Official News-letter from Shri Narnarayandevdesh Diocese Vol : 9 • No : 107 MARCH-2016

Founded By H.H. Acharya Maharaj 1008 Shri Tejendraprasadji Maharajshri, Shri Narnarayandev Diocese. Shri Swaminarayan Museum Narayanpura, Ahmedabad-13. Phone : 27489597 • Fax : 27419597 C O N T E N T S H.H. Mota Maharajshri Phone : 27499597 01. EDITORIAL 04 www.swaminarayanmuseum.com 02. APPOINTMENT DIARY OF 05 With the directions of H.H. ACHARYA MAHARAJSHRI Shri Narnarayandev Pithadhipati H.H. 1008 Shri 03. SHIKSHAPATRI 07 Koshalendraprasadji Maharajshri 04. MURTI 08 Controlling Editors & Publishers Shastri Swami Harikrishnadasji 05. ÜëUc‡¢ S¢ï±¢ }¢éçv¼E x¢}²¼¢}¢ì 11 MAHANT SHRI SWAMINARAYAN TEMPLE 06. EXPERIENCING VASANT RITU BY FOLLOWING 13 Kalupur, Ahmedabad-1. Phone : 22132170, 22136818 THE DIRECTIONS OF SHIKSHA PATRI Karbhari office : 22121515. Fax : 22176992. 07. SHREE SWAMINARAYAN MUSEUM 15 www.swaminarayan.info Editorial & Subscription Address 08. SATSANG BALVATIKA 17 Shri Swaminarayan 09. BHAKTI-SUDHA 19 Shri Swaminarayan Temple Kalupur, AHMEDABAD-1 (INDIA) 10. NEWS 21 For a Change in Address : E-mail : [email protected]

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March-2016 • 03 With a view to grant Kalyan and Moksha to this soul our Sarvoparti Shree Swaminarayan Bhagwan has developed and propagated the divine tradition of Utsavs. From Hari-Mandir of Desh-Videsh upto the temples with dome, Utsavs and Samaiya are being organized and celebrated constantly. In number of temples, Murti Pratistha, Patotsav, Pancham, Dasabdi, Rajat-Suvarna Jayanti, Shatabdi, Shatamrut, Dwishatabdi etc. Utsavs are being celebrated. The main purpose of all these Utsavs is that if any person has performed divine Darshan of such Utsav, has listened to the pious words of blessings of H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj, H.H. Shri Mota Maharaj and H.H. Shri Lalji Maharaj and if any of these is reminded to him at the end time of his life, he would certainly remember Shree Hari and would get emancipation in his life. Recently, many Utsavs have been celebrated. Murti Pratistha rituals have been performed in many newly constructed temples such as Leelapur (Muli Desh), Vaktapur, Diyodar, Modasa, Dhansura (Banaskantha) and Rangotsav of Muli temple, Patotsav Mahotsav of Anjali, temple, Patdi temple, Naranpura temple, Torda temple, Naranghat temple, 194th Patotsav Mahotsav of Shree Narnarayandev in Shree Swaminarayan temple, Kalupur, Ahmedabad and 5th Sthapana Din of Shree Swaminarayan Museum were celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm. It is really rare and divine benefit to avail the benefit of rendering services as hosts of such Utsavs, but to render our services as volunteer during such Utsavs is also equally divine benefit. The smallest services like cleaning the ground, utensils being used by the saints are also great services in themselves. So dear devotees, if we receive any service, we should not consider it as small or trivial service and we should render such little service with great enthusiasm and with utmost faith and affection as that will earn the pleasure of Shreeji Maharaj and Dharmkul granting us divine blessings. Editor Mahant Swami Shastri Swami Harikrishnadas

March-2016 • 04 1. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple Laloda (Idar) on the occasion of Patotsav. Appointment Diary of 2. Graced village Nikol. 3. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Leelapur H.H. Acharya Maharaj 1008 (Muli Desh) on the occasion of Murti Pratistha. 5. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Modpar (Morbi) on the occasion of Shakotsav. Shri Koshalendraprasadji 6. Graced village Balva. 7. G r a c e d S h r e e S w a m i n a r a y a n t e m p l e , Maharajshri Gandhinagar (Sector-2). 9. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Vaktapur (Prantij) on the occasion of Murti Pratistha. (FEBRUARY-2016) 12. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Muli on the occasion of Samaiyo-Patotsav- Rangotsav of Vasant Panchmi. 13. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Uvarsad on the occasion of Katha-Patotsav. 15. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Torda on the occasion of Patotsav. 16. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Dhansura on the occasion of Murti Pratistha. 17. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Naranpura, Bareja and Saraspur on the occasion of Patotsav. 18. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Patdi (Muli Desh) on the occasion of Shatabdi Patotsav. 19. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Rauta (Rajasthan). 20. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Bhimpura on the occasion of Patotsav. 21. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Anjali on the occasion of Patotsav. In the noon Graced Mumbai-Thana on the occasion of Satsang-Sabha. 22. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Mokhasan on the occasion of Patotsav. 23. G r a c e d S h r e e S w a m i n a r a y a n t e m p l e , Madhavgadh on the occasion of Patotsav. 24. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Mahesana on the occasion of Patotsav. 25. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Unjha on the occasion of Khat Muhurt. 26-27. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Naranghat on the occasion of Dashabdi Patotsav. 27-28. at Night Graced Shree Swaminarayan Vishranti Bhuvan (run by Bhuj (Kachchh) temple) at Wille Parle on the occasion of Patotsav. 29. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Morbi on the occasion of Patotsav.

March-2016 • 05 Shikshapatri The Epistle of Precepts (based on Shatanand’s Shikshapatri Arthadipika) By Pravin S. Varsani SPECIAL DHARMAS OF WIDOWS (163- should be punished by Kings accordingly. 172) Similarly, after the death of her husband, the men of the family should not take the Text – 167 woman’s gifts and jewellery. Those who have just sufficient wealth for lifetime maintenance, shall Text – 168 not offer it even for religious purposes; They shall take a meal only once a they may do so if they have surplus to day and sleep on the floor. They shall their requirements. never deliberately look at any creature Shatanand clearly stipulates that it is in the act of coition. not one’s Dharma to put themselves into She should eat only once a day difficulty like this. They should donate their (except for days of Upavaas when she wealth only if they have suplus wealth with should observe a full day fast). She should sufficient savings. Thus to act contrary to never sleep on a raised platform, but this is breaking one’s duty which is sinful. should sleep on the floor. She should also Manu explains that a woman’s wealth never look at animals in the act of coition, (Stri-dhana) consists of six types- as it will immediately cause turmoil in the Katyayan explains these in more detail: ‘(1) mind, weakening it and thus destroying Adhyagni – money or gifts (jewelleary etc.) their Brahmcharya Vrata. Shaubhari Rishi given to her during the wedding ceremony. saw two fishes in such act and immediately (2) Adhyavanik – money or gifts given to a faced degradation. woman at the time of leaving one’s parental Text – 169 home and going to her in-law’s / husband’s home (Saare). (3) Prittidatta- money given They shall never dress themselves affectionately to a woman when she greets like a married women, nun or female her in-laws by touching their feet. (4) recluse, nor dress in a manner which is Bhratrudhan – money or gifts given to the contrary to the custom of the place and woman by her brothers (Rakshabandan their family. etc.), (5) Matrudhan – by her mother and (6) Thus a widowed woman should Pitrudhan – given by her father.’ always dress in accordance with that which These things are what a woman’s is conductive to her status etc. Shatanand (wife’s) wealth consists of. The only right a has not gone into any greater depth here. husband has to such wealth is the right to (as it is self-explanatory). protect it. Thus he should never take her Text – 170 money but should strive to protect it. They shall never associate with, nor Therefore, such Stri-dhana should never even touch women who practice be used by the husband for purposes of abortion, nor shall they indulge in or donation. listen to amorous talks regarding males. Yagnavalkya explains that such Touching somebody who practices wealth is hers and should not be taken abortion is prohibited due to the adulterous away by her husband’s family members. nature of that person which is sinful. Also Those men who do are thieves and so March-2016 • 06 association with such a person is destructive force than that of lust. For this inappropriate as the bad qualities of such a reason even a mother and son should not person can be passed on to a widow remain in a secluded place together. leading to her destruction and ill people. Text – 172 Nor should she listen to amorous talks about males. Such Shringaar Rasa is of They shall never play Holi nor put two types – (1) Sanyoga and (2) on ornaments, nor dress themselves Vipralambha. The first is speaking of such with transparent clothes interwoven lustful or amorous things in a crowd of with gold or similar metals. people and the second is listening to such Playful games during Holi of throwing talks. Thus a widow should refrain from coloured powder should be avoided by both activities as to act contrary to this widows. Similarly they should never wear again leads to a breakdown in her rich clothing or ornaments. She should not Brahmcharya Vrata. wear Kumkum, Kajara etc., which are appropriate for a married woman. Text – 171 Alternatively, rich clothing – either silken or Except in emergency, young golden nor bangles made from Sankha widows shall never stay in a secluded should be worn by a widow as they too are place with young men, even though they appropriate for a Suvasini Stree. All such may be closely related. acts are stipulated in order to uphold her Jaimini Smruti explains the fact that in duty of renunciation and deep devotion for youthful age, there is no other stronger God.

