Official News-letter from Shri Narnarayandevdesh Diocese Vol : 7 • No : 81 JANUARY-2014

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 04 Phone : 27499597 www.swaminarayanmuseum.com 02. APPOINTMENT DIARY OF 05 With the directions of H.H. ACHARYA MAHARAJSHRI Shri Narnarayandev 03. 06 Pithadhipati H.H. 1008 Shri 04. MUNI STUDIED MUCH 08 Koshalendraprasadji 05. H.H. SHRI MOTA MAHARAJ ONE INTRODUCTIO 09 Maharajshri Controlling Editors & Publishers 06. SATSANG WITH DEW AND FLOWERS 11 Shastri Swami Harikrishnadasji OUR PILGRIMAGE TO MAHANT SIKKIM-DARJEELING ALONGWITH SHRI SWAMINARAYAN TEMPLE H.H. SHRI MOTA MAHARAJ Kalupur, Ahmedabad-1. 07. VACHANAMRIT 12 Phone : 22132170, 22136818 08. BEGINNING POINT OF 13 Karbhari office : 22121515. SHREE Fax : 22176992. 09. ONE SHOULD CHERISH NISHCHAY LIKE 14 www.swaminarayan.info NARUPANT NANA Editorial & Subscription Address Shri Swaminarayan 10. SHREE SWAMINARAYAN MUSEUM 15 Shri Swaminarayan Temple 11. SATSANG BALVATIKA 17 Kalupur, AHMEDABAD-1 (INDIA) 12. BHAKTI-SUDHA 18 For a Change in Address : 13. NEWS 21 E-mail : [email protected]

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JANUARY-2014 • 03 Pious Dhanur Maas is going on. It will be completed after few days. Balance of Bhajan increases during this month. The devotees who may have performed jaap of Shree Swaminarayan Mahamantra during the severe cold of this winter, they would have felt serenity and peace of mind and divine experience in their heart. Divine powers of Bhajan are such that, it can change even the fate and hard-luck of anybody. This Shadakshari Mahamantra has got such divine powers. By performing ardent Bhakti and Bhajan, one gets rid of all difficulties of life. However, while performing Bhajan and Bhakti, our mind revolts against it all types of thoughts come into our mind. At that time, we should perform Bhajan and Bhakti with high sound and by clapping. And in this way Bhajan and Dhoon of Bhagwan should be performed. (Vachanamrit Loya-06). This will pacify all such thoughts. Bhakti of Bhagwan and performing Dhoon of Shree Swaminarayan Mahamantra grants divine peace and serenity to the devotees. We are very lucky that by getting birth in our divine Satsang, we have got Bhagwan Shree Swaminarayan in our life. We should be proud of it because even Kaal, Karma and Maya also follow Him. We should keep on chanting the divine name of Bhagwan Shree Swaminarayan even while doing our daily routine work so that we get divine blessings of Bhagwan Shree Swaminarayan in our life.

Editor Mahant Swami Shastri Swami Harikrishnadas

JANUARY-2014 • 04 Appointment Diary of H.H. Acharya Maharaj 1008 Shri Koshalendraprasadji Maharajshri (Deceber- 2013)

1. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Kapadwanjon the occasion of invocation of the idol images. 2. Graced the house of the devotee Shri Harikrishnabhai Bholabhai Patel (Viharwala) on the occasion of Mahapooja. 7. Graced Shree Swaminarayan templ,e Jiragadh (Muli Desh) on the occasion of Patotsav. 9. Graced the village Halvad (Muli Desh) on the occasion of concluding ritual of Akhand Dhoon-Mahamantra. 10. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Jamiyatpura on the occasion of Patotsav. 11. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Balol (Bhal) (Muli Desh) on the occasion of 8th Patotsav. 12. Graced Shree Swaminrayan temple, Bhatera (Kapadwanj), on the occasion of invocation of the idol images. 14. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Vavol, on the occasion of Shakotsav. 15. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, (Banaskantha) on the occasion of Shakotsav. 16. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Maniyor (Idar Desh). 19-20. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Mandvi (Kachchh). 21. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Godpar (Kachchh). 22. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Balva, on the occasion of Katha. 23. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Ilol on the occasion of Patotsav. 24. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Dhamasana, on the occasion of Patotsav- Shakotsav. 25. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Karjisan on the occasion of Katha. 26-27. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Dahisara (Kachchh). 29. Graced Kachchh Leuva Patel Samaj, Naranpura. Graced Shree Narnarayandev Yuvak Mandal Satsang Shibir, Motera. Graced village Gothib (Panchmahal) on the occasion of Katha. 31-1 January Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Bhuj, Sukhpar and Sarali village (Kachchh). APPOINTMENT DIARY OF OUR FUTURE ACHARYA 108 SHRI VRAJENDRAPRASADJI MAHARAJ (Deceber- 2013) 8. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Himatnagar on the occasion of Patotsav. 21. Graced Shree Swaminarayan temple, Balva, on the occasion of Katha. 31. Graced the house of the devotee Shri Amrutlal Hargovinddas Patel (On the occasion of Katha at Naranghat) on the occasion of Pothiyatra, Sola. JANUARY-2014 • 05 Gneyoachedhyadilakshanam ||105|| Hrutstha – he who dwells in the heart. Shikshapatri Shruti explains, ‘This Atma (soul) resides in the heart and is the life spirit (Chetan Swaroop).’ The Epistle of Precepts Anushukshma – is as small as an atom and (based on Shatanand’s Shikshapatri not visible to the naked eye. He is smaller than even the point of a sharp tool. Shruti says, ‘If you Arthadipika) split a single hair length ways, the size of the By Pravin S. Varsani sould is a hundredth part of the tip of such split of hair. That Jiva is eternal in form.’ in the Gita, Krishna explains, ‘Of all minute things, I am the Text – 104 sould.’ Vairagya is non-attachment to Chit or Chaitanya – is consciousness or everything except Lord Shree Krishna. animate. It is the life spirit; which illuminates the G n a a n i s c o m p r e h e n s i v e body. God has said,’ Just as a single sun understanding of Jiva (soul), Maya (illusion) provides light for all planets, the Jivatma and Ishwara (God). illuminates the whole body.’ Yagnavalkya explains 72,000 nerves emanate from the V a i r a g y a m G n e y a m a p r i t i h a heart, within which, glowing like the light, Shreekrushnetaravastushu- Vairagya is resides the Atma.’ Vallabhacharya explains, explained in the firswt half of this Shloka. ‘He is luminous, animate and cannot be Vairagya is non-attachment or displeasure in detected by the ordinary senses. He is things other than Lord Shree Krishna. Vairagya conscious in this way through the power of is renouncing all material things that give Yoga.’ pleasure and finding pleasure in devotion to God. Gnaata – He is knowledgeable in the Adhyatmika, Adhibautika nad Adhidaivika Gnanam Cha Jivamayesharupanaam aspects. Sushtu Vedanan – The second half of the Shloka discusses the nature of Gnaan – Gnaanshaktya Akhilam Tanum Vyapya supreme knowledge. Such Gnaan is the Sthitah – pervades the whole body. understadnign of the entities Jiva, Ishwar and Furthermore he pervades the gross, subtle and Maya. causal bodies. Shruti explains, ‘He pervades the whole body, from the hair (of the heard) to Jiva is the in-dweller of the body. It is the life the nails (of the hands and feet).’ force of the body which makes it active- able to walk etc. he is the owner of the body (thus the Achhedyadilakshanah – Has various soul is separate from the body.) qualities such as impiercability. Bhagwat Gita explains these: ‘Weapons do not cleave it, fire Maya is Prakriti or nature and Ishwar is does not burn it, water does not wet it and wind Paramatma or God Supreme. Knowledge of does not dry it. It cannot be cleft; it cannot be these is Gnaan. The Gita explains ‘Knowledge burnt; it cannot be wetted and it cannot be dried. of Kshetra (body) and Kshetrajna (soul) is It is eternal, all-pervading, stable immovable Gnaan.’ Jiva, Maya and Ishwara are briefly and primeval.’ explained over the next three Shlokas. Text – 105 Text – 106 Maya is Trigunatmika. It is full of The Jiva dwells in the heart and is as darkness and is the power of Shree Krishna. It minute as an atom. He is conscious and is the source of creating ego and attachment knowledgeable, by the virtue of subjectivity, he towards the body and relations thereof. pervades the whole body. He is impenetrable, invisible, indivisible, indestructible and eternal. Trigunatma Tamaha Krushnashaktirdehatadiyayoha | Hrutsthoanushukshmaschidrupo Gnaata Vyapyakhilaam Tanum | Jivasya Chahamamamataheturmayaavagamyataam Gnaanashaktya Sthito Jivo ||106|| JANUARY-2014 • 06 Maya’s form is now explained. Maya is experienced God’s Maya, because even I, an Trigunatmak- i.e. it has the qualities (Gunas) of incarnation of that God have become deluded Satva, Raja and Tama. Prakruti (nature) is through Maya. How then can other beings, described as supporting these three qualities. servant to their senses overcome such Maya.’ Bhagwat explains, ‘God, who is devoid of such ‘Maya is very difficult to understand. Not even Gunas, with the aid of Maya containing Good Brahma can comprehend it.’ ‘I, Narad and other and Bad qualities, initiated the creation of the great Munis are unable to comprehend Maya. universe.’ How then can Vamedeva and other Devas The three Gunas are the driving force of understand.,’ such is the incomprehensive nature causing it to change according to the nature of Maya. dominance of a particular Guna. These three Maya has been loosely translated into Gunas, and their descriptive qualities are English as ‘illusion’, however it is much more explained in Mokshadharma: than mere illusion. A proper understanding of The ten qualities of Satva Guna (purity) are Maya is essential as only then can we begin to : overcome the effects of Maya on oneself. (i) Bliss (ii) penance (iii) enlightenment I have taken various notes from Bhagwat’s (iv) intoning (vi) faithful (vii) compassionate (viii) Eleventh Skanda to clarify: Maya is the power donating (ix) God like (x) contentment. that offers enjoyment and suffering by virtue of The nine qualities of Rajo Guna (activity) their Karma it is inherent in all through the mind are : and the senses providing the Jiva with objects (i) Unsteadiness (ii) no compassionate (iii) of enjoyment. All have it as the body is made affected by pleasure and pain (iv) finds from Prakriti that has the three Gunas within it, difference (v) worldly aims of life (vi) lustful (vii) which derive Maya. Maya works with the organs intoxicated (viii) vain (ix) talking too much. of action generating new tendencies, providing pleasures and pain. It is illusive in nature The eight qualities of Tamo Guna causing that which is wrong seem to be right (impurity) are : and vice versa. (i) ignorance (ii) delusion (iii) great delusion In order to overcome Maya, one must live (iv) anger (v) senselessness (vi) slander according to Bhagwat Dharma. They should (vii)neglect (viii) laziness. aim to give up attachment to sense objects and Shrutis explain, ‘Tamo Guna has the form cultivate attachment to holy company of darkness and in this way Maya, which is of (Satsang). They should cultivate kindness, Tama, can be experienced.’ Maya, which is friendliness and humility to others. Observance God’s Shakti (power), is used as a tool for of purity of mind and body, performing duties to purposes of creation etc. Bhagwat explains, please God, being patient and avoiding vain ‘Using his Shakti – Maya, He creates, destroys talks are some of the disciplines of Bhagwat and sustains (the universe).’ Dharma. Maya is the cause of ego and attachment, Shrimad Bhagwat explains that the three which forms within the body and that which is Gunas enter the body through scripture, water, associated with the body – wife, childre, wealth man, place, time, action, initiation, meditation, etc. Association of ‘I’ with the body and ‘Mine’ Mantra, purificatory rites and practices. They with possessions of the body is Maya. ‘O Lord! regulate the growth of the Gunas Satva, Raja In this world, people have become deluded and Tama I man according to the classification through your Maya. They have fallen into acts of each object. For example, consumption of associated with I and Mine.’ ‘Cut off the illusive pure water results into Satva, tasty juices string (Maya) which attaches a person to their results in Raja and liquor results in Tama. children, wife, wealth, property, relations and Paraking in pure water offered to God first will body.’ explains the Bhagwat. result in the nature of Nirguna. In this way, a All are affected by God’s Maya including Nirguna nature should be cultivated to other Deva such a Shankar. In Bhagwat overcome the effects of Maya. Shankarji says, ‘O Devi! You too, have JANUARY-2014 • 07 Yashendrachandrika (35) Rajniti (36) Prithviraj BRAHMA MUNI Raso (37) Rasa, Alamkar, Nayak Bhed, Chitra Kavya, Ashavidya, Jyotish Vidya, Sangit Vidya, Vaid Vidya, Yog Vidyya, Brahm Vidyya, of Pravin Sagar, Sodasvidya, Chosath Vidyan, STUDIED MUCH Shat Vidyan, Sahastra Vidyan. Ladudanji was the only great Kavi who - Purushottamprakashdas (Jetalpurdham) obtained certificates in each of these arts. Mahakavi Ladudanji was the only Mahakavi of Kavi Sadguru Brahmanand Swami, the Bharatvarsha who had obtained certificates in companion of Bhagwan Shree Swaminarayan, more than one thousand arts. Mother tongue was a versatile personality. Other saints were Marvadi, Vidya Bhasha in Vraj Bhasha in Bhuj rendering their services as per their expertise where he stayed and studied for 10 years and and experience in one or the other field. obtained mastery over these arts. After Whereas Sadguru Brahamanand Swami was obtaining the blessings and honour from Guru capable of rendering all types of services as and the king, left Bhuj and came to Dhamadka. and when required. Letter of Shreeji Maharaj There he met Vijay Kushak Bhattacharya, the given to GopBhatt poojari of Ahmedabad disciples if Pandit Kanakkushalji Bhattacharya. temple was brought back very cleverly by There he stayed with Bhattacharya and learnt Brahmanand Swami. Similarly, Muni Bava was the following 24 arts: (1) Geet- types of singing a brought in Gadhda and his Nishchay was song- Sur-taal (2) Vadya- art of playing musical confirmed. The difficult tasks of developing a instruments (3) Nritya- art of dancing (4) Natak temple in Junagadh of Nawab, in Vadtal, in Muli – to present nine Ras through acting (5) Udhyak Desh etc. were accomplished by Brahmanand – to play the instruments filled up with water (6) Swami. It is an interesting fact that, Swami was Art of swimming (7) Hasi Laghav- to play with an expert in various arts. sword and spears (8) Paak – to cook (9) He came to Bhuj at the age of 18 years. Pratalika- art of confusing others (10) Pratimal There Sirohi Maharao and Bhuj Maharao were – art of presence of mind (11) Vanchan- to read in-laws. Maharoao of Lakhpatrai of Bhuj had ancient scripts (12) Natak Khyayika – art of established Pathshala. Shri Abhaydani started seeing the faults of artists of drama (13) study of Pingal Sahitya from Raj Kavi. These Kavyasmshyaputi – answering with poem and are the names of scriptures which were learnt completing with poem (14) Tark-Vaad- to argue by Ladudanji who possessed tremendous logically (15) Rathkala- work of sculpture of memory powers. (1) Anekarthi Nam Mala (2) carpenter (16) Shilp- to prepare and recognize Man Manjari (3) Rupdip Pingal (4) Rasraj (5) secret cellar and routes to preserve the wealth Sundar Shringar (6) Kavi Priya (7) Rasik Priya (17) Rup-ratna- to identify and recognize gems (8) Chamatkar Charika (9) Bhasha Bhushan and diamonds (18) Akshar Mustaka Kathan- to 910) Jagat Vinod 911) Sabha Praksh (12) know about the writing through the movement Shabda Kosh (13) Lakhpat Pingal 914) Hamir of hands of a person writing from a distance (19) Pingal (15) Nag Pinal (16) Chhand Pingal (17) Sukan Kala- benefits and loss associated with Rupdip Pingal (18) Amrut Pingal (19) Khat certain type of movement of our body organs Vidya (20) Ast Vidya (21) Chitra Prabandh (22) (20) Samvachya Kavya- to complete Chhanda, Trakatbandh in Pingal Sahitya (23) Vkat Band Doha, Kavya etc. (21) Abhidhan Kosh- to (24) Shapa Kharu (25) Chintu Lol Zimal (26) understand the symbolic word (22) Chhando Shanor (27) Amrut Dhwani (28) Renki (29) Gyan- number of Chhanda, Matra-Mel, Akshar- Charchari (3) Vachanika (31) Gaj Jagat (32) Con. from page 20...... Avata Charitra (33) Ramayan (34) Pandav JANUARY-2014 • 08 H.H. SHRI MOTA MAHARAJ ONE INTRODUCTIO - Natubhai Patel (Rajpurwala- Canada)

Before returning to Akshardham, Purna-purushottam Shree Swaminarayan Bhagwan discussed and consulted with Sadguru and other saints and adopted sons of his brothers and divided the seat of Shree Swaminarayan Sampradaya in two parts and established them as Shree Narnarayandev Gadi at Ahmedabad and Shree Laxminarayandev Gadi at Vadtal and established his adopted sons as Acharya of these two seats. Thus Shri Ayodhyaprasadji Maharaj became the first Acharya of Shree Narnarayandev Gadi whereas Shri Raghuvirprasadji became was influenced by him and captured his t h e f i r s t A c h a r y a o f S h r e e photographs, prepared a brief note about Laxminarayandev Gadi. Glimpses in brief him. After returning to America, he wrote a of H.H. Shri Mota Maharaj Shri book in which he has referred to Tejendraprasadji Maharaj the Sixth “I am very much impressed by incarnation of Aadi Acharya Shri Dharmacharya Shri Tejendraprasadji. Ayodhyaprasadji Maharaj is narrated here. Very smiling and attractive face, simple Many years ago American writer and straightforward way of talking, William had visited India. He wanted to great and yet humble life replete with write something about spiritual India- spirituality. I reverently bow down to spiritual knowledge and religious heads him. My belief, how a spiritual priest associated with them. He had heard much should be ends here. I feel very lucky in about the spiritual Dharmgurus (priests) of my life.” India. He visited many places in India, met After some time he came and attended thousands of such priests but he returned invocation ceremony of Detroit (Michigan- home in vain. He did not found anybody U.S.A.) and bowed down at the lotus like upto his satisfaction. In his search, he came feet of H.H. Shri Mota Maharaj Shri Swaminarayan temple, Kalupur, Tejendraprasadji Maharaj. Under the Ahmedabad, and this visit ended and auspices of H.H. Shri Tejendraprasadji concluded his search. Maharaj as Acharya, many such temples He met H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj Shri were established and developed in the Tejendraprasadji Maharaj, a noble, simple, country and in abroad through which many straightforward and innocent personality schools and educational institutions were and yet very unusual person having natural established, an energy was given to the power of attracting people towards him, society to get rid of evils like addiction and possession rich reservoir of spiritual other ailments of mind, support and knowledge. William met H.H. Shri Acharya services were provided at the time of Maharaj Shri Tejendraprasadji Maharaj, JANUARY-2014 • 09 natural calamities. Swaminarayan why such pain was taken, he answered our Sampradaya was spread and propagated forefathers have kept us here to bring light in America, Australia, New Zealand, wherever there is darkness. How great and Canada, Arab countries, Africa, England simple is the understanding. and showed to live Sattvik life to the Indian Before some years, left the seat of people residing there. Acharya of Sampradaya, but did not retire. In the year 1978 went to the United Took up the bigger task of developing ultra- States of the American continent and modern type Museum, where all things of started a great campaign due to which a Prasadi of Shreeji Maharaj are preserved. number of temples were established there Not only this, things of daily pooja which and an organization like I.S.S.O. was were received by him from his forefathers established and many noble activities have also been kept there and now has started through it. Even today at the age of been spending time and rendering services 70 years, he has got a very hectic daily for regular maintenance of Museum. Like schedule and still has been imparting any other devotee, H.H. Shri Mota Maharaj correct understanding of Dharma to the also purchases ticket of Rs.20/- to visit the society. He has provided ample guidance Museum. through his speeches delivered at number Before some years, he had performed of places. Some of such examples are pilgrimage of Boston (U.S.A.) and Toronto narrated here. (Canada). Overnight journey of 800 miles When he was Acharya, once he visited was performed in a simple vehicle. During London. There was a ceremony in the the journey, only driver and H.H. Shri Mota temple. One devotee offered in Bhet a Maharaj were awaken, and all others were Rado watch for personal use. As it was sleeping. The next day, early morning H.H. newly constructed temple, there were Shri Mota Maharaj reached Toronto, certain financial constraints with regard to concluded the daily ritual and went off the affairs of the management of the early. How vigilant he was for welfare of temple. H.H. Shri Mota Maharaj grabbed human beings! the opportunity, showed the watch to all the He is very humble and straightforward devotees in the Sabha and made an offer to and it is evidence from his way of life. He is give it as Prasadi. The watch was equal for all, be it a huge crowd, a small accepted by one devotee for 6000 pounds village. Punctuality and timeliness are his and the amount received was offered for idiosyncrasies. the development of the temple. How Before two years, he graced New generous approach and attitude. Jersey, U.S.A. On 11th September and Once H.H. Shri Mota Maharaj had graced one Sabha organized on the bank graced the house of devotees in Michigan of river Hudson where he urged the State of America alongiwith Form of Americans to develop equanimity. Many Thakorji, saints and Haribhaktas. There, Americal officials and American Citizens one electricity bulb did not work properly had attended the said Sabha and it was and it required replacement. There was also noted by Google and Facebook. darkness in the room. But nobody was tall Pen cannot stop while writing about enough to replace the bulb. Then H.H. Shri such a great and unusual personality. His Mota Maharaj offered to replace the bulb, preachings, his services for the welfare of and brought light in the house by replacing the mankind, his pilgrimage are unique in the bulb himself. One Haribhakta asked themselves.

