsav in the Sabha inspiration of Sadguru Swami Devprakashdasji organized on the occasion. Thereafter, H.H. and P.P. Swami (Mahant of Naranghat temple) Shri Mota Maharaj had blessed all the grand Shakotsav was celebrated with great devotees. fervour and enthusiasm on Sunday On this occasion Madhav Swami (Prantij), 10/02/2013. Sukhnandan Swami, Vishwaswaroop Swami, H.H. Shri Mota Maharaj had graced the Madhavpriya Swami, Shastri Divyaprakashdas occasion and performed divine Vaghar of

MARCH-2013 • 26 Shakotsav and granted divine blessings to all Swai Laxmanjivandasji (approach) Shastri the devotees and haribhaktas. Devotees from Swami Chaitanyaswaroopdasji (Koteshwar), Balva, Visnagar, Gojariya and Kantha area had Shastri Swami Anandpriyadasji had delivered availed the benefit of this divine Shakotsav. In their inspirational speeches. the Sabha organized on the occasion, Shastri In the evening at 5.00 hours, H.H. Shri Swami Ramkrishnadasji, Shastri Chaitanya Acharya Maharaj had graced the occasion and Swami (Koteshwar Gurukul), Shastri performed aarti of Thakorji in the temples of Uttampriya Swami (Bhuj) had delivered their Haribhaktas and ladies devotees and then inspirational speeches. At last H.H. Shri Mota graced the sabha wherein divine Vaghar of Maharaj had blessed all the devotees and Shakotsav was performed whose divine Haribhaktas. The Sabha was conducted by Darshan was performed by all the devotees. Sadguru Shastri P.P. Swami (Mahant of The sabha was conducted by Shastri Swami Naranghat temple). Chaitanyaswaroopdasji. (Kothari Natubhai With the directions of H.H. Shri Acharya Patel) Maharaj and under the guidance of Shastri Celebration of Shakotsav at village Kuha Swami P.P. Swami (Naranghat temple) With the directions of H.H. Shri Acharya devotees Shri Popatbhai patel and Members of Maharaj 1008 Shri Koshalendraprasadji the Committee have been looking after the Maharaj and with the inspiration of Sadguru construction of Smruti temple on the place of Mahant Shastri Swami Guruprasaddasji of P r a s a d i o f A k s h a r M u k t a V a j i b a . Kankaria temple and Sadguru Shastri Swami (Mahendrabhai Patel, Hirawadi) Ananprasaddasji, grand Shakotsav was Celebration of Shakotsav in Shree celebrated with great fervour and enthusiasm at Swaminarayan temple, Vihar village Kuha. Devotee Shri Vinodbhai With the directions of H.H. Shri Acharya Bhalabhai Patel family had rendered the Maharaj 1008 Shri Koshalendraprasadji services as the host of this divine Shakotsav. Maharaj and H.H. Shri Mota Maharaj and with Besides Shakotsav, Mahapooja, Shobhayatra the inspiration of Sadguru Mahant Shastri and Satsang Sabha were also organized on this Swami Harikrishnadasji and Sadguru Bhandari divine occasion. Swami Suryaprakashdasji, grand Shakotsav H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj had graced this was celebrated with great fervour and occasion and grant Shobhayatra was enthusiasm on 09/01/2013 in our Shree organized. After performing concluding ritual of Swaminarayan temple, Vihar, whose benefit Mahapooja, H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj was availed by many devotees. Devotee Shri performed aarti of Thakorji and then graced the Natvarlal Manilal Patel through Yogeshbhai Sabha wherein performed divine Vaghar of and Ramkrishna (America) family had rendered Shakotsav whose divine Darshan was the services as the host of Shakotsav. In the performed by the devotees and Haribhaktas. Sabha organized on the occasion, Sadguru Saints from Ahmedabad, Naranpura, Jetalpur, Shastri Swami Narayanvallbhdasji (Vadnagar) Dholka, Sapawada and Kankaria had arrived and Shastri Swami Chaitnya Swami had on this occasion. delivered their inspirational speeches. At last H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj had graced the H.H. Shri Mota Maharaj had blessed the whole residence of the host devotee alongwith the Sabha. (Kothari) saints. The Sabha was conducted by Kothari Celebration of Shakotsav in Shree Shastri Swami Yagnaprakashdasji. (Shree Swaminarayan temple, Jadeshwar park, Narnarayandev Yuvak Mandal, Kuha) Mahadevnagar Shree Swaminarayan temple, Anandpura With the directions of H.H. Shri Acharya With the directions of H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj 1008 Shri Koshalendraprasadji Maharaj 1008 Shri Koshalendraprasadji Maharaj and H.H. Shri Mota Maharaj grand Maharaj, on 27/01/2013 grand Shakotsav was Shakotsav was celebrated with great fervour celebrated with great fervour and enthusiasm in and enthusiasm in our Shree Swaminarayan our Shree Swaminarayan temple, Anandpura temple, Jadeshwar Park, Mahadevnagar. On whose benefit was availed by more than one this occasion, Sadguru Mahant Shastri Swami thousand devotees. On this occasion Shastri Harikrishnadasji (Kalupur), Sadguru Mahant