Details about the ownership of magazine ‘Shri Swaminarayan’ FORM-IV (See Rule : 8) 1. Place of Publication : Shri Swamianarayan Mandir, Kalupur, Ahmedabad-1. 2. Periodicity of thePublication : Monthly 3. Printer’s Name : Mahant Shastri Swami Harikrishnadasji Nationality : Indian Address : Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Kalupur, Ahmedabad-1. 4. Publisher’s Name : Mahant Shastri Swami Harikrishnadasji Nationality : Indian and Address : Shri Swamianarayan Mandir, Kalupur, Ahmedabad-1. 5. Editor’s Name : Mahant Shastri Swami Harikrishnadasji Nationality : Indian Address : Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Kalupur, Ahmedabad-1. 6. Name : H.H. Acharya Maharaj 1008 Shri Koshalendraprasadji Maharajshri of Shri Narnarayandev Peeth. Nationality : Indian Address of owner of Shri Swamianarayan Mandir, Kalupur, Ahmedabad-1. the Publication I, Shastri Swami Harikrishnadasji do hereby declare that the details declared above are true as per my information and understanding. Sd/- Shastri Swami Harikrishnadasji Mahant Shri Swamianarayan Mandir, Kalupur, Ahmedabad-1.

March-2016 • 07 MURTI - Sadhu Purushottamprakashdas (Jetalpurdham)

In 16th Adhyaya of 2nd Skanda of they should cherish Murti of Bhagwan Shrimad Bhagwat Mahapuran, Pruthvidevi while doing everything i.e. while eating, has stated to Dharma that thirty nine drinking, taking bath, washing clothes, qualities reside in Swaroop of Bhagwan. walking, sitting etc. (Gadhada First-21) These thirty nine qualities are : Satya, While doing everything one should Pavitrata, Daya, Kshama, Tyag, Santosh, study to keep his Vruti in swaroop of Saralata, Sham, Dam, Tapa, Samta, Bhagwan (Gadhada First-22) Nitiksha, Uprati, Shastravichar, Gyan, One may perform Bhajan of Bhagwan Vairagya, Aaishwarya, Virata, Tej, Bal, while cherishing Murti of Bhagwan in his Smruti, Swatantra, Kaushal, Kranti, soul. (Gadhada First-23) Dharya, Komalata, Nirbhikta, Vinay, Shil, To stare at Murti of Bhagwan while Sahas, Utsah, Bal, Saubhagya, cherishing it in our heart is Antardrasti. Gambhirata, Sthirta, Aastikta, Kirti, (Gadhada First-49) Gaurav, Nirhamkarpanu. And these There are eight types of Murtis, which qualities are not away from Bhagwan even Parmeshwar has directed and offered to for a moment. Kalikaal has broken three be worshipped and He resides in this Charan of Dharma and therefore qualities Murtis. (Gadhada First-68) of Dharma have been preserved on the Divine pleasure which is there in a basis of Murti of Bhagwan and Dharma has skin hair of Bhagwan cannot be measured sought shelter of Bhawan. Therefore, while even with all the pleasures of Anantkoti cherishing utmost faith towards Murti of Brahmand put together as all these Bhagwan and swaroop of Bhagwan, one pleasure are not equivalent to an iota of should cherish Dharma in his heart. In Divine pleasure of Bhagwan. (Sarangpur- Gadhada Middle-16 Shreeji Maharaj has 01) stated as under : The words of Gopanganas towards Murti of Bhagwan is Chinta-tulya, Bhagwan as narrated in Bhagwat are that those who think about anything while from the day lotus like feet of Bhagwan is cherishing Murti in heart, they would get touched, all worldly pleasures appear like those things. (Gadhada First-1) poison. (Sarangpur-5) Those who have not received Wherever Bhakta goes under the swaroop of Bhagwan, behaves as if he is directions of Bhagwan, Murti of Bhagwan Agyani and that there would not be his also goes with Bhakta. Like Bhakta, emancipation. (Gadhada First-14) Bhagwan also cannot live without His Those who are devotees of Bhagwan,

March-2016 • 08 B h a k t a . 16) (Kariyani-12) The centre of B h a g w a n Akshardham is at allows His Murti the place where to be shown as there is Murti of per His wish and P u r u s h o t t a m . grants Light as (Gadhada Middle- required. (Loya- 42) 04) Those who D e v o t e e have firm faith in who performs S w a r o o p o f B h a k t i o f Bhagwan are said Bhagwan with to be performing c l e a r N i r v i k a l m understanding Samadhi whether that Bhagwan is t h e y a r e everywhere but it p e r f o r m i n g is His desire that Samadhi or not. it may not be (Vadtal-01) shown to me and Those who thereby believes shall perform My him to be very Darshan and shall much obliged is listen to My Varta r e a l l y G y a n i . shall get rid of all (Loya-07) sins and would If one engages in thousand other get Param Pada. (Vadtal-12) activities without knowing importance of The divine pleasure which we get by Murti of Bhagwan, He would not be able to performing Chintavan of Murti of Bhagwan cherish Murti of Bhagwan continuously. is nowhere in the whole world and in Chaud (Gadhada Middle-04) Lok. (Vadtal-16) One should remain under the Vachans Those who perform Chintvan of Murti of Bhagwan as per his capacity and should of Parmeshwar would not be enticed cherish utmost faith in divine powers of towards the causes of Panch-vishay Murti of Bhagwan. (Gadhada Middle-09) Janma-Maran (Birth-Death). (Ahmedabad- One Murti of Bhagwan which is very 03) bright is Murti of Ghanshyam and despite If we cherish all these Vachans of tremendous light it does not appear dark Shreeji Maharaj in our heart, the essence but very bright. This Murti is dwibhuj (having we get from it is that, we should cherish two hands) and two Charan (two legs) and it utmost affection towards Murti of Bhagwan is very attractive. (Gadhada Middle-13) having all Sadgunas. And this is the only Those who cherish utmost faith in means wherein Siddhi of all other means is Murti of Bhagwan and cherish Swaroop of included. Bhagwan in their hearts, Dharma also Therefore, one should stand up for a resides in their hearts. ( Gadhada Middle- while in front of Murti of Bhagwan. One