JANUARY-2014 • 10 SATSANG WITH DEW AND FLOWERS OUR PILGRIMAGE TO SIKKIM-DARJEELING ALONGWITH H.H. SHRI MOTA MAHARAJ - Praful Kharsani

H.H. Shri Mota Maharaj is now retired and he enjoys and relishes the events chosen by one woman. She was so much influenced by him. After extracting some time away from the spirituality of H.H. Shri Mota Maharaj that Shree Swaminarayan Museum, H.H. Shri Mota she showed her gratitude in attending us. Maharaj has been moving around all over the One lady, the owner of Calcutta Bids, also world, has been enjoying music and has also have had the same experience. We were been fulfilling his hobby of photography. As moving around in the market of Darjeeling. Acharya, many pilgrimages have been We were busy in shopping and H.H. Shri Mota performed by him. Recently we, about twenty Maharaj stayed there for a while and then five persons got an opportunity to accompany started off towards the hotel. That lady H.H. Shri Mota Maharaj in his pilgrimage of inquired with Sandipbhai about H.H. Shri Sikkim and Darjeeling. Mota Maharaj and she said that, she had had On reaching Sikkim, we all relished the lap spiritual experience of serenity while looking of nature. However, cleanliness of each corner at Him. When she came to know about H.H. of the place was eye-catching. Local people Shri Mota Maharaj from Sandipbhai, she found to be very disciplined following the laws repented for not being able to recognize the very scrupulously. Every common man was great personality. found moving happily there. Drivers of five In another such incident, while walking in vehicles, by which we went to see the water- the market of Dargjeeling, one Japanese fall, go together and collected all wastes and couple had also such an experience. They plastic bottles thrown by the tourists, burnt bowed down to H.H. Shri Mota Maharaj in them and cleaned that space. their Japanese style. When Karsanbhai Generally people living at such a distant asked them whether they knew H.H. Shri places are found to be untidy and very poor and Mota Maharaj, the couple said though they did struggling for their livelihood. But here it was not know anything about Him, they felt quite different. Canvass of the sky was being spirituality and incarnation of God in Him and used by the Nature every second with beautiful therefore they bowed down. colours. There was serenity and it was an We spent ten days in the pious company appropriate place where one can get of H.H Shri Mota Maharaj. We went to Zero Sakshatkar of Bhagwan. Due to our Guru H.H. Point China Border in snow covered areas. Shri Mota Maharaj, we got such an opportunity The divine pleasure was evident when to visit such a divine and serene place. Karsanbhai Raghvani, Vithhalkaka, Kantibhai In Lachung city situated at the height of Patel and Nareshbhai Bhavsar, Rameshbhai 16000 sq. feet, the day appeared very short. were throwing snow upon one another and The owner of the hotel, where we stayed, was relishing themselves. JANUARY-2014 • 11 VACHANAMRIT - Mahadev Dhoriyani

about Maya which is the greatest obstacle in Bhakti. A person who has won over ‘Maya’ is recognized by Sahajanand Swami as Literature helps in building human life. ‘Nishkam Bhakta’ and has stated about four Classic literature only uplifts the human beings types of Mukti. Kaam, Krodh, Lobh, Moh, Mad, at higher level wherein interest and benefit of Matsar are the enemies of . In many all is included. Human mind is cultivated as per Vachanamrits, the way of overcoming these the reading of literature. ‘Vachanamrit’ is one inner enemies has been shown by Sahajanand important scripture of Shree Swaminarayan Swami. This pious ‘Vachanamrit’ is available in Sampradaya. The preachings given through , Hindi, English and Gujarati questionnaire in this book is unique which is languages. very important for those who are interested in This Sampradaya believes in Sagun- religion and philosophy. In all 273 Vachanamrit Bhakti and Upasana is considered to be result are included in it. This scripture contains the oriented. Sahajanand Swami states to perform essence of Bhagwat, Upanishad and the pious ardent Bhakti and to get rid of all such things Gita. Answers to all complicated questions of which come in the way of such Bhakti. The the religion are found in it. The aim of principles of Swaminarayan Sampradaya have Vachanamrit is to inspire the human beings to been explained in a very simple language in b u i l d h u m a n l i f e l e a d i n g t o w a r d s this book. The style of story-telling is very emancipation. Sahajanand Swami has simple and lucid and easy to understand even stressed upon self-discipline and noble for a common man. The readers and listeners behaviour and conduct. feel very intimate. While reading original The preachings given by Shree Vachanamrit, one can get to know about Sahajanand Swami during His vicharan in Gujarati language which was in vogue before - are preserved in two hundred years. This ‘Vachanamrit’ is ‘Vachanamrit’. It is considered to be a prose important in the history of medieval Gujarati and its style is that of questionnaire. Here there literature. These are the words which are is discussion about Gyan, Bhakti, Vairagya uttered from the mouth of Bhagwan and etc. in a very simple language. Thoughts are therefore it is considered to be Amrut-vani of also given in this book about Vedant Gyan, Vachanamrit. The scriptures created from the Dharm-Sadhana and Upasana. It is directed to words uttered by Bhagwan are known as abandon all types of addictions and ‘Shrutis’ and the scriptures created from the importance of Satsant has been reiterated in preachings of Rishis and Munis are known as this book. Sahajanand Swami has stated ‘Smrutis’. ‘Vachanamrit’ is considered to be the about four types of Kusangis- Kudapanthi, gem of and all scriptures. In Vedantpanthi, Shaktipanthi and Nastik. the words of Umashankar Joshi ‘Vachanamrit’ A satsangi devotee should remain devout is the peak of Gujarati literature in prose. in his worship while chanting the name of Bhagwan. He should also be alert and vigilant JANUARY-2014 • 12 BEGINNING POINT OF SHREE SWAMINARAYAN SAMPRADAYA - Jayantibhai K. Soni (Memnagar-Ahmedabad) Ahmedabad, the people residing in the city started talking about the great Tapasvi, who was performing Tapa on the bank of Kankaria lake. Many of these people obtained the preachings of Dharma and Moksha from Shree Hari and gradually they became the devotees. Disciples of Sadguru Ramanand Swami were also performing vicharan in the nearby villages. When they heard about this Bal Yogi, they came Each and every Satsangi devotee knows there and they experienced divine attraction. that, foundation of establishment of Shree Even the British Officers Eran Sir also came to Swaminarayan Sampradaya was established know about and out of curiosity he sent his men for the first time in the world by Bhagwan Shree to bring Shree Hari to his bungalow. Accepting Swaminarayan Himself by getting constructed the ardent invitation of the British Officer, Shree temple at Kalupur in Ahmedabad. Invocation of Hari graced the house of the Officer and during the idol images of Shree Narnarayandev has that meeting, the British Officer offered a piece been performed by Shree Hari on the pious day of land for construction of temple in of Fagan Sud-3 Monday Samvat 1878 and Ahmedabad. 24/02/1822. Shree Narnarayandev has Accordingly, the task of getting the temple incarnated through Dharma and Bhakti. constructed at Ahmedabad was entrusted with Bhagwan Himself has stated that, one should Sadguru Anandanand Swami and when the not see any difference between the idol images temple was ready the idol images of Shree of Shree Narnarayandev and Himself as they Narnarayandev were invoked by Bhagwan are one and the same. Therefore, this temple is Shree Swaminarayan Himself and opened the the best among all the temples established. way of emancipation through Bhakti for all the Aksharadhipati Parmatma resides permanently devotees and Mumukshus. The importance of in the temple and all the Forms which have Shree Narnarayandev has been explained by been invoked in the temples established are Shree Hari Himself and it is stated that, Other Forms of Shree Hari only. There is whosoever comes to the temple and performs nothing like small or big. But since temple of pious Darshan of the divine idol images of Ahmedabad has been established first of all, it Shree Narnarayandev, they would get is very dear to Bhagwan. Otherwise there is no emancipation in their life, Bhagwan always difference in any temple. resides in the idol images and accepts all While stating about the reasons as to why offerings and Bhakti from the devotees. The the foundation of Sampradaya was laid down in devotees who perform Mahapooja, Abhishek, Ahmedabad, it is stated that, in Vikram Samvat Thaal etc. to Shree Narnarayandev and other 1855 when Shreeji Maharaj came to deities of the temple and who shall offer clothes, Ahmedabad as Nilkanthvarni and was meals, ornaments, land, house, etc. Bhagwan performing Tapascharya after taking bath in will give them better fruits of their offerings and Kankaria lake in the southern part of at last they all would get emancipation. JANUARY-2014 • 13 ONE SHOULD CHERISH NISHCHAY LIKE NARUPANT NANA - Gordhanbhai V. Sitapara (Bapunagar-Ahmedabad)