MARCH-2013 • 27 Swami Siddheshwardasji and Shastri In the Sabha organized on the occasion, H.H. Madhvpriyadas from Siddhpur Gurukul had Shri Acharya Maharaj had blessed all the performed beautiful Katha-Varta. (Kothari, devotees and Haribhaktas. Anandpura) The devotee Shri Vasantiben Babubhai Celebration of divine Shakotsav in Shree patel (Naranpura) had rendered the services as Swaminarayan temple, Dahegam the chief host and devotee Shri Krishnaben With the directions of H.H. Shri Acharya Navibhai Mandaliya (Morbi) had rendered the Maharaj 1008 Shri Koshalendraprasadji services as the host of Rangotsav and the Maharaj and with the inspiration of Sadguru devotee Shri Dhirubhai Gordhanbha (Rajkot) Mahant Shastri Swami Harikrishnadasji had rendered the services as the host of poojan (Ahmedabad) and Sadguru Mahant Swami of Shree Shiksha Patri. Mahant Shwami Devprakashdasji (Naranghat) on Sunday Shyamsundardasji and saints and Mahant of 03/02/2013 grand Shakotsav was celebrated Ahmedabad, Surendranagar and Charadava with great fervour and enthusiasm in our Shree temples had delivered their inspirational Swaminarayan temple, Dahegam (Tebla Fali). speeches on this occasion. The Sabha was H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj had performed conducted by devotee Shri Shailendrasinh divine Vaghar whose benefit was availed by Zala. Kothari Swami Krishnavallbhdasji and devotees. In the Sabha organized on the J.K. Swami had rendered their beautiful occasion, saints had delivered their services in the kitchen. Kothari Vraj Swami had inspirational speeches and at last H.H. Shri made beautiful arrangements. (Shailendrasinh Acharya Maharaj had blessed the whole Zala) Sabha. Services of the ladies devotees were Padyatra from Dhrangadhra to Mulidham inspirational on this divine occasion. On this With the directions and blessings of H.H. occasion Brahmchari Rajeshwaranandji, J.P. Shri Acharya 1008 Shri Koshalendraprasadji Swami and J.K. Swami had arrived. (Kothari Maharaj and H.H. Shri Mota Maharaj and with Harshadbhai on behalf of all devotees) the inspiration of Sadguru Shastri Swami MULI DESH Bhaktiharidasji, about more than 350 Celebration of Samaiyo of Vasant Panchmi Haribhaktas and ladies devotees had of Shree Swaminarayan temple, Mulidham performed Padyatra from Dhrangadhra to With the directions and blessings of H.H. Mulidham. (Anilbhai Dudhrejiya) Shri Acharya Maharaj, Patotsav of Shree Invocation of the idol images at village Radhakrishnadev Harikrishna Maharaj of Umarada Mulidham was celebrated on the pious day of With the directions and blessings of H.H. Maha Sud-5 Vasant Panchmi with great fervour Shri Acharya Maharaj and with the inspiration of and enthusiasm in the pious company of H.H. Sadguru Mahant Swami Premjivandasji Shri Lalji Maharaj. (Surendranagar), ritual of invocation of the idol In the morning at 6.30 hours, H.H. Shri images was performed by H.H. Shri Acharya Acharya Maharaj and H.H. Shri Lalji Maharaj Maharaj on 12/02/2013 on renovation of Shree performed the ritual of Shodasopchar Swaminarayan temple. Mahabhishek in Vedic tradition. In the Sabha On this occasion, Shrimad Satsangijivan organized on the occasion poojan and reading Panchanh Parayan was organized from of Shree Shiksha Patri were performed. Janma 09/02/2013 to 13/02/2013 with Shastri Swami Jayanti of Sadguru Brahmanand Swami was Shreejiprakashdasji (Muli) as spokesperson. also celebrated. With the great efforts of Besides this Tridinatmak Hariyaag, Annakut Sadguru Mahant Swami Shyamsundardasji, etc. were also organized. Devotee Shri Khat-Muhurt of ‘Shree Radharkishna Dev Manubhai Patel had rendered the services as Entrance Gate’ was also performed by H.H. the host of the whole Mahotsav and devotee Shri Acharya Maharaj and H.H. Shri Lalji Shri Zaverbhai and Shri Maheshbhai Bhojani Maharaj on this occasion. At 12.00 hours (Morbi) had rendered the services as the host of H.H.Shri Acharya Maharaj and H.H. Shri Lalji Katha. H.H. Shri Gadiwala had also graced the Maharaj played Rangotsav with great fervour occasion to grant the benefit of divine Darshan and enthusiasm. On this occasion HH. Shri to the ladies devotees. Saints and Sankhya Gadiwala and H.H. Shri Raja had also arrived. Yogi ladies devotees from Ahmedabad, Muli,