March-2016 • 09 kirtan should be sung. Dhoon should be of performing Dharana has been explained performed for a while. Reading of Shastras well. (scriptures) should be performed. We There are so many other things in the should purchase some new things for our spiritual field, but what is important and Maharaj on the pious occasions and significant is sometimes left out. By missing festivals like Deepawali. Spend time with the base of the spiritual life, Satsang Bhagwan at time when there is nobody appears burdensome. And resultantly, by around you. doing Satsang in worldly terms, effort is Begin with these initial steps. You will made to satisfy the mind and that is enjoy them very much. Dharma and considered to be success. Bhaktimata are residing in Murti. Gyan, Manokamana of Murti has the Vairagya etc. Gunas are there in Murti. capacity to remove all eight layers (Asta- Shreeji Maharaj has given priority to Sakar Aavran). In Kaliyug, one should seek Swaroop of Sadhana and therefore shelter in Murti only so that all other temples have been developed and idol Sadgunas would come automatically images have been invoked in all these without any extra efforts. Murti should be temples. Thus, secret of Sakar Swaroop cherished in our heart time and again. should be understood by us. Murti should We are very lucky that, we have be invoked in the sky of our heart, snan, received the divine Swaroop of Bhagwan ornaments, garlands, flowers, meals, very easily, for which Muktas of chandan etc. should be offered to Murti. Aksharsham spend crores of years in Pradakshina and Satsang Pranam should performing divine Darshan continuously. be performed. In Gadhada-13, the method

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 : 19.30 hours Sayan Aarti : 20.30 hours

Varshik Patotsav of Balswaroop Shree Ghanshyam Maharaj of Bapunagar approach Shree Swaminarayan temple and inauguration of new Entrance Gate 12/03/2016 to 16/03/2016 Panchanh Parayan of Shre Haribal Gita by Sadguru Nishkulanand etc. utsav would be celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm in the pious presene of H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj and H.H. Shri Lalji Maharaj. Mahant Swami Laxmanjivandasji Guru Sadguru Shastri Swami Nirgundasji Shree Swaminarayan temple, approach-Bapunagar

March-2016 • 10 - Prof. Hitendrabhai Naranbhai Patel (Ahmedabad) All people of this world strive to their ability.” achieve Moksha-Mukti but what to be done We have to render these services to after this Moksha-Mukti are achieved. And them without assessing their eligibility and nobody has its clear answer. If one is to we have to render our life-long services to enjoy Panch-Vishay in this world even after them without expecting anything from them achieving Mukti-Moksh, why to show off to with a view to obtain pleasure of Bhagwan get Mukti-Moksha? only. Services rendered by our body are Bhagwan Shree Swaminarayan has greater than the services rendered through stated in Shloka-121 of pious ‘Shiksha money. As the latter is considered as Patri’ that, offering alms, the former is considered as “I believe Mukti (salvation) as being offering devout services. able to serve Lord Krishna In Kadi-26 of Bhakta Chintamani-89, as Brahmanrupa, in Goloka Dhaama.” Sadguru Nishkulanand Swami has stated: To get an opportunity to render our nrh{trËh Mkkhwt nt{uþ, devout services to Bhagwan is real Mukti. ÷uðku yufufw ÃkÚkhku þe»k > This Sampradaya is of conduct and action. yks y{u Ãký yuf ÷uþwt, Scrupulously following the directions is the ðkMkwËuðLke ¼Âõík fheþwt > base of firm Upasana. One can get Atyantik ÃkAe MkkuLkuhe Ãkk½Lku {kÚku, Kalyan by performing Bhakti-Upasana of ÷eÄku Au yuf ÃkÚkhku LkkÚku > Shree Hari only while remaining in Dharma- Maryada and thereafter one gets the divine What a great message! To lift the happiness of rendering services and divine stones upon head for the temple is the real Darshan of Shree Hari. swaroop of Bhakti of Vasudev and that is There are detailed narrations of how to shown through His action. Just before few render services, in which manner etc. even years, there were no paid employees to Bhagwan Shree Hari had rendered His prepare the bed-sheets, cushions, ardent and devout services to Sevakram in blankets for the saints and haribhaktas, to Varni Swaroop. Even in Ashram of prepare meals of Prasad in kitchen during Ramanand Swami, devout services were Samaiyo, Utsav, to erect Mandap for Utsav, rendered like disciple by Shree Hari and Samaiyo. All these were done by the saints even as little Ghanshyam, devout services and Haribhaktas themselves. This is the were rendered to Dharmdev and specialty of Sampradaya. It is fine to listen Bhaktimata. Thus, an example is set to Katha-Kirtan through mobile phones or through action only. In Shloka-139, Shreeji other electronic gadgets but tossing the Maharaj has stated, same in front of Shree Hari is unique and “My disciples shall render life long divine and the best way. services to their parents, In Gadhada-35 Shree Hari has stated Guru and ailing persons according to that, “When services are rendered to such Sadhu having these six qualities, such March-2016 • 11 services are considered to have been In Gadhada Middle Chapter-59 Shree rendered to Bhagwan.” Even Nishkulanand Hari has stated that, only lucky persons get Swami states in Purushottam Prakash, opportunity to render their services to Chapter-38 that, “Those who shall believe Dharmvanshi Acharya and the saints. And in You, shall get divine happiness.” There this is possible only through the noble are Vachans of Shree Hari that, those who deeds of the previous births and lives. render their devout services to two When we get an opportunity to render Dharmvanshi Acharyas established by such services to saints and Dharmvanshi Shree Hari, they shall get divine happiness. Acharya Maharaj, we should remember In Gadhada Middle Chapter-25 Shreeji these words and should obtain the Maharaj has stated that, the devotees who pleasure of Shree Hari by accepting such develop addiction of rendering services to services. Whatever may be the type or the saints like devotee Uka Khachar, all nature of service, of body, mind or money, base feelings would be destroyed and we should grab such a divine opportunity devotee would be purified from within. In and should render such services with great Gadhada Middle Chapter-28 Shree Hari faith and affection. has stated that, one gets better result by This, there is great importance of rendering services even to Bhakta of Sewa in this Sampradaya. Rendering Bhagwan. So all of us should cherish services is the best way to get rid of all ardent faith towards our Maharaj. worldly woes and worries and such an In Gadhada Middle Chapter-07, opportunity is offered only to the lucky Shreeji Maharaj has stated that, while guys. So whenever such an opportunity rendering services, one should also occurs in our life, we should grab it and discipline his feelings and desires. should render such divine services and Thereby he gets rid of all infirmities. One should obtain the pleasure of Shreeji Maharaj and Dharmvanshi Acharya should also cherish company of the noble Maharaj. persons, ardent devotees and the saints. Services rendered to the saints and ardent Pendrive of Vachanamrit (273) devotees also have its advantage. It is to inform to all devotees and Bhakta of Bhagwan are of two types, Haribhaktas that, with the directions and Sakam and Nishkam. Uttam Bhakta of blessings of H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj, Shree Hari performs Nishkam Bhakti very Pen-drive containing Mukhvani recording ardently. It is this Nishkam Bhakta, who has of Vachanamrit (273) got prepared by been narrated by Bhagwan as Gyani Kalupur temple would be available from Bhakta in Shrimad Bhagwat Gita. And Sahitya Kendra of Shree Swaminarayan Sakam Bhakta has been narrated as temple, Kalupur, Ahmedabad-1, so all the Artharthi. Therefore, devotee of Bhagwan devotees and Haribhaktas may avail the should not desire anything else except benefit of this Pen-drive. ardent service to Bhagwan.