Narupant Nana was private Karbhari of on requesting by Narupant Nanaji, Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwar Government Hanumanji told him,”Now Radhikaji and of Vadodara. He was the follower of Shakat Laxmiji are the goddesses of your worship Path and Mahisasuri and Chamunda and Bhagwan Shree Swaminarayan is goddesses had granted divine Darshan to Purna Purushottam. You shall regularly go him. The idol images of these deities were to Shri Gopalanand Swami, who is the established in his house by his forefathers. disciple of Shree Hari, shall obtain With the directions of Shree Hari Vartaman and shall perform pooja of Shree Sadguru Shri Gopalanand Swami stayed in Hari regularly.” following the directions, Vadodara for Satsang in Vadodara. With Narupantji removed the idol images and the preachings and vicharan of Swami, other things of poojan-archan of the thousands of people became devotees of goddesses from his house and became Bhagwan Shree Swaminarayan. To know ardent devotee of Shree Hari by accepting the facts about this, the Gaiekwar the idol image of Shree Hari. Government sent his officer Narupant Nana Saheb had one son named Nana to Gopalanand Swami. In the Sabha, Bapu. Once Bapu became very sick. His Swamiji offered a front seat to Narupant mother told Nana Saheb that, since they Nanaji and explained Form of Mahamaya, had removed the pooja of the goddesses Form of Bhagwan, four types of Pralay, from their house, their son had become sick Dham of Bhagwan etc. this removed the and she requested to pray to goddesses to ignorance of Narupant Nanaji. save their son. But Nana Saheb, who was With the desire of Shree Hari, the firm in his worship of Shree Hari, told his goddesses came in the dream of Narupant wife that they shall pray to Shree Hari and Nanaji at night, granted him divine Darshan then result would be as per the wish of a n d t o l d h i m , “ W h i l e c h a n t i n g Shreeji Maharaj. At this, Shree Hari came ‘ S w a m i n a r a y a n ’ ‘ S w a m i n a r a y a n ’ and granted him divine Darshan. Nana Hanumanji and Ganpatiji have come to Saheb was mentally prepared even if them and informed them that with the Shree Hari would take away his son Bapu preachings of Shri Gopalanand Swami, to Akshardham. But the Nand saints, who Narupant Nanaji has become an ardent accompanied Shree Hari, requested Shree devotee of Bhagwan Shree Swaminarayan Hari not to take away Bapu to Akshardham and hence asked us to go away. Hence We otherwise those who oppose of Shree Hari inform you that, now you shall chant the would make fun of Nana Saheb. Shree Hari name of Shree Hari and remove our idol accepted the request of the saints and images from your house as now you no Bapu was cured and saved from the fatal more require them to worship. And hence disease. Later on Bapu and his mother now we shall go away from your house.” Girijabai also became ardent Satsangi devotees of Shree Hari. JANUARY-2014 • 14 Shree Swaminarayan Museum

As per noble aim of Shreeji Maharaj, the Nand Saints had studied Vedas and Upanishadas and created the scriptures for our Sampradaya. Some of these saints used to wear spectacles while creating the scriptures. Spectacles of Sadguru Nityanand Swami has been kept in Hall No.2 of Shree Swaminarayan Museum. Moreover, more than 500 manuscripts created by the Nand Sains have also been kept for divine Darshan in our Museum. At present work of preserving all such manuscripts and books through Vedic method and work of their digitization by scanning through computer is going on. All other hand-written books have been kept in Hall No.9 of the Museum for divine Darshan. 3rd Sthapana Din of Shree Swaminarayan Museum With the directions and blessings of H.H. Shri Acharya 1008 Shri Koshalendraprasadji Maharaj and H.H. Shri Mota Maharaj, beautiful Mahapooja Mahabhishek is proposed to be organized in the Main Hall of our Museum in the afternoon on Monday 03/03/2014 on the occasion of Sthapana Din of our Museum and Annual Patotsav of Shree Narnarayandev. An amount of Rs.11,000/- and Rs.5,000/- have been determined for rendering the services as host and co-host, respectively. The devotees who intend to avail the benefit this divine occasion, may contact the office in person. Mob. No. 9925042686 (Dasbhai) Phone No.: 079-27489597

JANUARY-2014 • 15 List of devotees who rendered their services under Shree Swaminarayan Museum Maintenance Bhet Yojna December-2013 Rs.91,154/- Charant-Bhet offered to Haribhakta, Ahmedabad. H.H. Shri Mota Maharaj Rs.11,000/- Joshi Jaswantlal A. - during pilgrimage to Ahmedabad. Bolton is deposited in Rs.11,000/- Zavervbhai Vallabhbhai the Museum. Thumar, Approach- Rs.50,686/- Devotees of Bolton, Bapunagar. U.K. Have deposited Rs.11,111/- Shakriben Dahyabhai towards Abhishek- Patel-Danarva, through Mahapooja of Shree Pareshbhai Dahyabhai. Rs.11,000/- Shri Nadoda Rajput Narnarayandev in Shree Samaj Karmchari Swaminarayan Museum. Rs.50,000/- Devotee Shri Naranbhai Mandal, Balol (Bhal) Rs.11,000/- Dhirajbhai Karsanbhai Ramjibhai Panchani Patel-Ahmedabad. family, Dahisara Rs.10,000/- Harjivan Karsandas (Kachchh) at present Patel-Kadi, throgh Dr. Bolton (U.K.) Dineshbhai (For Rs.12,000/- One Satsangi November-2013 month) 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. List of Host devotees who availed the benefit of Abhishek of Shree Narnarayandev in Shree Swaminarayan Museum December-2013 08/12/2013 Hitesh Rameshbhai Gusani-Naranpura. 22/12/2013 (Morning) Dr. Narendrabhai D. Bhavsar-Mahesana. (Evening) Bhimji Ramji Hirani-Baladiyawala (at present East London) 27/12/2013 Patel Chhanbhai Cheldas-Saij (Kalol). 29/12/2013 Shree Swaminarayan temple, Woolwich (U.K.) 31/12/2013 Jitesh Nathabhai Vekariya-Rampar Vekra ( London) through Manjulaben, Sanat, Purvi, Rajan and mother Shri Radhaben.

Museum Mobile : 98795 49597 Devotee Shri Parshottambhai (Dasbhai, Bapunagar) : Mobile No. 99250 42686 www.swaminarayanmuseum.org/com email:[email protected]