MARCH-2013 • 28 Charadava, Dhrangadhra and Bopal had Janmangal Namavali, Thaal, Aarti, Nitya, arrived on this occasion. The whole Sabha and Niyam were performed. Grand Shakotsav was the host devotees were blessed by H.H. Shri also organized on this occasion whose benefit Acharya Maharaj. The Sabha was conducted was availed by more than 1800 devotees. H.H. by Sadguru Shastri Swami Premvallabhdasji. Shri Acharya Maharaj had blessed all the Under the guidance of Kothari Swami devotees. Here on every Saturday, Satsang Krishnavallbhdasji Kothari Ghanshyambhai Sabha is organized wherein Group aarti of and Shree Narnarayandev Yuvak Mandal had Hanumanji is performed. (Kanubhai Patel) rendered beautiful services. (Shailendrasinh Shree Swaminarayan temple, Hyustan Zala) Texas Invocation of the idol images in Shree With the directions and blessings of H.H. Swaminarayan temple (Dhanala-Halwad) Shri Acharya 1008 Shri Koshalendraprasadji With the directions and blessings of H.H. Maharaj and H.H. Shri Mota Maharaj and with Shri Acharya 1008 Shri Koshalendraprasadji t h e i n s p i r a t i o n o f P o o j a r i S w a m i Maharaj, invocation of the idol images of Shree Ghanshyamcharandas and Gavaiya Swami Swaminarayan temple, Dhanala was Divyaprakashdas, festival of Uttarayan was celebrated with great fervour and enthusiasm. celebrated with great fervour and enthusiasm in On this occasion, Shrimad Satsangijivan our Shree Swaminarayan temple, Hyustan. Saptah Parayan was organized from On the pious day of Posh Sud Poonam on 26/01/2013 to 01/02/2013 with Sadguru Shastri 28th January, a Sabha was organized wherein Swami Dharmvallbhdasji (Bopal) and Shastri saints had performed Katha-Varta and had Nilkanthcharandasji (Muli). On 01/02/2013 narrated Leela Charitra of Shreeji Maharaj and H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj performed the ritual importance of Dharmkul. of invocation of the idol images. In the Sabha, On the pious day of Vasant Panchmi and H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj blessed the whole Shiksha Patri Jayant reading and poojan of Sabha whose benefit was availed by thousands Shiksha Patri and grand Shakotsav were of devotees for more than seven days. organized on 09/02/2013 wherein ladies (Anilbhai Dudhrejiya) devotees had rendered their beautiful services Shree Swaminarayan temple, Ratanpar of preparing loaves. Gavaiya Swami had With the directions and blessings of H.H. performed Kirtan-Bhakti. With the directions of Shri Acharya Maharaj and H.H. Shri Mota H.H. Shri Lalji Maharaj Bal Yuva Shibir was Maharaj and with the inspiration of Sadguru organized wherein about more than 100 Swami Narnarayandasji, grand Shakotsav was students had participated. (Ramesh Patel) celebrated with great fervour and enthusiasm. I.S.S.O. Peoria, Chapter On this occasion Sadguru Shastri Swami With the directions and blessings of H.H. Narayanprasaddasji, Shastri Hariom Swami Shri Acharya 1008 Shri Koshalendraprasadji (Mahant of Naranpura temple), Premswaroop Maharaj and H.H.Shri Mota Maharaj, beautiful S w a m i , S w a m i K r i s h n a v a l l b h d a s j i Satsang Sabha was organized in our I.S.S.O. (Surendranagar) and Yogi Swami had Peoria Chapter. delivered their inspirational speeches. K.P. Here Satsang Sabha is organized on every Swami, Bhanu Swami, Muktaswaroopdas and Saturday in the evening from 6.00 to 8.00 hours. Kalu Bhagat had rendered their valuable The learned Kathakar of Ahmedabad Sadguru services. (Kothari) Shastri Swami Nirgundasji had granted the OVERSEAS STATSANG NEWS benefit of Satsang and Mahapooja to the Washington D.C. I.S.S.O. devotees. On 26th January, H.H. Shri Acharya With the directions and blessings of H.H. Maharaj graced Chicago and devotees of S h r i A c h a r y a M a h a r a j 1 0 0 8 S h r i Peoria had availed