March-2016 • 12 EXPERIENCING VASANT RITU BY FOLLOWING THE DIRECTIONS OF SHIKSHA PATRI - Gordhanbhai V. Sitapara (Hirawadi-Bapunagar)

Sarvavatari Sarvoparti Shree subsequent stage of development for each Swaminarayan Bhagwan has performed and every human being. The vision of the Pran-Pratistha of His own Forms Shree people of this world reaches upto the Narnarayandev for Shuddhi of Upasana. happiness of this world, whereas the vision For the ease of Diksha, established the seat of Bhakta reaches upto the happiness of of Acharya in Dharmvansh. And for the the divine world also and therefore they guidance of all the devotees as to how live scrupulously follow the directions and lead their lives, Shree Hari Himself contained in the pious ‘Shiksha Patri’. wrote the pious ‘Shiksha Patri’ and offered Moreover, since the devotees and as a gift to the whole Samaj on the pious Haribhaktas are empowered by the day of Vasant Panchmi Samvat 1882. directions of Shree Hari, they never Vasant Panchmi is Pragatya Tithi of degenerate from human religion which ‘Shiksha Patri’. Those who do not follow the they follow and observe very naturally. directions of this pious ‘Shiksha Patri’, they T h o u g h B h a g w a n S h r e e are perturbed by Aadi, Vyadhi and Upadhi Swainarayan is Ishtdev for the devotees of for all the twelve months of the year and Shree Hari, we as devotees do respect suffer Lakshya choryasi Dukh and and worship Panch-Dev – Vishnu, Shiv, Yamyatana after leaving this human body. Ganpati, Parvati and Surya. Not only this, Simply by following the directions of the in the temples of original Swaminarayan pious ‘Shiksha Patri’, one can bring Vasant Sampradaya, the idol images of these five Ritu in his life. And only those, who have deities and Shree Hanumanji- KUldev of earned Punya of their previous lives can Dharmkul are also invoked. Shree understand this thing. This is not meant for Narnarayan, Shree Laxminarayan, Shree those who have grabbed the wealth Radhakrishna, Shree Revti Baldevji etc. through unfair means like a demon. various Forms of Shree Hari are also If the people start following the invoked in the temples. The idol images of directions of the pious ‘Shiksha Patri’ the Shree Ghanshyam Maharaj upto the age of slaughter of the animals would be stopped. 11 year, Shree Nilkanth Varni, Shree Aniti (immoral ways of life), Bhrastachar Harikrishna Maharaj, Shree Sahjanand and Lanch-Rushwat (corruption) would be Swai, Shree Narayanmunidev and Shree stopped. Those who believe in human Swaminarayan Bhagwan are also invoked religion, they must study ‘Shiksha Patri’ in these temples. By performing divine because first of all Shreeji Maharaj has Darshan of these idol images, one feels taught how to become an honest and gentle Vasant Ritu in their lives. human being. To become a devotee is the Besides Hari Jayanti (Ram Navmi),

March-2016 • 13 Haribhaktas do observe fast on the pious transactions being maintained in black and days of Janmastmi, Shivratri, Ekadashi white on paper, there remains no possibility Vrata, as directions in the pious ‘Shiksha of any misunderstanding leading to break Patri’. Thus, if people start following the up of relations and one is also saved from directions contained in ‘Shiksha Patri’ being deceived. By reading the pious scrupulously, all addictions of tobacco, ‘Shiksha Patri’ one gets the knowledge of gambling, liquor would evaporate from this Jeev, Maya and Ishwar and also knows world. People would start drinking milk and about Swaroop of Bhagwan. How to water properly sieved which would also behave with people of different categories, reduce the possibilities of diseases how to respect the people, how to sit in considerably. People would start leading a Sabha all these things are taught by healthy life abstaining themselves from all ‘Shiksha Patri’. For purifying the money types of prohibited edible items. They earned by a Grihasthi devotee, ‘Shiksha would keep their places neat and clean. Patri’ also teaches to offer 1/10th or 1/20th And then there would not be need of any portion of earning in Dharmada. As per the Swachhata Abhiyan (Cleanliness category of each and every person, Campaign). Vishesh Dharmas have been narrated by By performing Samagam of Sadhus, Shree Hari in the pious ‘Shiksha Patri’. way of Moksha is opened up. By getting up Thus, ‘Shiksha Patri’ is not meant for early in the morning, one can remain reading only but it is meant to bring Vasant healthy. To perform daily chores punctually Ritu in our life by following the directions and to go to temple to perform divine contained in it. Vachan of becoming happy Darshan of deities regularly, all these things has already been granted by Shree Hari in are taught by our pious ‘Shiksha Patri’. ‘Shiksha Patri’ and one can realize it only So by following the precepts by following the directions contained in the contained in the pious ‘Shiksha Patri’, unity pious ‘Shiksha Patri’ properly. is strengthened in the family. All financial

March-2016 • 14 Shree Swaminarayan Museum

Nowadays our Shree Swaminarayan has been witnessing the Spring season. We listen to the divine communion with the Nature in this pious place. Recently, sitting of our nature loving H.H. Shri Mota Maharaj has been developed in the garden developed in the Museum premises. The shedding of leaves by the trees create divine voice and these leaves are touching the lotus like feet of our H.H. Shri Mota Maharaj creating positive vibration in the atmosphere. When Shreeji Maharaj would have been sitting in the Sabha with the villagers conducted under the Chandarva of Prasadi kept for divine Darshan in Hall No.7 would have created similar atmosphere. If there are able creators like our Nand saints, many beautiful creations can be created at this place. And therefore only beautiful birds of rare species have been guests only to our Museum in the whole of Ahmedabad. Pavour blocks are being installed in the premises making the Museum dust-free place. The inner part of the Museum has become divine due to Things of Prasadi of Shreeji Maharaj. Our presence in the Museum is therefore a notification of our Moksha without any manifesto. On Sunday 21/02/2016 about 800 to 1000 devotees visited our Museum on the occasion of Patotsav of Visnagar temple. Recently one devotee on fulfilment of his desire of birth of child, weighed his new born child with silver and offered all the silver to Museum. - Praful Kharsani

March-2016 • 15 List of devotees who rendered their services under Shree Swaminarayan Museum Maintenance Bhet Yojna February-2016 Rs.41,000/- Devotee Shri Keshavlal Rs.5,000/- Devotee Shri Amrutlal Shankarlal, Manguben Keshavlal Patel, Vaduwala. K e s h a v l a l a n d Rs.5,000/- Devotee Shri Milapbhai Tansukhbhai Keshavlal- B h a r a t b h a i P a t e l - Langhnaj. Kukarwada- New Ranip. Rs.11,000/- Devotee Shri Dhirajbhai K. Rs.5,000/- Devotee Shri Minaben K. Patel, Science City. Joshi-Bopal. Rs.10,000/- Akshar Nivasi Devotee Rs.5,000/- Akshar Nivasi Sejalben Sudhakarbhai Jethalal Chandubhai Thakkar- Trivedi-Maninagar. Ahmedabad. Rs.5,151/- Devotee Shri Mithabhai Rs.5,000/- Akshar Nivasi Lalitkumar G. A a d a r b h a i P a t e l - Bhatt through Deviyaniben Jamiyatpura-Gandhinagar. Bhatt-Ahmedabad. Rs.5,001/- Devotee Shri Bipinbhai Rs.5,000/- D e v o t e e S h r i K a v i r Gopalbhai-Amraiwadi. A l p e s h b h a i P o r i y a - Dhudkot.

List of Host devotees who availed the benefit of Abhishek of Shree Narnarayandev in Shree Swaminarayan Museum February-2016 03/02/2016 Minaben Mahendrabhai Patel through Nidhiben-Ahmedabad. 05/02/2016 Shyam Ravjibhai Patel-Radhika Shyam Patel-Pragatinagar, Naranpur 14/02/2016 Dineshbhai Parshottamdas Patel-Ranip 26/02/2016 Lakhamshi Laljibhai Bhavani through Bharatbhai and Kantilal-Sandhli- Vadodara

10 gram, 20 gram, silver coins of Shree Narnarayandev are available at Shree Swaminarayan Museum for offering it on pious occasions and for personal preservation.