JANUARY-2014 • 16 UNITY IS THE ROOT OF ALL HAPPINESS - Shastri Haripriyadasji (Gandhinagar) Answer of one question is always affirmative. The question is : Do you want to remain happy? And we all know that it’s answer is ‘YES’. Here is one story which tells us as to what should we do to remain happy in our life. There was an old man. Four generations of the same family were residing together in a SATSANG BALVATIKA joint family. Sons, grand sons and great grand Compiler Shastri Harikesavdasji (Gandhinagar) sons of the old man were all living together. In all there were thirty five persons but there was goddess Laxmiji, would be acceptable to all of only one kitchen. All were living happily with us.” the old man did not sleep at night. At unity. This also brought prosperity in their midnight the goddess Laxmiji again came and family and life. They all were living a joyous told him, “Now, tell me what you want from life. me, before I leave your home.” at this the old The old man was eighty eight years old. man replied, “Oh goddess Laxmiji! I bow down Once an incident occurred. The old man was at your lotus like feet. So far our family has sleeping at night. He found light in his room. remained united and therefore we all have He woke up and saw that goddess Laxmiji was been happy. I want that you grant us unity in standing in front of him. The old man was an our home forever.” at this demand, the face of ardent devotee of goddess Laxmiji and the goddess Laxmiji became pale. She said therefore, the goddess granted him divine in a very low tone, “You have demanded unity. Darshan. The old man bowed down at the And I reside at places where there is unity. lotus like feet of the goddess. The goddess And therefore, now I cannot go away from told the old man that, she has stayed at his your house.” The old man very cleverly home for so many years and now she is tired ensured happiness, unity and resultant and therefore she wants to go away. And wealth for his family forever. This was made therefore, he may ask for one last and final possible due to unity in the family. Therefore, boon from her before she goes away. The old Tulsidasji has stated: man was very clever. He told the goddess • Laxmiji that, since this decision has a great BHAKTAVATSAL BHAGWAN impact upon his whole family, he requires to - Sadhu Shrirangdas (Gandhinagar) consult his family. And therefore, he requested There are certain things in life, which are to grant him time of one day. The goddess unbelievable to a common human logic. It is Laxmiji granted him the time, as requested. beyond common sense of a layman. Here is The next day in the morning, the old man one such incident. called all of his family members and narrated There was one village named Bhensjaal. them what happened last night. At this, the There was very good Satsang in this village. It ladies members of the family started was the time of Shreeji Maharaj. One devotee discussing as to what should be demanded in named Ranakaya was residing in this village the boon. Some said, agricultural land should Bhensjaal. There was divinity in his house. be demanded, others said gold and gold His real sister had also become ardent ornaments should be demanded. In this way devotee. She decided to remain bachelor discussion continued for two to three hours but throughout her life and not to get married. She without any unanimous decision in this regard. also decided to serve Satsang for the whole At last, the sons of the old man, who were life by rendering her ardent services and to very prudent, left the decision to be taken by perform Bhakti of Shreeji Maharaj with utmost him, as they all trusted him. The sons asked faith. the old man, “Since you have rears us all well, One day she fell down, and broke her we trust you. Whatever, you demand from the Con. from page 20...... JANUARY-2014 • 17 FROM THE BLESSINGS OF H.H. SHRI GADIWALA ‘NARNARAYANDEV IN AHMEDABAD’ - Compiled by Kotak Varsha Natvarlal- Ghodasar There was a big forest admeasuring thirty sq. k.m. around the river Sabarmati BHAKTI-SUDHA (Naranghat). This area has been referred to as ‘Dharmaranya’ in Padma-Purana. At this place were created. As a result the world got the Dharmdev and Bhaktidevi started severe great gift of ‘Vachanamrit’. Tapascharya. After twelve years, Bhagwan Later on as per the desire and demand of came granted them divine Darshan and told the ardent devotees like Laldas Gora, them to ask for the boon. At this Murtidevi told, Hirachand Choksi, Shree Hari directed Shri “Oh Bhagwan! Grant me the blessings of four Anandanand Swami to establish temple in sons like you.” Bhagwan blessed them and Ahmedabad (Shreenagar). In his Purvashram said, ‘Tathastu.’ accordingly, after some time in Anandanand Swami was the king Vaivasvat Manvantar, in Uttara Falguni Ranmansinh of Bharatpur of and he Nakshatra and on the pious day of Falgan Vad- was an ardent devotee of Bhagwan Shree 1 Bhagwan incarnated in four Forms at the . And therefore, he had left everything house of Dharmdev and Bhaktimata. Rishi and had come in Ayodhya and was performing Markandeya named them as Nar, Narayan, Tapa at the bank of the pious river Sarayu. Hari and Krishna. Though Nar and Narayan The king of Ayodhya once required the appear different, but actually they are one and assistance of one Rajguru. When he heard the same spiritually. about Anandanand Swami, he sent the offer explains this in ‘Bhakta Chintamani’. with messenger to accept the seat of Rajguru “Aku íkku yufLku rËMkku Aku ËkuÞ, of his kingdom, but Anandanand Swami íkuLkku ¼uË òýu sLk fkuÞ” refused the same very humbly. At this the king Thereafter, Upanayan Samskaras were asked him to become Matthadhipati so that all performed, Diksha Vidhan was performed and the people and devotees can get the divine then, Narnarayandev went to Badrikashram to benefit of preachings of the sermons, which perform Tapascharya and so Hari and Krishna would help them to get emancipation in their asked Dharmdev and Bhaktimata that now they life. Accordingly, Anandanand Swami shall live as per the desire of Dharmdev and became Matthadhipati of Ayodhya. Bhaktimata. The parents granted permission One night, Bhagwan Shree Rama to live in Grihasthashram. Hence Shree Hari granted divine Darshan to Anananand Swami stayed in Vaikunth as Laxminarayan and in his dream and asked him to go to Gujarat, if Bhagwan Krishna stated in Golok as he wanted to perform divine Darshan of Radhakrishna. Now what was the purpose of Bhagwan. Accordingly, Anandanand Swami incarnation of Bhagwan Shree Swaminarayan came to Gujarati and on further inquiry came to upon this earth? The purpose was to establish Gadhpur, where Maharaj was sitting in the Ekantik Dharma upon the earth so that even Darbar. In the Sabha, Anandanand Swami after Bhagwan returns to His Dham, the took his seat and after some time he devotees and common men can get performed divine Darshan of Bhagwan Shree emancipation in their life through ardent Rama in Maharaj. After some time, Maharaj worship and Bhakti by chanting the name of granted him Saint-Diksha. Thus from Shree Hari. For this, temples were established Matthadhipati, he became Anandanand in our Satsang, scriptures were created, seat of Swami and thereafter, as per the directions of Acharya was established. The preachings of Shree Hari, Anandanand Swami came to Maharaj were preserved by , Ahmedabad alongwith other fourteen saints Gopalanand Swami, Brahmanand Swami, for the purpose of constructing temple. Nityanand Swami and Sukanand Swami and However, he was worried about money. At accordingly the scriptures of our Sampradaya night, Shree Hari granted him divine Darshan JANUARY-2014 • 18 in his dream and showed him how to construct Karanibai had plucked out eighteen thorns from the temple, the image and design of the temple the feet of Shreeji Maharaj. This Karaniba also was also shown to him in the dream. Swamiji belonged to this village Dhamadaka. was very intelligent and therefore, he This Dhamadaka the place of Prasadi has remembered everything. been destroyed in the earthquake but the The temple was made ready following the history of the village is still live in the scriptures directions of Shree Hari scrupulously. The of our Sampradaya. There is one incident which construction work of the temple was completed is unique in the life span of 49 years of Shreeji in just one and half year. Thereafter, message Maharaj. Once Shreeji Maharaj graced the was sent to Maharaj to perform the ritual of house of the devotee Karniba. Karniba and invocation of the idol images. At that time, other ladies devotees were there in the house. Maharaj was in Loya; there Mayaram Bhatt No any male devotee was present at home. At suggested the Muhurt (appropriate time) to this Shreeji Maharaj was hesitant to enter the perform the ritual of invocation of the idol house. Then, Maharaj asked the devotee images. Accordingly, it was decided to perform Karniba to give him the clothes of a lady. When the ritual of invocation on the pious day of the clothes were offered, Maharaj wore them Fagan Sud Trij. As the earth cannot bear the and sat in the middle of all the ladies devotees weight of Bhagwan, Form of Kachba (tortoise) and directed Karniba to tell anybody who comes of Bhagwan is invoked and stone is placed there that Maharaj is not there. upon this form of tortoise, which is incarnation After some time Brahamanand Swami of Bhagwan. And the throne of Shree came there in search of Maharaj. When Narnarayandev is established upon the stone Brahmanand Swami inquired with Karniba and thereafter, the idol images of Shree about Maharaj, Karniba said that Maharaj was Narnarayandev have been invoked and placed not there. But smart and intelligent upon the throne by Bhagwan Shree Brahmanand Swami recognized Maharaj, who Swaminarayan Himself. With this idol images of was sitting in the middle of all the ladies Dharmadev, Bhakti Mata and Harikrishna devotees, wearing the clothes of a lady Maharaj have also been invoked in the temple devotee. The words uttered by Brahmanand and accordingly, the first spiritual centre of our Swami at this moment read as under: Sampradaya was established. íÞkhu ïuík ð† WíkkÞko hu, økkuÃke çkLkeÞk røkhÄkhe. “ðnk÷u y{ËkðkË{kt ykðe S hu, ðk÷u ÷k÷ ð† íkLk ÄkÞko hu, økkuÃke çkLkeÞk røkhÄkhe. «økx feÄwt ©e çkrÿÄk{ ÃknuÞkuo ½k½hzku Äuhk¤ku hu, økkuÃke çkLkeÞk røkhÄkhe. sLk ykðu òuðkLku Ëuþ ËuþLkk S hu, þku¼u ft[ðku fk{ýøkkhku hu, økkuÃke çkLkeÞk røkhÄkhe. þku¼u «u{kLktËLkku ~Þk{.” rþh økwtÚkeÞwt ÃkxeÞk Ãkkze hu, økkuÃke çkLkeÞk røkhÄkhe. In Badrikashram Shree Narnarayandev Lkðhtøk ykuZkze Mkkze hu, økkuÃke çkLkeÞk røkhÄkhe. have been performing Tapascharya for the fnu çkúñkLktË yrík þku¼u hu, økkuÃke çkLkeÞk røkhÄkhe. welfare and emancipation of the devotees and òuE Mk¾eÞwtLkk {Lk ÷ku¼u hu, økkuÃke çkLkeÞk røkhÄkhe. the fruits (result) of this Tapa is being enjoyed by the devotees even today. Thus, we have got • everything so easily that, now nothing more is SADHU OF ‘MAA’ required to be done. No special efforts are - Patel Labhuben Manubhai (Kundal, Tal. required. So we have to ardent perform Bhakti Kadi) of Bhagwan. One old woman of Kathi caste was residing • in Gundali village. She had two sons, and both GOPI BECAME GIRDHARI of them were doing agriculture. The old woman - Janki Nikimumar Patel (Ghatlodiya) was satsangi. However, her sons were not In village Dhamadka of Kachchh, Brahma ardent devotees. Muni has studied. There he also met one Jogi Once a Sadhu came to the house in the who told him that he would meet Bhagwan at evening. The old woman offered him the raw this place only. Once Bhagwan Shree material to prepare the meals of Khichadi. Swaminarayan graced the village bare-footed. Sadhu started preparing Khichdi upon the JANUARY-2014 • 19 Chula of bricks. The Mukhi of the village and a man can drive away ‘Sadhu’ of their ‘Maa’ other villagers heard about it and immediately (mother)!!! they immediately, sent his mother to came to the house of the old woman. The Mukhi another village with all luggages and then both of the village ordered the old woman to drive of them rushed to the place where Mukhi was away the Sadhu. At this the old woman sitting. The exchange of hot words between the requested him that this Sadhu would go away two sons and Mukhi and his men resulted into a the next day. But the Mukhi was intent upon to scuffle and the two sons chopped off the head drive Sadhu away from the village at that of Mukhi with their swords. They also received moment only. Therefore, he kicked the utensil similar blows of swords and sacrificed their lives in which Sadhu was preparing Khichdi. for the sake of Sadhu of ‘Maa’. Since they Khichdi was spilled over the floor and fought for the cause of Dharma, they got Sadhu went away blessing the old woman. The emancipation in their life. Though there is no Mukhi also went away. The old woman was reference as to what were the names of these crying. After some time, her two sons came two sons, our scripture, ‘Vachanamrit’ from the farm and they saw their mother crying. remembers them in one line as ‘Two Kathi At this they asked for the reason and the old Haribhaktas of Gundali village.” This is the woman narrated everything. Though these two importance of keeping the Paksha of Bhagwan sons were not ardent devotees but they felt how in life. Con. on page 17 hand. The doctors came and diagnosed that, Listening to her ardent prayer, Shreeji her hand cannot work normally. There was Maharaj came and granted her divine Darshan. great pain in her hand. On further inquiry, the Maharaj touched her hand and the broken bone relatives of the devotee found that there was of the hand was repaired. When the relatives one Vaidya in village Chuda. It was decided to brought the cart for their journey to Chuda, the take the devotee sister to the Vaidya at Chuda. devotee sister showed them her normal hand. But this devotee sister refused to go there, At his all of her relatives were surprised. They as it would break her Dharma of Sankhya Yogi praised her ardent Bhakti of Shreeji Maharaj. devotee. The relatives insisted her to go to The message that we have to learn from Chuda to Vaidya, otherwise her broken hand this real story is that, if we ardently perform would not be cured. At this devotee sister Bhakti to Bhagwan, our Bhagwan definitely started praying to Maharaj with tears in her listens to it and also helps in our genuine eyes: difficulties. So let us be real devotees and “{tøk÷{qŠík {nk«¼w, MknòLktË, Mkw¾ÁÃk, perform our ardent Bhakti to our dear Bhagwan ¼ÂõíkÄ{o Mkwík ©enrh, Mk{Y MkËkÞ yLkwÃk.” Shree Swaminarayan.

