
Importance of Swaminarayan Jayanti

Swaminarayan
Swaminarayan Jayanti is one of the most auspicious events of the year for the individuals belonging to the Swaminarayan group spread everywhere. On this day, an extraordinary occasion is established for the love of Lord Swaminarayan in various temples of Swaminarayan found from one end of the country to the other. The followers spread the teachings and lessons of Lord Swaminarayan by reciting the mantras.
When is Swaminarayan Jayanti celebrated?
According to the Hindu calendar, devotees celebrate Swaminarayan Jayanti on the Navami of Shukla Paksha in the Hindu month of Chaitra.
History
Lord Swaminarayan was known as Ghanshyam in his younger days. Lord Swaminarayan’s mother, Bhakti Mata, gave him the name of Ghanshyam, although his father called him Dharma Dev.
The beliefs say that the Presiding Lord appeared on the Earth to bestow his heavenly blessings on his devotees and destroy the misdeeds or adharma.
Lord Swaminarayan was born in Ayodhya in the city of Chhapaiya in the country of Kaushal. Sage Markandeya, examining his holy qualities, honoured him with many names. He was also famous for some other names like Neelkanth and Hari Krishna. His devotees called him ‘Shriji Maharaja’.
Famous lessons of Swaminarayan on Swaminarayan Jayanti
Devotees or enthusiasts joining the Swaminarayan sect follow specific guidelines. There are five principles that his followers need to follow:
– Don’t steal.
– Try not to eat meat.
– Try not to drink alcohol.
– Give up adultery.
– Follow your religion.
Every individual needs to act according to these guidelines made by Lord Swaminarayan. Along with this, on Swaminarayan Jayanti, his followers take a pledge to do social service.
Puja Vidhi for Swaminarayan Jayanti
- Wake up early in the morning, take a bath, and wear clean clothes.
- Wash the idol of Lord Swaminarayan and keep it at the place of worship.
- Before placing the idol of Lord Swaminarayan at the worship site, one should clean the place of prayer thoroughly.
- Light a lamp in front of Lord Swaminarayan and offer fruits as bhog.
- Chant the mantras related to Lord Swaminarayan and resolve to follow his lessons with complete dedication.
- Distribute prasad among his devotees after finishing the puja.
- People of the Swaminarayan sect also observe fast on this day.
Some Famous Temples of Swaminarayan
– Akshardham Temple, New Delhi
– Akshardham Temple, Ahmedabad
– Swaminarayan Mandir, Ahmedabad
Swaminarayan Jayanti is all about worshipping Lord Swaminarayan and seeking his blessings. On this day, practice the principles of Ekanti Dharma as taught by Lord Swaminarayan. On this auspicious day, take a pledge to stay away from bad words, manners of behaviour and character and do social service as much as possible during your life.