Instruction:- On every pious day of Punam, H.H. Shri Mota Maharaj shall perform aarti in the morning at 11.30 hours in Shree Swaminarayan Museum. Museum Mobile : 98795 49597 Devotee Shri Parshottambhai (Dasbhai, Bapunagar) : Mobile No. 99250 42686 www.swaminarayanmuseum.org/com • email:[email protected]

March-2016 • 16 BENEVOLENT SHREE HARI - Shastri Haripriyadasji (Gandhinagar) In Satyug, though one may spend thousands of years performing Dhyan, yet there was no guarantee of getting Moksha. In Tretayug, though people used to spend all their money in performing Yagna and yet there was no guarantee of getting Moksha. In Dwapar Yuga, though people used to SATSANG BALVATIKA spend almost half of their lives in rendering Compiler Shastri Harikesavdasji (Gandhinagar) their services, yet there was no guarantee of getting Moksha. But in Kaliyug, Bhagwan to Maharaj but he had nothing. And he Shree Swaminarayan has made this path received this coin from one rich Sheth, who of Moksha very easy : offered the meals and one coin to each “suLku òuEyu íku ykðku {kuûk {køkðk hu ÷ku÷... Brahmin. And he wanted to fulfil his desire yks Ä{oðtþeLku îkh...... ” of offering the coin to Maharaj and so he Any Mumukshu when he performs would continue with old turban. Darshan of Bhagwan with ardent faith and Shreeji Maharaj told the whole Sabha with honest and pure feelings in his heart, that, this Brahmin had everything he had he gets Moksha very easily. and so now nothing is left to be done by him There was one Bhudev. One day to get emancipation in his life. Bhagwan Swaminarayan was stting in “fkuELkku ¼kh Lk hk¾u {whkhe, Darbar of Sura Bhagat in village Loya ykÃku ÔÞks Mkrník røkhÄkhe.” which was organized after the celebration So by offering one coin, Bhudev of grand Shakotsav. Many devotees from ensured his emancipation from Shree other places were performing pooja of Hari. Our Shreeji Maharaj is very Bhagwan; some were offering beautiful benevolent as he offers much more to the and attractive clothes, some others were devotees than what He receives from the offering a dish full of money. Meanwhile that devotees. So to remain an ardent devotee Bhudev came. He looked very poor like of Bhagwan is the best quality of a Sudama. He sat in front of Maharaj and devotee. started opening his turban and took out • one coin of rupee, which was his life long BHAGWAN PROTECTED BHAKTI OF earning. He offered the coin at the lotus like BHAKTA feet of Maharaj. - Narayan V. Jani (Gandhinagar) Antaryami Shree Hari told Bhudev Many times we see that, people who with smiling face that, he should have lead a righteous and straightforward life are purchased a new turban replacing his old unhappy in their lives. And there are other turban rather than offering the coin. Bhudev people who are living happily making replied that, he wanted to offer something others unhappy. But one thing is sure that,

March-2016 • 17 ultimately there is victory of Truth. lodge a complaint against the people who This is an incident about village had grabbed his field, the government Kundal situated near Kadi. Kalo Bhagat of officials did not listen to his cravings. Kala village Kundal was an ardent devotee of Bhagat ardently requested the officials at Bhagwan Shree Swaminarayan. He was least to visit the site of his field to know performing Bhajan, Bhakti, Seva all the about the facts. The officials agreed. time and was earning his livelihood through The next day, the officials visited the agricultural activity. field of Kala Bhagat. All the villagers Many people were jealous of the thronged together. It was decided that, peace and happiness and wealth of Kala Kala Bhagat would hold a burning iron ball Bhagat which was due to his ardent Bhakti in his hand and move around in his field. If only. Now these jealous people started his hands are not burnt, that much area thinking how to make Kala Bhagat would be believed to be of ownership of unhappy. The fields of such people were Kala Bhagat. situated adjoining the field of Kala Bhagat. Accordingly, an iron ball was brought These people conspired to usurp the field and was burnt like fire in one corner of the of Kala Bhagat and one day they went to field and then Kala Bhagat was asked to Kala Bhagat and informed him that hold it in his hand and to move around the henceforth he would not enter into his field boundary of his field. Kala Bhagat was as the field is of their ownership. Though cherishing ardent faith in Shreeji Maharaj Kala Bhagat argued that, even his and so he prayed to Maharaj with folded forefathers used to do agriculture activity in hands and took the iron ball in his hand and the field and therefore the field was of his started moving around the boundary of his ownership only, these people did not listen field. To the surprise of all, the hands of to the words of Kala Bhagat and threatened Kala Bhagwat were not burnt and the him of life if he would enter the field. moment Kala Bhagat dropped the iron ball T h e s e p e o p l e h a d a l r e a d y upon the land, it caused fire in the dry approached the government official at Kadi grass. All including the government officials in advance and had offered them amount were convinced that the field was of the on condition to favour them so that when ownership of Kala Bhagat. Accordingly, the Kala Bhagat would approach the government officials approved the claim of government official with a complaint, they Kala Bhagat and rejected the conspired may not pay any attention to it. Accordingly, claim of the people. when Kala Bhagat went to the government Bhagwan Shree Swaminarayan ni Jay office craving to give him justice and to Kala Bhagat Ni Jay

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-2016 • 18 BHAKTI-SUDHA FROM THE BLESSINGS OF H.H. SHRI reach upto the main land. So he prepared a GADIWALA ON THE OCCASION OF small hut on the island and started living in SATSANG SABHA OF EKADASHI, it. One night there was heavy rain and due KALUPUR TEMPLE-HAVELI to heavy lightning falling upon his hut it was “FAITH SHOULD NOT BE SHAKEN burnt to ashes. Now his faith was shaken. UNDER ANY DIFFICULT SITUATION” He prayed and asked to Parmatma, which - Compiled by Kotak Varsha Natvarlal- sins he had committed that he had to suffer Ghodasar this much in his life. Now the fire of the hut Knowledge of only those people would was noticed by some sailors passing by. survive who cherish Shraddha in They thought that somebody on the island Parmatma, Sat-Shastra and Sat-Purush. is in difficulty and they came to the island Just as wink cannot survive without oil, the and saved the person. Now even the boat can sail only in the water, Gyan cannot burning of the hut through lightning had be retained without Shraddha. There brought the way and solution which the should be faith and trust. There are certain man was searching for. So meaning is that, things even in our scriptures which we we should not lose our faith under any cannot understand in first reading. Our circumstances. There is no difficulty in this logic cannot comprehend it but then also it world, which does not have its solution. In should be believed because it is Truth. If fact every problem comes alongwith its somebody would have talked about talking solution only. There is no house whose all with any person of the world while sitting in doors and windows are closed. Ishwar one room, nobody would have believed in keeps at least one window open and if we these words. But today it is the fact that, try and push it, it would open itself for us. there are mobiles with the help of which we Thomas Addison was a scientist. He can talk with any person in the world while discovered the electric bulb. But before sitting in our room. Similarly there are many that discovery, he made about thousand things in Shastras (scriptures) which unsuccessful attempts but he did not leave nobody would believe today, but we should it and tried again and ultimately he was have faith in such things. successful. So when we come across Once a man was sailing in a boat. difficulties in our life, Ishwar also grants us Suddenly the boat tumbled down and the such things which are helpful to us. We person fell into the ocean. He swam upto have to be patient and we have to keep on the island which was very close. Now there making efforts. Only those who go deep was no way to return to the mainland. But into the sea, come out with something the person had ardent faith that in some meaningful and valuable. The persons days he would find out a way or solution to sitting idly on the sea-shore do not get

March-2016 • 19 anything. dishonour anybody, not to speak loudly in So if we cherish utmost faith in front of the elders, parents and saints, not Bhagwan, all our desolation and to cherish company of bad persons, not to hopelessness would evaporate with the ray breach the faith of others. of hope and positivity and we also get If we follow these directions, we would confidence and courage to go ahead in our earn the pleasure of our Parmatma. And to life. So it is an humble prayer to Parmatma follow them is considered to be a sin. that, Parmatma may strengthen our There are other directions which tell Shraddha and Trust. us what we should do. It has been stated in • the pious ‘Shiksha Patri’ that we should get AGYA-VIDHI-NISHEDH up early in the morning, to perform poojan- - Sankhya Yogi Kokilaba archan of the deities, to render our devout (Surendranagar) and selfless services to our parents and The best creation of Parmatma is our elders, to go to the temple to perform human being. Buddhi-Daan is something Darshan of the deities, to perform kirtan in which is offered by Parmatma to human loud voice, to warmly welcome the guests, beings only and not to anybody else. And to render our services to our Guru and this is offered for the welfare of the whole ailing persons, to maintain the accounts of mankind. Therefore, all human beings our financial transactions accurately, to should live under the directions of perform Katha-Varta of Bhagwan, to Parmatma and Ishwar. No two persons are perform Samagam of Satpurush, to lead a same in look and appearance and life which is replete with Dharma-Bhakti- intelligence. Even twins have got their own Tyag-Seva etc. To take out 1/10th or 1/20th differences. Such a unique creativity is portion of our earning for Dharmada, to offered to human being by Parmatma. render our devout services in temple, to Every creator desires that His creation nourish and protect our family and our should live as per His wish. Parents also dependants, to render our devout and desire and wish that their children remain selfless services to our society and our under their directions. In our pious scripture nation, to perform Vratas on the pious days ‘Shiksha Patri’ our Bhagwan Shree like Ekadashi, Janmastmi. Swaminarayan has talked about two types If we follow these directions, we would of directions. (1) Nishedhatmak Agya 2) earn the pleasure of our Parmatma. And to Vidheyatmak Agya. They are in fact Do’s follow them is considered to be a sin. and Don’ts of life. What should not be done Sadguru Nishkulanand Swami has by a human being and a devotee in his life therefore stated in ‘Vachanvidhi’ Granth: and what he should do in his life. “Mkku ðkíkLke yuf ðkík Au Lkð fhðku yk¿kk÷kuÃk, Now among Don’ts it is directed not to hkS fhðkLkwt hÌkw ¾Yt Ãký, fhkrðÞu Lkrn nrhLku commit theft, not to tell lie, not to be very fkuÃk.” angry, not be very proud of pelf, power and So, if we want to earn the pleasure of position, not to be selfish, not to get Bhagwan, we should be alert and we involved in any type of corruption, not to should remain under the directions of abuse anybody, not to eat meals of other Parmatma. persons, not to eat something which is not permissible by the scriptures, not to