Con. on page 8

Bhed etc. (23) Kriya Vikalp- to preserve the Sukra Niti, Vidur Niti, Chanakya Niti, Angal meals for long time and not to allow them to Niti, Raj Niti etc. were studied by Brahmanand spoil and the art of identifying the poison from Swami. When Ladudanji met Maharaj in the meals. (24) Akarshi Kriya – Kasarat, Kusti, Gadhpur for the first time, he offered all his Pattabaji, Yuddha Patta. In this way there are knowledge at the lotus like feet of Maharaj and 64 Kalas which are famous in our scriptures. accepted Dasatva of Maharaj. The temptation Ladudanji stayed in Dhamadka for two years to given by the Nawab of Junagadh to get the learn main 24 Kalas out of these sixty four temple constructed at the cost of the State, if Kalas. Karaniba, the sister-in-law of Maharao One Doho is created for Nawab, was not was Samadhinishtha, who had already told accepted by Brahmanand Swami as all arts and that, Ladudanji would render services to knowledge were meant for rendering ardent Satsang as Brahmanand. services to Bhagwan Shree Swaminarayan. JANUARY-2014 • 20 Dhanur Maas Dhoon Mahotsav in Shree Swaminarayan temple, Ahmedabad In the pious presence of Shri Narnarayandev and the whole Dharmkul, and in the pious presence of the Brahmnishtha saints and large number of devotees and Haribhaktas, pious Dhanurmaas Dhoon (Chicago) and Sadguru Shastri Swami th Mahotsav has started from 16 December in Abhayprakashdasji Guru Mahant Swami our Shree Swaminarayan temple, Kalupur, Devprakashdaji (Washington). Sadguru Shastri Ahmedabad. Despite severe cold, children and Swami Balswaroopdasji (Muli) had performed aged devotees and Haribhaktas do not miss to Samhita Patha.. avail the benefit of divine Dhoon of Shree H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj graced this Swaminarayan Mahamantra. This is a special occasion on 24/12/2013 and blessed all the month to perform special Bhakti of Bhagwan. devotees. H.H. Shri Gadiwala and H.H. Shri Thousands of monthly Dhoon have been Mota Gadiwala also blessed all the ladies registered for this pious month. Dhoon is also devotees. Saints of various places had also performed in the names of the deities of the granted divine benefit. Shakotsav was also inner temple and Dharmkul. Sadguru Mahant celebrated with great fervour and enthusiasm. Shastri Swami Harikrishnadasji and Kothari In the series of lectures organized on this Parshad Digambar Bhagat have made occasion, Shastri Purnaprakashdasji (Dholka), beautiful arrangements and the whole Sabha Shastri Swami Narayanvallbhdasji (Vadnagar), Mandap has been decorated very beautifully. Shastri Swami Ramkrishnadasji (Moti Aadraj) S e r v i c e s o f B r a h m c h a r i S w a m i and Swami Dharmpravartakdasji had delivered Rajeshwaranandji, J.K. Swami, Yogi Swami, their beautiful lectures. At last Sadguru Mahant Bhakti Swami, Ram Swami and all saint- Shastri Swami Harikrishnadasji also delivered parshad Mandal and devotees were very very inspirational lecture.(Kothari, Dhamasana) inspirational and praiseworthy. 9th Skanda (Ram Charitra) Saptah Parayan The the host devotees of monthly Dhoon at Motera have been offered beautiful Travelling bag and With the directions and blessings of HH. the host devotees of daily Dhoon have been Shri Acharya Mahraj and the whole Dharmkul offered Prasad in Bhet. (Shastri Swami and with the guidance of Sadguru Mahant Narayanmunidas) th Shastri Swami Purushottamprakashdasji and Katha Parayan and 9 Shakotsav at with the noble aim of devotee Shri Kamlaben Dhamasana on the occasion of Mahotsav Ambalal Patel, 9th Skanda Ram Charitra Saptah of Shree Narnarayandev Parayan (night) of Shrimad Bhagwat Shastra With the directions and blessings of H.H. was organized from 30/12/2013 to 05/01/2014 Shri Acharya Maharaj, HH. Shri Mota Maharaj at village Motera in the memory of Akshar and H.H. Shri Future Acharya Maharaj and with Nivasi Savitaben Bhailalbhai. Divine Shakotsav the inspiration of Sankhya Yogi Shri Gangaba was also organized on this occasion. Sadguru and Sankhya Yogi Kamlaba, Katha of Shree Shastri Swami Ramkrishndasji (Koteshwar Hari Aaishwarya Darshan under Shrimad Gurukul) was the spokesperson of this Bhaktchintamani was organized from Parayan. 20/12/2013 to 24/12/2013 at our Shree H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj graced the Swaminarayan temple, Dhamasana, the pious concluding ritual of Parayan and performed place of Prasadi and birth place of Sadguru divine Vaghar of Shakotsav. Sadguru Mahant Gurucharanratanand Swami.Sadguru Shastri Shastri Swami Harikrishnadasji, Sadguru Swami Ramkrishnadasji and Shastri Swami Mahant Swami Devprakashdasji had also Chaitanyaswaroopdasji (Koteshwar Gurukul) remained present on this divine occasion. The were the spokespersons of this Katha. The whole arrangement was made on behalf of the inspiration for the whole programme was given family of Akshar Nivasi Purushottamdas by Sadguru Swami Jayprakashdasji Guru Haribhai Patel and Akshar Nivasi Ishwarbhai Sadguru Mahant Swami Harikrishnadasji otibhai Patel. The sabha was condcuted by JANUARY-2014 • 21 Shastri Chaitanya Swami. (Kothari, Motera) (Koteshwar Gurukul) was the spokesperson of 11th Patotsav-Parayan and offering of main this Parayan. This Parayan was organized by gate in Shree Swaminarayan temple, Somabhai Sendhidas Patel, Jitendra Somabhai Karjisan Patel etc. families. Sadguru Mahant Shastri With the directions and blessings of H.H. Swami Harikrishnadasi and Sadguru Mahant Shri Achaya Maharaj and with the inspiration of Swami Devprakashdasji (Naranghat) had Shastri Swami Narayanvallbhdasji (Mahant of performed the concluding ritual of Katha. Vadnagar temple), 11th Patotsav of Shree (Shastri Swami Chaitanyaswaroopdasji) Swaminarayan temple, Karjisan was Vachanamrit Katha Parayan in Shree celebrated with great fervour and enthusiasm. Swaminarayan temple, Naranghat, on the On this occasion Shrimad Bhagwat Panchanh occasion of Shree Narnarayandev Parayan was organized from 21/12/2013 to Mahotsav 25/12/2013 for which devotee Patel Joitaram With the directions and blessings of H.H. Tribhovandas and Divaliben Joitaram Patel Shri Acharya Maharaj and the whole Dharmkul rendered their beautiful services. Sadguru and with the inspiration of Sadguru Mahant Shastri Swami Ramkrishnadasji and Sadguru Swami Devprakashdaji and Sadguru Mahant Shastri Swami Chaitanyaswaroopdasji Swami Purushottamprakashdasji (Naranghat) (Koteshwar Gurukul) were the spokespersons and with the noble aim of the devotee Shri of this Parayan. Amrutlal Hargovinddas Kandas Patel and On 25/12/2013, H.H. Shri Acharya devotee Shri Shardaben Amrutlal Patel and the Maharaj graced the occasion and performed devotee Shri Alpaben Amrutlal, Panchanh the concluding ritual of Katha. On this occasion, Parayan of Vachanamrit was organized from main gate of the temple was also offered and 31/12/2013 to 04/01/2014. Sadguru Shastri laid open for daily use. Thereafter, H.H. Shri Swami Nirgundasji was the spokesperson of Acharya Maharaj performed Annakut aarti of this Parayan, whose benefit was availed by the Thakorji and graced the Sabha organized on large number of devotees and Haribhaktas. On the occasion. 04/01/2014, H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj graced The whole arrangement was made under the occasion of concluding ritual of Parayan and t h e g u i d a n c e o f S a d g u r u S w a m i blessed the whole Sabha as well as the host Devprakashdasji and Sadguru Shastri Swami devotees. Devotee Shri Anilkumar Amrutlal Purushottamprakashdasji (Mahant of Patel and Hineben Anilkumar Patel (Dangarva, Naranghat) and Sadguru Shastri Swami at present in U.S.A.) family had rendered the Madhavpriyadasji. Sadguru Mahant Shastri services as the host of this Parayan. On this Swami Harikrishnadasi, Shastri Swami occasion Mahant Sadguru Shastri Swami Vishwaprakashdasji (Vadnagar) and Poojari Harikrishnadasji, Brahmchari Swami Parshad Jasu Bhagat had also remained R a j e s h w a r a n a n d j i , S h a s t r i S w a m i present on this divine occasion. The host Narayanvallabhdasji had also remained devotees and Haribhaktas had availed the p r e s e n t . ( S h a s t r i S w a m i benefit of this divine occasion. Chaitanyaswaroopdasji) (Kothari, Karjisan) Celebration of grand Shakotsav in Shree Shrimad Bhagwat Saptah Parayan at Camp Swaminarayan temple, Vadnagar Road, Ahmedabad With the directions and blessings of H.H. With the directions and blessings of H.H. Shri Acharya 1008 Shri Koshalendraprasadji Shri Acharya Maharaj and with the inspiration of Maharaj and with the guidance of Mahant S a d g u r u S h a s t r i S w a m i Sadguru Shastri Swami Narayanvallbhdasji of Purushottamprakashdasji (Mahant of Vadnagar temple, grand Shakotsav was Naranghat), Shrimad Bhagwat Katha Parayan organized on 06/12/2013. H.H. Shri Acharya (night) was organized from 24/12/2013 to Maharaj graced this occasion and performed 30/12/2013 at Camp Road Shahibaug, Aarti of Thakorji and also graced Shree Ahmedabad, with the noble aim of Akshar Sahjanand Gurukul. Devotee Dr. Pareshbhai Nivasi Sendhabhai Joitaam Patel and Joitaba. Gajjar and Dilipbhai Gajjar family sons of Sadguru Shastri Swami Ramkrishnadasji Akshar Nivasi Gajjar Rajnikant Ranchhodlal JANUARY-2014 • 22 (Pethapur) had rendered the services as the 6.15 hours during the pious Dhanur Maas in our host of this Shakotsav. Devoteees Shri Shree Swaminarayan temple, Kaliyana. Dhoon Harshadkumar, Sudhirkumar (son-in-law), for half an hour is organized on every Sunday Dipakkuar and Ashinkumar (Visnagar) of Modi and Ekadashi. On the pious day of Uttarayan, Haribhai Shamaldas family performed poojan- Zoli is performed by all the devotees in the aarti and obtained the blessings of H.H. Shri village and all things received are sent to A c h a r y a M a h a r a j . P o o j a r i S w a m i Ahmedabad temple. (Arjanbhai Mori) Abhishekprasaddasji got performed the ritual of Shatabdi Mahotsav in Shree Shakotsav by H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj. In the Swaminarayan temple, Manipur (Kadi) Sabha organized on the occasion, Kothari With the directions and blessings of H.H. Shastri Swami Vishwaprakashdasji and Kothari Shri Acharya 1008 Shri Koshalendraprasadji Shastri Yagnaprakashdasji (Kankaria) had Maharaj and with the inspiration of Sadguru explained the importance of Shakotsav. Shastri Swami P.P. Swami (Mahant of Young devotees of Shree Narnarayandev Naranghat temple) Shatabdi Mahotsav of Yuvak Mandal performed poojan-aarti and Shree Swaminarayan temple, Manipur (Kadi) obtained the blessings of H.H. Shri Acharya was organized from 17/12/2013 to 19/12/2013. Maharaj. On this occasion devotee Shri Pothiyatra, Nagaryatra of Thakorji and Somabhai D. Modi (Pramukh of Nagarpalika), Sharimad Bhagwat Dasmi Skanda Parayan Shri Sunilbhai Mehta and Shri I.M.Bhavsar with Sadguru Shastri Swami Ramkrishnadasji Saheb performed Swagat of H.H. Shri Acharya (Koteshwar Gurukul) were organized on this Maharaj. At last H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj occasion. On the occasion 100th Patotsav of blessed the whole Sabha. Thakorji, ritual of Abhishek of was performed by Services of devotees Shri Kalidas J. Patel, the saints. H.H. Shri Mota Maharaj had graced Shri Gunvantbhai Bhavsar, Shri Budhalal Patel, this divine occasion (after 33 years) and the Ravi Sutha, Bhupit, Jay, Vipul and Kachhi saints and Haribhaktas had performed grand Haribhaktas was very inspirational. Samaiyu. (Modi Navinchandra M.) Thereafter, H.H. Shri Mota Maharaj had Celebration of 11th Patotsav-Parayan of performed Annakut Aarti and had also Shree Swaminarayan temple, Dangarva performed aarti in Ramji temple and at last With the directions and blessings of H.H. blessed the whole Sabha. (Dhanvant B. Patel) Shri Acharya Maharaj and the whole Dharmkul, 4th Varshik Patotsav of Shree Saptah Parayan of Leela of Shree Dandhavya Swaminarayan temple, Jamiyatpura Desh was organized from 08/12/2013 to With the directions and blessings of H.H. 12/12/2013 on the occasion of 11th Patotsav of Shri Acharya Maharaj and with the inspiration of Shree Swaminarayan temple, Dangarva. S a d g u r u