the benefit of Darshan and Koshalendraprasadji Maharaj and H.H. Shri blessings. Mota Maharaj, Satsang Sabha was organized On 16th February, Sabha was organized at on 5th, 12th, 19th and 26th January in our Shree the residence of the devotee Shri Govindbhai Swaminarayan temple, Washington D.C. Patel and poojan, archan and reading of Wherein reading of Vachanamrit, Kirtan Bhakti, Shiksha Patri was performed. In the Sabha about 150 devotees of Chicago and MARCH-2013 • 29 Blowmington cities had participated. Shri Acharya 1008 Shri Koshalendraprasadji (Ramesh T. Patel) Maharaj and the whole Dharmkul, activity of Vasant Panchmi - Shiksha Patri Jayanti in Satsang is going on very well in our Shree Shree Swaminarayan temple, Colonia Swaminarayan temple, Chicago. In this month, With the directions and blessings of H.H. Satsang Sabha, Shakotsav, Vasant Panchmi, Shri Acharya 1008 Shri Koshalendraprasadji Shiksha Patri Jayanti etc. were celebrated with Maharaj and H.H. Shri Mota Maharaj and in the great fervour and enthusiasm. Grand pious company of Shastri Swami Nirgundasji Shakotsav was also celebrated with great joy. and Mahant Swami Gyanprakashdasji, Vasudev Swami from Cleveland and Poojari Satsang Sabha was organized on the pious day Shantiprakash Swami had narrated the Katha of Vasant Panchmi – Shiksha Patri Jayanti. of Shakotsav. In the evening all Haribhaktas Poojari Swami had offered the divine Darshan had performed poojan-archan of Shiksha Patri of Thakorji as if Shree Ghanshyam Maharaj and had performed Group Path of 212 Shloka has been writing Shiksha Patri. Mahant Swami along with the saints. (Vasant Trivedi) and Gyanprakash Swami had performed poojan of Shiksha Patri and Shastri Swami About Khandgras Chandragrahan Nirgundasji had performed divine aarti. In the Sabha, Shastri Swami had narrated erudite Chaitra Sud-15 Thursday 25/04/2013 Katha on Shiksha Patri. At last books were Khandgras Chandragrahan. (Lunar offered in Prasadi as gift to the devotees in the Eclipse) Sabha. Ladies devotees had performed poojan of Shiksha Patri and had performed Janmangal • Vedh Noon at 4.22 hours Path. (Pravin Shah) • Sparsh Night at 1.21 hours Shree Swaminarayan temple, Chicago • Moksha Night at 1.38 hours With the directions and blessings of H.H. AKSHARVAAS Soja– Devotee Shri Amrutbhai Kachardas Modi (age 86 years) (father of the devotee Shri Arvindbhai and Shri Sureshbhai) passed away to Akshardham on 05/01/2013 while chanting the name of Shree Hari. Kera (Kachchh)- Devotee Dhanjibhai Jadva Savani [father of the devotee Shri Jethalal Savani (London)] passed away to Divine Abode of God on 22/02/2013 while chanting the name of Shreeji Maharaj. Ahmedabad- Devotee Shri Chandiraben Navinbhai Marfatiya [wife of the devotee Shri Navinbhai Ranchhodlal Marfatiya (at present America) the younger brother of devotee Shri Rameshbhai Ranchhodlal Marfatiya (Jorangwala) (at present America)] passed away to Akshardham while chanting the name of Shri Hari. Ahmedabad– Devotee Shri Chandrakantbhai Gordhandas Soni (Savliwala) passed away to Divine Abode of God on 31/01/2013 while chanting the name of Shri Hari. Mitli (Tal. Khambhat)- Devotee Shri Abhsinh Devisinh Raol (age 78 years) passed away to Akshardham on 03/01/2013 while chanting the name of Shri Hari. North Carolina (America)– Devotee Shri Alpaben and devotee Shri Hemangkumar Mahendrabhai Patel [daughter and brother-in-law of devotee Shri Vishnubhai Narandas Patel (Mansawala) passed away to Divine Abode of God on 09/07/2012 while chanting the name of Shreeji Maharaj. Ahmedabad– Devotee Shri Dahyabhai Maganlal Patel (Itadarawala) [brother-in-law of devotee Shri Vishnubhai Patel (Mansa)] passed away to Divine Abode of God on 08/01/2013 while chanting the name of Shreeji Maharaj. Santrampur (Panchmahal)– Devotee Shri Hiralal L. Patel (retired typist) passed away to Divine Abode of God on 10/02/2013 while chanting the name of Shreeji Maharaj.

Editor, Printer and Publisher : Mahant Shastri Swami Harikrishnadasji for Shree Swaminarayan Temple Kalupur, Ahmedabad. Printed at Shree Swaminarayan Printing press, Shree Swaminarayan Temple, Kalupur, Ahmedabad () Pin-380 001 and Published at and for Shree Swaminarayan Temple, Kalupur, Ahmedabad (GUJARAT) Pin-380 001.

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