March-2016 • 20 ‘Umbara’ of Prasadi of Kalupur devotees and haribhaktas used to come to Swaminarayan temple, Ahmedabad Shree Swaminarayan temple, Ghatlodiya studded with gold early in the morning to perform Shree Our Paramkripalu Ishtadev Shree Swaminarayan Mahamantra Dhoon. Swaminarayan Bhagwan got constructed Shsari Harikrishna Swai of Bapunagar first ever grand temple in Ahmedabad approach temle and Prem Swaroop Swami Kalupur through Sadguru Anandanand from Kalol, Satyasanklap Swami, Suvrat Swami and invoked the idol images of Swami, Chaitanya Swami, Divyapraksh Shree Narnarayandev on thepious day of Swami Shastri Kunjvihari Swami etc. saints Fagan Sud-03 Samvat 1878 and while had narrated beautiful Katha-Varta. On standing on ‘Umbara’ preached the 23/01/2016 grand Shakotsav was sermons and blessed all the saints and performed by H.H. Shri Mota Maharaj. devotees and gave the message that Devotee Shri Dharmendrabhai Kanjibhai ‘Shree Narnarayandev and We are one Patel family rendered the services as the and same and there is no difference chief host of this Shakotsav. During the between us and we shall fulfill the desires whole programme, Shree Narnarayandev of those who perform our divine Darshan’ Yuvak Mandal had rendered beautiful and that while residing in the idol images of services. (Chetan J. Patel, Shree Shree Narnarayandev we shall fulfill the Narnarayandev Yuvak Mandal) desires of all devotees who shall perform Celebration of Dasham Varshik divine Darshan of the images on thepious Patotsav and Shakotsav in Shree days of Poonam, Diwali and Patotsav. Swaminarayan temple, Maniyor With the directions and blessings of H.H. With the directions and blessings of Shri Acharya Maharaj and with the H.H. Shri Achrya Maharaj and with the inspiration of Mahant Shastri Swami pleasure of H.H. Shri Mota Maharaj and Harikrishnadasji, Shastri Swami HH. Shri Lalji Maharaj with the inspiration of Purushottamprakashdasji (Gandhinagar) Mahant Swami Jagdishprasaddasji (Idar), and Shastri Swami Ramkrishnadasji Dasham Varshik Patotsav of Shree (Koteshwar) this ‘Umbara of Prasadi’ has Swaminarayan temple, Maniyor was been studded with gold and its celebrated with great fervor and inauguration has been performed by H.H. enthusiasm on 11/01/2016. Devotee Shri S h r i A c h a r y a 1 0 0 8 S h r i Mohanbhai Kodarbhai Patel, devotee Shri Koshalendraprasadji Maharaj. Now the Dahyabhai Kodarbhai Patel and devotee same is kept open for divine Darshan for all Shri Chintanbhai D. Patel had rendered the saints, devotees and Haribhaktas from their services as the hosts of this occasion. 0 1 / 0 3 / 2 0 1 6 . ( S h a s t r i S w a m i Shastri Swami Harikeshavdasji and Narayanmunidasji) Raghuvircharandasji had delivered their Shakotsav in Shree Swaminarayan inspirational speeches on this divine temple, Ghatlodiya occasion. H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj had With the directions and blessings of perform aarti of Thakorji and Shakotsav H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj and the whole and had blessed the whole Sabha Dharmkul and in the pious company of organized on the occasion. Shree Ghanshyam Maharaj thousands of Shakotsav was celebrated with great