u S h a s t r i S w a m i Shastri Swami Purushottamprakashdasji Purushottamprkashdasji (Jetalpurdham) and (Jetalpur) was the spokes person of this S a d g u r u S h a s t r i S w a m i Parayan, whose benefit was availed by all the Chhapaiyaprasaddasji, 4th Patotsav of Shree devotees and Haribhaktas. On this occasion, Swaminarayan temple, Jamiyatpura was Pothi-yatra, Jal-yatra, Mahavishnu Yaag, Leela celebrated with great fervour and enthusiasm. of milk and curd in Madh of Jatanba were Devotee Shri Sureshbhai Bhalabhai Mukhi organized. H.H. Shri Mota Maharaj graced the family had rendered the services as the host of concluding ritual of Parayan and blessed the this Patotsav. host devotees and Haribhaktas. The Sabha In the morning on 10/12/2013, H.H. Shri was conducted by Mahant Shastri Swami Acharya Maharaj graced the occasion with the Chandraprakashdasji of Siddhpur temple. saints and all the devotees and Haribhaktas of (Patel Baldevbhai Visabhai) the village performed grand Samaiyu. Shree Swaminarayan temple, Kaliyana Thereafter, H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj With the directions of H.H. Shri Acharya performed Shodasopchar Abhishek of Thakorji Maharaj, Prabhat-Feri, Dhoon, Thaal etc. were and graced the house of the host devotee. performed by Shree Narnarayandev Dhoon Thereafter. H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj Mandal early in the morning from 5.15 hours to performed Annakut aarti and graced the Sabha JANUARY-2014 • 23 organized on the occasion. In the sabha, Shri Mota Maharaj performed Abhishek of devotees and Haribhaktas performed poojan- Shree Harikrishna Maharaj. After Nauka Vihar, archan and obtained the blessings of H.H. Shri beautiful Satsang Sabha was organized Acharya Maharaj. After the inspirational wherein Shastri Swami Atmaprakashdasji had speeches by the Nand saints, H.H. Shri performed preachings. About more than 600 Acharya Maharaj blessed the whole Sabha. devotees and Haribhaktas had availed the The whole arrangement was made by Parshad benefit of this divine occasion. (J.D.Thakkar) Hardik Bhagat and the Sabha was conduced by Shree Narnarayandev Yuvak Mandal Shibir Shastri Swami Chhapaiyaprasaddasji. at Motera (Parshad Hardik Bhagat) With the blessings of Bhagwan Shree Free Medical Camp in Shree Swaminarayan and with the directions of H.H. Swaminarayan temple, Approach Shri Acharya Maharaj, one day Shibir of Shree (Bapunagar) Narnarayandev Yuvak Mandal was organized With the directions and blessings of H.H. by Kalupur temple on 29/12/2013 at Shree Shri Acharya Maharaj and the whole Dharmkul Narnarayandev Party Plot, Motera. About more and with the inspiration of Mahant Sadguru than 1600 young devotees from 70 villages had Swami Laxmanjivandasji, free medical services participated in this Shibir. This Shibir was are provided to the needy patients from organized with a noble aim of development of 06/12/2013 in our Shree Swaminarayan Satsang and performing special Bhajan-Bhakti. temple, Approach (Bapunagar). In the beginning of the Shibir, all young Dr.Bharat D. Suhagiya who is the Director devotees had availed the benefit of Kirtan- of Matru Medical Surgical and Maternity Home, Bhakti. Thereafter, H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj has been rendering services free of cost for one and the saints graced the occasion and Shibir and half hour in the morning from 8.00 to 9.30 began with Mangala Aarti of Thakorji. The hours everyday to all the patients suffering from representatives of Yuvak Mandal of Motera had various diseases such as diabetes, blood performed Swagat-poojan and obtained the pressure, jaundice, fever, cold, Tuberculosis blessings of H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj. and other chronic illness related to stomach, Thereafter, Shastri Swami Nirgundasji talked abdomen and head. Free medicines for about the importance of Shree Narnarayandev. ordinary problems and free guidance for Thereafter, H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj made chronic diseases is also provided. announcement about Shree Narnarayandev With a view that the patients may also get Mahotsav and directed the young devotees to the facility of medical treatment, one room has do something special for the noble occasion. been allotted from the temple premises for this The devotee Prof. Hitendrabhai provided noble purpose. This free medical services has beautiful guidance to the devotees and Shastri been started from 06/12/2013 by lighting the Swami Harijivandasji (Himatnagar), Shastri lamp by Mahant Swami of the temple in the Swami Harikrishnadasji (Approach), Shastri morning at 8.00 hours. The needy patients can Swami Chaitanyaswaroopdasji (Koteshwar) avail the benefit of these services. had delivered beautiful lectures on various (Gordhanbhai V. Sitapara) subjects. In the second session, devotee Shri Satsang Sabha at Sanand Nal Sarovar Nileshbhai explained the topic ‘Happy Life on With the directions and blessings of H.H. the basis of Vachanamrit and Shiksha Patri’ Shri Acharya 1008 Shri Koshalendraprasadji with the help of beautiful Multimedia Show in a Maharaj and in the pious presence of H.H. Shri new style. Thereafter, in the concluding Mota Maharaj and with the guidance of session, Mahant Swami Sadguru Shastri Sadguru Shastri Swami Atmaprakashdasji, Swami Harikrishnadasji of Ahmedabad temple Haribhaktas of Shree Swaminarayan temple, and Sadguru P.P. Swami (Naranghat) Sanand had organized From Sanand to Nal delivered beautiful and inspirational speeches. Sarovar Satsang Shibir (Naika Vihar) on The Sabha was conducted by Shastri 16/12/2013. saints from Jetalpur, Kankaria, Ramikrishnadasji (Koteshwar). Ahmedabad and Makansar had also arrived on While returning to their villages, the this occasion. In the middle of Nal Sarovar H.H enthusiastic had demanded to organize such JANUARY-2014 • 24 Shibir in every area, which was warmly (Shailendrasinh Zala) welcomed and it was blessed that, such Shibir Purnahuti of Akhand Mantra-Jaap in would be organized in each area. Halvad (Atul Patel, Naranghat) With the directions and blessings of H.H. Celebration of grand Shakotsav in Diyodar Shri Acharya 1008 Shri Koshalendraprasadji (Banaskantha) Maharaj, Akhand Mantra Jaap were going on With the directions and blessings of H.H. for the last one year from 15/12/2012 till Shri Acharya 1008 Shri Koshalendraprasadji 09/12/2013. accordingly concluding ritual of Maharaj and with the inspiration and guidance Akhand Shree Swaminarayan Mahamantra of Sadguru Mahant Shastri Swami Jaap was organized on 09/12/2013. H.H. Shri Harikrishnadasji of Kalupur temple, grand Acharya Maharaj graced this occasion and Shakotsav was organized on 15/12/2013 in blessed all the devotees and the devotee Shri Diyodar. Devotee Shri Dilipbhai Lavjibai Mukeshbhai and Nileshbhai of Harikrishna Thakkar, Shri Shaileshbhai and Shri Navinbhai Farm where this Akhand Dhoon was organized. rendered their services as the host of this Swami Jisnucharandasji (Muli) who was the Shakotsav. source of inspiration for this Akhand Dhoon, Mahant Sadguru Shastri Swami was honoured by offering him shawl on this Harikrishnadasji, Shastri Vishwaprakashdasji divine occasion. Saints and Haribhakta from (vadnagar), Sadguru Shastri P.P. Swami various villages had also arrived on this (Naranghat), Shastri Ram Swami, Swami occasion. (Anilbhai B. Dudhrejiya) Dharmpravartakdasji, Shastri Vrajbhushan Re-invocation of idol images in Shree Swami, Madhav Swami and Nilkanth Swami Swaminarayan temple, Jodiya had also arrived on this occasion. H.H. Shri During the earthquake of the year 2001, Acharya Maharaj had performed divine Vaghar. our temple at Jodiya was destroyed. Hence The Sabha was conducted by Shastri Swami H.H Shri Acharya Maharaj directed Shastri Narayanmunidasji. (Shastri Muni Swami) Swami Chhapaiyaprasaddasji of Muli temple MULI DESH for renovation of this temple. On completion of Patotsav of Shree Swaminarayan temple, the work, grant Mahotsav with Patotsav was Surendranagar organized from 16/11/2013 to 18/11/2013. On With the directions and blessings of H.H this occasion Tridinatmak Katha of Shrimad Shri Acharya 1008 Shri Koshalendraprasadji Bhagwat Dasm Skanda, Samhita Parayan, Maharaj and with the inspiraiton of Sadguru Vishnu Yaag etc. were organized. Beautiful Mahant Swami Premjivandasji, 8th Patotav of Katha was also organized with Sadguru Shastri Thakorji was orgnized from 13/11/2013 to Swami Shreejiprakashdasji of Muli. On this 19/11/2013 with great fervour and enthusiasm. o c c a s i o n S a d g u r u S h a s t r i S w a m i On this occasion Shrimad Satsangijivan Atmaprakashdasji (Jetalpur), Shastri Swami Saptah Parayan was organized with Sadguru Ghanshyam Swami (Mansa), Sadguru Shastri Shastri Swami Shreejiprakashdasji (Muli) and Swami Jagatprakashdasji, Sadguru Swami Shastri Swami Vishwaviharidasji as the Shyamcharandasji (Jetalpur), Shastri Swami spokespersons of this Parayan. On this Shyamcharandasji (Jetalpur), Shastri occasion, Shree Hari Yaag, Annakut, Ghanshyamprakashdaji, Kothari Swami Mahabhishek, Vivah of Shree Rampratapji and Krishnavallabhdasji, Kothari J.K. Swami, Ram other cultural programmes were also Swami J.P. Swami (Muli) had also arrived on organized. The devotee Shri Rasiklal this occasion. On 17/11/2013 H.H. Shri Pragjibhai Chandarana rendered the services Acharya Maharaj graced this occasion and as the host of this Patotsav. H.H. Shri Mota saints and Haribhaktas had performed grand Maharaj had graced this occasion and blessed Samaiyu. Thereafter, H.H. Shri Acharya the whole Sabha organized on the occasion. Maharaj performed Shodasopchar Abhishek of Sankhya Yogi ladies devotees from various Thakorji and then performed pooja-archan and places had also arrived on this occasion. aarti of Pran-pratistha Mahotsav. Therafter, Services of Shree Narnarayandev Yuvak H.H Shri Acharya Maharaj performed Mandal was very inspirational. concluding ritual of Katha and graced the JANUARY-2014 • 25 Sabha organized on the occasion. The grand importance of Tulsi Vivah. The host devotees temple has been got ready with the beautiful were also honoured on this occasion. On services of the devotees of region. After completion of the pious Chatur Maas, the inspirational speeches of the saints, H.H. Narnarayan Swami had offered beautiful Shri Acharya Maharaj blessed the whole vegetables to Thakorji. (Pravin Shah) Sabha. Shastri Swami Chhapaiyaprasaddasji Shakotsav in Jetalpurdhan (Allan town- had delivered the vote of thanks. The host America) devotees, donor devotees, Chhapaiya Swami On 24th November 2013, H.H. Shri Acharya and Dev Swami were also honoured on this 1008 Shri Koshalendraprasadji Maharaj and divine occasion. The Sabha was conducted by Shastri P.P. Swami of Jetalpurdham had Shastri Ghanshyamcharandasji. Many known arrived in our Shree Narnarayandev Shree and unknown devotees had rendered their Swaminarayan temple Jetalpurdham (Allan beautiful services on this divine occasion and Town). H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj performed thereby they had obtained the divine pleasure the grand Shakotsav on this occasion. Mahant of Shree Hari. (Sadhu Chhapaiyaprasaddas) Swami of each Chapter and many devotees OVERSEAS SATSANG NEWS and Haribhaktas had arrived on this occasion. Shree Swaminarayan temple, Colonia After the inspirational speeches of the saints, With the directions and blessings of H.H H.H. Shri Acharya Maharaj had blessed all the Shri Acharya 1008 Shri Koshalendraprasadji devotees and Haribhaktas. At last, Shri P.P. Maharaj and H.H. Shri Mota Maharaj, grand Swami informed that a grand temple is Tulsi Vivah was celebrated in the evening on proposed to be constructed in Allan Town and Saturday-Sunday in our Shree Narnarayandev requested all the devotees to render their Swaminarayan temple, Colonia. Amongst beautiful services for the noble purpose. At last Kirtan-Dhoon, ladies devotees had performed Thaal-Aarti were performed to Thakorji and all Garba and had celebrated the marriage of the devotees availed the benefit of divine Tulsimata. Mahant Swami had explained the Shakotsav. (Pravin Shah)

