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Sunny morning of Sunday, August 26, 2007 was a red letter day in the history of Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Sanstha, (BAPS) , as His Divine Highness, Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the Apostle of Peace and the world leader of the BAPS, performed the long awaited inauguration ceremony of the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir, the largest traditional stone and marble mandir in the US and the fourth traditional BAPS mandir in North America; through a Vedic ceremony known as murti pratishtha, in which divinity is infused into the sacred images. Once this ceremony takes place, the building is not just a mere stone structure, but a place where people can come to worship. The mandir is also a center for many social and cultural activities.

The resplendent jewel of architectural grandeur in its pristine purity was decorated with fresh flowers, colored balloons and sparkling row of kalashes. Thousands of devotees and visitors from the US and other parts of the world stood with respectful attention in the forecourt adjoining the reflection pool, decorated with a huge colorful rangoli, to listen to the chanting of the holy Vedic mantras inside the mandir. The occasion was graced by the presence of the Chief Guest of Honor, Congressman Henry Johnson, Jr.; Honorable Mayor of Lilburn, Jack Bolton and the Commissioner of Gwinett County, Mr. Charles Bannister. Thunderous ovation greeted Swamishri and the sants who emerged from inside the mandir, and in whose presence the three guests were garlanded. Appreciating the mandir for its outstanding social activities and declaring the day as BAPS Mandir Lilburn, Georgia Day, Congressman Henry Johnson, Jr., unveiled a plaque officially opening BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Atlanta. The Indian tricolor and American flags waved proudly in the cool breeze, and all stood up for the US anthem followed by the Indian national anthem Jana Gana Mana, sung with great enthusiasm by the smartly dressed BAPS youth and Birkmar High School choir. Crowds cheered as balloons were released in the air. The remaining program continued in the Assembly Hall, which was packed to capacity. Inside the Hall the audience was treated to a rich entertaining cultural program including short skits and folk dances and recital of holy mantras. Congressman Henry Johnson, Jr. read out the Proclamation amidst resounding ovation. Sant Vivek Sagar Swami spoke about how the Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi is proving a magnet for devotees and visitors from all over the world. And Swami Ishwar Charan Maharaj spoke about the soon to be released Manas Charit Granth audio-CD. The audience listened to Swamishri’s brief but inspiring talk with rapt attention. Swamishri spoke about the significance and role of mandirs. He advised everyone to shun their egos and attachment and lead a God-conscious, character-centered life. He further advised all to abstain from vices like drinks, and drugs. He emphasized the importance of family harmony, community service and respect for all faiths. “This mandir is open to all. Whoever sincerely offers his prayers will attain happiness and peace”, he said. He congratulated and thanked all the volunteers and conferred his blessings on all. (Resounding applause). All were served mahaprasad following the program. Eager devotees patiently stood in line to get inside the mandir to admire and offer their prayers to the newly consecrated murtis.

Other highlights of the five-day festival included BAPS Centenary where 100 years of BAPS Centenary where 100 years of BAPS were celebrated. The event took place on Friday 24th August, including thought provoking dramas, and lively dances reflecting the growth of BAPS over the years to serve communities, families and individuals. BAPS was revealed by Bhagwan Swaminarayan and was established in 1907 by the third spiritual successor, Shastriji Maharaj. The Attorney General Thurbert Baker proclaimed Pramukh Swami Maharaj as Honorary Attorney General for the State of Georgia. BAPS values living in harmony with others. On Saturday, August 25, people of all ages participated in a prayer for world peace called the Vishwashanti Mahayagna. This symbolic ceremony was performed for the peace, prosperity and happiness for all.

Atlanta’s BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, by the Numbers:

· Situated on 29 Acre Complex.

· 5 Shikhar (Pinnacle)
· 86 Decorative ceilings
· 116 archways (Toran)
· 340 Pillars
· 34,000 Carved pieces
· 17 months to complete stone work
· 8 Tonnes, heaviest stone
· 37 grams, lightest stone
· 4,500 tonnes of Turkish limestone
· 4,140 tonnes of Italian Carrara marble
· 3,065 tonnes Indian sandstone
· 1,500 craftsmen involved at 26 different sites in India
· 900 volunteers gave their services
· 1.3 million Man hours of construction
· Built to last 1,000 years.
 

The Mandir will be open to the public on September 1, 2007. This magnificent complex will bring spiritual well being, knowledge of the heritage of Ind0-Americans and any colorful festivals and events.
About BAPS

The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), established in India, in 1907, is a worldwide civic and religious organization dedicated to the spirituality of the individual while promoting harmony between individuals, within families, and within diverse communities. Since 1970, BAPS has been serving in the areas of: Family Unity, Spirituality, Indian Heritage, Children and Youth Development, and Humanitarian Services.

 

About the Inspirer and Creator: Pramukh Swami Maharaj

Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the fifth spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan and the present leader of BAPS... His compassion for humanity and caring nature have touched and inspired countless people. His inspiring call, “In the good of others lies our own…”reflects the spirit of his life and work. Representing the essence of Hinduism, his spiritualism, universal wisdom and striking simplicity have touched many world religious and national leaders.
Courtesy: BAPS Media Relations.