March-2016 • 21 fervor and enthusiasm in Thuravas, organized from 19/01/2016 to 23/01/2016 Umedgadh, Ratanpar, Netramali villages. w i t h S a d g u r u S h a s t r i S w a m i Kothari Satyasankalp Swami, Ajay Swami, Chandraprakashdasji (Mahant of Shreeji Swami, Madhav Swami etc. saitns Siddhpur) on the occasionof Varshik had narrated Katha-Varta and had Patotsav of Shree Prabha Hanumanji explained the importance of Bhagwan. Maharaj of Jamiyatpura. 22nd Patotsav of Shree Swaminarayan H.H. Shri Gadiwala and H.H. Shri temple, Naranpura Mota Gadiwala had graced the occasion With the directions and blessings of and blessed all the ladies devotees. H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj and the whole Mahant Swami Devprasaddasji of Ayodhya Dharmkul, 22nd Varshik Patotsav of temple, Vishnu Swami from Jetalpur and Balswaroop Shree Ghanshyam Maharaj saints from Ahmedabad temple had also of Shree Swaminarayan temple, arrived on this occasion. Naranpura was celebrated with great H.H. Shri Lalji Maharaj graced the fervor and enthusiasm on the pious day of concluding ritual and performed Annakut Maha Sud-10. On this occasion, Shastri aarti of Thakorji and Shree Hanumanji and Swami Hariom Swami had narrated performed divine Vaghar of Shakotsav and Kathamrut on ‘Jay Sadguru’ aarti with its blessed all the saints and haribhaktas in the detailed explanation. Sabha. Akshar Nivasi devotee Devotee Shri Ambalal Valdas Patel Purushottambhai babbhai Patel family of (Vihar) family had rendered the services as Uvarsad rendered the services as the host the host of Patotsav. Devotee Shri of Parayan. Devotee Shri Nareshbhai Mavjibhai Valjibhai (Leelapur) had Amrutbhai Patel family renderd the rendered the services as the host of Katha. services as the host of Patotsav. Devotee Saints from varius places had arrived and Shri Sakarben Bhagwanda Pael, Zundal had explained the importance of Dev and rendered the services as the co-host of Dharmkul. Patotsav. The Sabha was conducted by In the morning at 7.00 hours H.H. Shri devotee Shri Ghanshyambhai Patel A c h a r y a M a h a r a j p e r f o r m e d (Uvarsadwala). Services of Shree Shodasopchar Mahabhishek with fruit Narnarayandev Yuvak Mandal and ladies juice, Panchamrit-Keshar in Vedic tradition. devotees of Jamiyatpura were very At last H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj blessed i n s p i r a t i o n a l . ( M a h a n t S w a m i all the saints and devotees. Vijayprakashdasji) Unde the guidance of Madhav Swami, Patotsav of Shree Swaminarayan Poojari Shreeji Swami and saint Parshad temple, Nandol Mandal had rendered inspirational services With the directions and blessings of and devotees of Naranpura had availed the H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj, H.H. Shri Mota benefit of divine Darshan. (Mayur Bhagat) Maharaj and H.H. Shri Lalji Maharaj and Celebration of Patotsav of Shree with the inspirationof Mahant Swami Prabha Hanumanji temple, Laxmanjivandasji of Approach temple, 11th Jamiyatpura Patotsav of Shree Swaminarayan temple, With the directions and blessings of Nandol was celebrated with great fervor H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj, H.H. Shri Mota and enthusiasm. In the morning, Maharaj and H.H. Shri Lalji Maharaj and Haribhaktas availed the benefit of with the inspiration of Sadguru Swami Mahapooja. Thereafter Abhishek of Jagatprakashdasji and Sadguru mahant Shastri Swami Atmaprakashdasji, Shrimad Thakorji and Annakut Aarti were performed Satsangibhushan Panchanh Parayan was whose benefit was availed by the host March-2016 • 22 devotees. Sadguru Shastri Swami Shree Swaminarayan temple, Harikrishnadasji (approach Bapunagar) Sankapura had narrated beautiful Katha-Varta. With the directions and blessings of (Kothari Patel Vishnubhai, Nandol) H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj and the whole Shree Swaminarayan temple, Kundal Dharmkul and as a part of Patotsv of With the directions and blessings of temple, Satsang Sabah was organized on H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj and H.H. Shri 13/02/2016 whrein Shasri Harikrishna Mota Maharaj and H.H. Shri lalji Maharaj, Swami, Dharmakishor Swami had narrated on 10/02/2016 Shastri Harikrishna Swami, Katha-Varta. In the morning on 14/02/2016, Bhakti Kishor Swami and Dharmkishor Abhishek of Shree Harikrishna Maharaj Swami had narrated beautiful Katha-Varta and Abhishek, Annakut were performed. All in village Kundal of great devotee Kala devotees availed the benefit of Darshan Bhagat on the occasion of 11th Patotsv of and Prasad. (Upendrabhai Soni) Bapunagar temple and 5th Varshik Patotsav Vasant Panchmi in Shree of Shree Swaminarayan Museum. Swaminarayan temple, Balasinor (Kothari Ambalal Patel) With the directions and blessings of Shree Swaminarayan temple, Lasundra H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj and with the whole Dharmkul and with the inspiration of With the directions and blessings of Swami Narayanjivandasji (Varawala) H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj and H.H. Shri Mahotsav of Vasant Panchmi was Mota Maharaj and H.H. Shri Lalji Maharaj, celebrated with great fervor and Katha-Varta were performed by enthusiasm. Mahapurush Swami and Dharmkishor Mahapooja-Abhishek were also Swami etc. saints on 07/02/2016 as a prt of performed in front of Thakorji whose benefit th 11 Patotsav of Bapunagar temple. was availed by the host family. Reading of (Manglesh Patel) Shrimad Shiksha Patri was made by Shree Swaminarayan temple, Shastri Swami Chhapaiyaprasaddasji on Kubadthal this pious occasion. Nagar-Yatra of With the directions and blessings of Thakorji was also organized in the village H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj, H.H. Shri Mota and all the devotees availed benefit of Maharaj and H.H. Shri Lalji Maharaj, grand divine Darshan and Prasad. Satsang Sabha was organized at Shree (Harik Bhagat on behalf of Kothari) Swaminarayan temple, Kubadthal whrein Varshik Patotsav of Shree Mahant Swami Laxmanjivandasji, Swami Swaminarayan temple, Saraspur Harikrishnadasji etc. saitns had narrated With the directions and blessings of Katha-Varta and had explained the H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj and the whole importance of Bhagwan. (Sagar Patel) Dharmkul and with the inspiration of Shree Swaminarayan temple, Kunjad Sadguru Swami Narayanjivandasji, H.H. With the directions and blessings of Shri Acharya Maharaj had performed H.H Shri Acharya Maharaj, H.H. Shri Annakut aarti in Shree Swaminarayan Mota Maharaj and H.H. Shri Lali Maharaj temple, Saraspur on the occcasionof and as a part of 11th Patotsav of Shree Patotsav of Thakorji. The host family had Swaminarayan temple, Bapunagar, performed poojan-aarti of H.H. Shri Shastri Harikrishna Swami of Bapunagar Acharya Maharaj. Saitns from Ahmedabad Approach temple had narrated Katha- had also arrived on this occasion. H.H. Shri Varta on 04/02/2016 on the pious dayof Acharya Maharaj had blessed the whole Ekadashi. (Patel Mukeshbhai) sabha. (Kothari Hardik Bhagat)

March-2016 • 23 Celebration of 13th Patotsav of Shree Saint mandal of Mahant Sadguru Shastri Swaminarayan temple, Karjisan Swami Narayanvallbhdasji of Vadnagar With the directions and blessings of and saints and Haribhaktas cherishing H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj and the whole ardent affection towards Mahant Sadguru Dharmkul, 13 t h Patotsav of Shree Shastri Swami Hariomprakashdasji of Swaminarayan temple, Karjisan was Naranpura had rendered their beautiful celebrated with great fervor and services and obtained the pleasure of enthusiasm wherein devotee Shri Shree Hari. Relatives of the host temple Ghanshyambhai (Fuva) Bhagwandas had arrived from America and had availed Patel (descendant of Mahamuktaraj the benefit of this divine occasion. On the Govindjibhai) and devotee Shri Natvarbhai last day Mahaprasad was organized whose Bhagwadas Patel family rendered the benefit was availed by all the villagers of the services as the host of Patotsav. On this village. (Shreeji Swami Poojari) occasion Panchdinatmak Shrimad 300th Ravi Sabha in Shree Bhagwat Parayan was organized from Swaminarayan temple, Zulasan 06/01/2016 to 11/01/2016 with Sadguru With the directions and blessings of M a h a n t S h a s t r i S w a m i H H . S h r i A c h a r y a 1 0 0 8 S h r i Hariomprakashdasji (Mahant of Naranpura Koshalendraprasadji Maharaj and with the temple) and Sadguru Shastri Swami inspiration and guidance of saints of Shreejiprakashdasji (Hathijan Gurukul) as Jetalpur temple, celebration of 300th Akhand spokespersons. Saptahik Ravi-Sabha of Sunday of Shree H.H. Shri Mota Gadiwala graced the Swaminarayan temple, Zulasan was first day of Katha and blessed the host celebrated with great fervor and family and ladies devotees of villages of enthusiasm on 14/02/2016. On this Dandhavya Desh. H.H. Shri Laxmiswaroop occasion, devotees had performed 12000 Gadiwala graced the occasion on the Mantra-Lekhan, Vachanamrit Path, second day of Katha alongwith Sankhya Dandvat, Pradakshina, Bhajan-Kirtan and Yogi ladies devotees and blessed all Dhoon etc. (Shree Narnarayandev Yuvak Shibirarthi ladies devotees. H.H. Shri Mandal, Zulasan) Acharya Maharaj graced the occasion on 9th Varshik Patotsav of Shree the third day of Katha, performed Darshan- Swaminarayan temple, Anjali poojan of Thakorji and blessed the host With the directions and blessings of devotees alongwith all the saints and H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj and with the devotees. Saints from various places had inspiration of Mahatn Shastri Swai also arrived on this occasion and had Atmaprakashdaji and Shastri P.P. Swami of delivered their inspirational speeches Jetalpurdham, 9th Varshik Patotsav of Shree explaining the importance of Sarvopari S w a m i n a r a y a n t e m p l e , A n j a l i Bhagwan Shree Hari and Dharmvanshi. (Ahmedabad) was celebrated with great Kothari of Karjisan temple and all other fervor and enthusiasm from 15/02/2016 to leading Haribhaktas and devotees and 21/02/2016. During this Patotsav Shree Narnarayandev Yuvak Mandal and Mahotsav, Shrimad Satsangibhushan Mahila Mandal had rendered their beautiful Saptah Parayan was organized with services. Devotee Shri Trikambhai Bhagat Shastri Swami Bhaktinandandasji as had taken care of all types of services to spokesperson. Vishnu Swami (Kalupur) about 200 saints and Parshads. was the spokesperson of Samhita Path. On this occasion, Honourable Minister M a h i l a M a n d a l o f S h r e e Shri Nitinbhai P[atel, Shri Pareshbhai Patel Swaminarayan temple, Anjali had rendered (Kundalwala) had also remained present. the services as the host of Katha. During