AKSHARVAAS Ahmedabad – Devotee Shri Hansaben Rameshchandra Raval (mother of our devotee Shri Ashishbhai Raval (native Jamnagar), rendering services of translation and editing work of our ‘Shree Swaminarayan’ magazine) passed away to Akshardham on 17/12/2013 while chanting the name of Shree Hari. May Bhagwan Shree Swaminarayan grant courage and patience to the family members of late devotee. Lasundra – Devotee Shri Shantibhai Kushalbhai Patel (father of the devotee Shri Mukeshbhai) passed away to Akshardham on 21/11/2013 while chanting the name of Shree Hari. Ahmedabad- Devotee Shri Kunvarben Parshottambhai Desai (Pithvajal) passed away to Divine Abode of God on 16/11/2013 while chanting the name of Shreeji Maharaj. Govindpura Veda – Mother of the Devotee Shri Pinkeshbhai passed away to Akshardham on 27/11/2013 while chanting the name of Shri Hari. Kotha - Devotee Shri Santokba Kandas Patel passed away to Akshardham on 06/11/2013 while chanting the name of Shri Hari. Kaliyana- Devotee Shri Vashrambhai Ravabhai Mori (age 78 years) passed away to Akshardham on 30/11/2013 while chanting the name of Shri Hari. Dangarva (Dabhi) - Devotee Shri Sitaben Ishwarlal Ramdas Patel (retired Kothari) (age 74 years) passed away to Akshardham on 26/11/2013 while chanting the name of Shri Hari.

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. DECEMBER-2013 • 26