March-2016 • 24 Katha, various utsavs were also Acharya Maharaj, H.H. Shri Lalji Maharaj celebrated. On 20/02/2016 H.H. Shri and H.H. Shri Laxmiswaroop Gadiwala. Gadiwala graced the occasion and blessed O n t h i s o c c a s i o n S h r i m a d all the ladies devotees. In the morning on Satsangijvan Katha Parayan was 21/02/2016 the chief host of Patotsav o r g a n i z e d w i t h P u r a n i S w a m i devotee Shri Balvantbhai Mirani family had Ghanshyamprakashdasji as spokes performed Shodasopchar poojan-archan person and Sadguru Poorani sWami of Thakorji. H.H. Shri Acharya 1008 Shri Balswaroopdasji as spokesperson of Koshalendraprasadji Maharaj and H.H. Samhita Path. Devotee Shri Ramjibhai Shri Lalji Maharaj performed Mahabhishek Vishram Gorasiya family of Sukhpar of Shree Narnarayandev, Shree (Kachchh) had rendered the services as Radhakrishnadev, Shree Ghanshyam the host of this pious occasion. Katha Maharaj. Theeafer, Shangaar aarti, Paryaa, Mahabhishek, Shree Hari Yaag, Annakut aarti and concluding ritual of Annakut, Blood Donation Camp, Ratriya Cultural Programme were also organized Katha were performed by H.H. Shri Lalji on this occasion. Mahaaj. H.H. Shri Lalji Maharaj had also graced and blessed the Sabha organized H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj had graced the occasion and had performed on the occasion wherein the host devotees Shodasopchar Mahabhishek of Shree were also honoured. Saints from various R a d h a k r i s h n a d e v H a r i k r i s h n a places had also arrived on this occasion. Maharaj.therafter H.H. Shri Acharya Announcement of the next Dasabdi Maharaj graced the Sabha organized on Mahotsav was made onthis occasion. the occasion and honoured the host Services of Mahila Mandal, Kankaria devotees. Saints from various places and Yuvak Mandal and services of ladies thousands of devotees and Haribhakts devotees and Haribaktas of Ranip were h a d c e l e b r a t e d P a t o t s a v a n d very inspirational. During the whole Rangotsav.Sankhya Yogi ladies devotees programme, Mahant Shri K.P. Swami of from various places had also arrived on this Jetalpurdham, Mahant V.P. Swami of Anjali occasion. The Sabha was conducted by temple, Bhanu Swami, Prem Swami and Shailendrasinh Zala and Bharat Bhagat. Parmeshwar Swami of Muli etc. saints had Under the guidance of Kothari Swami alao arrived on this occasion. Krrishnavallbhdasji, Vraj Swami (Mahant Shri V.P. Swami, Anjali) Harikrishna Swami, Gopal Swami, Shastri MULI DESH Suryaprakahdasji and Gyan Swami had made beautiful arrangement of Katha. Celebration of Samaiyo of Vasant Panchmi of Shree Swaminarayan (Shailendrasinh Zala) temple, Muli Murti Pratistha Mahotsav of Shree With the directions and blessings of Swaminarayan temple, Leelapur H . H . S h r i A c h a r y a 1 0 0 8 S h r i (ladies) Koshalendraprasadji Maharaj and the With the directions and blessings of whole Dharmkul and with the inspiration H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj and with the and guidance of Mahant Swami inspiration of Akshar Nivasi Prabhucharan Shyamsundar Swami, 193 r d Varshik Swami of Muli temple and Sadguru Patotsav of Shree Radhakrishnadev M a h a n t S w a m i P r e m j i v a n d a s j i H a r i k r i s h n a M a h a r a j o f S h r e e (Surendranagar), renovation of Shree Swaminarayan temple, Mulidham was Swaminarayan temple, Leelapur (ladies celebrated with great fervor and devotees) of Lakhtar Taluka of Muli Desh enthuasism on the pious day of Vasant was completed. Panchmi in the pious company of H.H. Shri Accordingly, Murti Pratistha Mahotsav was organized from 30/01/2016 to

March-2016 • 25 03/02/2016 with great fervor and H . H S h r i A c h a r y a 1 0 0 8 S h r i enthusiasm. Accordingly, Shrimad Koshalendraprasadji Maharaj and H.H. Bhagwan Panchanh Parayan was Shri Mota Maharaj and H.H. Shri Lalji organized with Sadguru Shastri Swami Maharaj and with inspiration and guidance Shreejiprakashdasji (Hathijan Gurukul) as of Mahant Swami Bhaktiprasaddasji s p o k e s p e r s o n . P o o j a r i S w a m i oftemple and Nilkanth Swami, grand Nityaprakashdasi and Bal Swaroop Swami Shakotsav was celebrated on 31st January were spokespersons of Samhita Path. 2016. Saints had narrated Leela of On 03/02/2016 Pran Pratisha of Shakotsav in the form of Katha. President Thakorji and Shodasopchar Mahabhishek Shri Govindbhai Patel had hailed the of Shre Harikrishna Maharaj were services rendered by 10 host devotees on performed by H.H Shri Acharya Maharaj in this pious occasion. On this occasion, Vedic tradition. Thereafter Annakut Aarti Samuh Janmangal path, Pooja, Thaal, and aarti of Shree Hariyaag were also Aarti and Path of Hanumanchalisa were performed. In the Sabha the host devotees performed. All devotees availed the benefit were honoured. H.H. Shri Gadiwalal also of Prasad. (Pravin Shah) graced the occasion and blessed all the Shakotsav-Vasant Panchmi in Shree ladies devotees. The whole arrangement Swaminarayan temple, Atlanta w a s m a d e b y K o t h a r i S w a m i With the directions and blessings of Krishnavallbhdasji. H . H S h r i A c h a r y a 1 0 0 8 S h r i The sabha was conducted by Poojari Koshalendraprasadji Maharaj and H.H. Swami Tyagvallbhdasji. Ghanshyam Shri Mota Maharaj and H.H. Shri Lalji Swami and Seva Vatsal Swami had Maharaj and with inspiration and guidance rendered their beautiful services in the of Mahant Swami, on 13/02/2016 grand kitchen. Saints from various placed had Shakotsav and Vasant Panchmi were also arrived on this occasion. celebrated with great fervor and (Shailendrasinh Zala) enthusiasm on the pious day of Vasant Panchmi and in the presence of large OVERSEAS SATSANG NEWS number of devotees and Haribhaktas. Shree Swaminarayan temple, Detailed information about Utsav and Parsipenny its importance were explained by swami. With the directions and blessings of On the pious day of Vasant Panchmi. In the H . H S h r i A c h a r y a 1 0 0 8 S h r i Sabha organized on the occasion poojan- Koshalendraprasadji Maharaj and H.H. archan of Shiksha Patri was also Shri Mota Maharaj and H.H. Shri Lalji performed. Maharaj, Uttarayan Zoli Parva was Saints had explained the importance celebrated with great fervor and of pious ‘Shiksha Patri’and had praised the enthusiasm in Chhapaiydham Shree services rendered by devotees. Many Swaminarayan temple, Parsipenny under devotees availed the benefit of rendering the guidance of Mahant Swami. President their services.in the evening at 7.00 hours Shri Moradiya had furnished information Group aarti was performed. Devotee Shri about upcoming utsavs. All Haribhaktas Rajubhai Shaileshbhai and his family performed Dhoon-Kiran and Nitya Niyam in members had rendered beautiful services front of Thakorji and availed the benefit of of preparing Shak-Rotla on this pious Prasad. (Pravin Shah) occasion. All devotees and Haribhaktas Shakotsav in Shree Swaminarayan availed the benefit of Prasad. temple, Hyustan (Atlanta Satsang Samaj) With the directions and blessings of

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 (GUJARAT) Pin-380 001 and Published at and for Shree Swaminarayan Temple, Kalupur, Ahmedabad (GUJARAT) Pin-380 001. March-2016 • 26