Vibrant Celebrations of Pujya Gurudevshri’s 52nd Birthday

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For a devotee every event connected to the Master is an occasion to rejoice. The blessed day of 26th September holds the auspicious privilege of being the birthday of Pujya Gurudevshri. With great devotion and enthusiasm seekers across the globe came together at Yogi Sabhagruh, Mumbai, on this evening for a grand celebration to commemorate the momentous completion of 52 glorious years of their beloved Master.

Spirits soared and excitement rose high as the Master was serenaded by foot tapping song and dance dedications by the youth. The Trustees of the Mission venerated the Sadguru with a garland after which the Mission’s overseas centres trustees offered a shawl. A card was graciously presented to Pujya Gurudevshri by the blessed ones who share the Master’s Birthday.

An audio clip of Mahant Swami Maharaj, head of BAPS Swaminarayan sect giving his warmest wishes to Pujya Gurudevshri was played. Pujya Abhayswaroop Swami of BAPS Swaminarayan also felicitated the Master and expressed His deep respect. Shri Vijaybhai Rupani, Chief Minister, Gujarat sent his heartfelt regards to the Sadguru through a reverential letter. BJP MLA ( South Mumbai) Shri Mangal Prabhat Lodha along with several dignitaries also felicitated Pujya Gurudevshri on this blissful occasion.

A short act, ‘Shu Tame Thakta Nathi’ saluting the Master for His tireless efforts to ensure our spiritual growth was presented. It’s touching depiction moved the audience with a simple message – we are ignorant, drawn towards worldly attractions, but He compassionately never gives up on us. Befitting the magnanimous occasion was a wonderful offering, which brought a smile on Pujya Gurudevshri’s face and tears in His eyes – the invaluable gift of an original handwritten letter by Param Krupalu Dev Shrimad Rajchandraji. The entire venue reverberated with vigourous claps denoting the joy of the gathering.

In keeping with the Master’s message of universal love, Animal Care under the auspices of Shrimad Rajchandra Love and Care freed 501 cattle from slaughter houses and rehabilitated them. Symbolic of Pujya Gurudevshri’s 52nd birth anniversary a noble initiative to feed 52,000 needy people was also undertaken. The Sadguru’s enlightening pravachan elucidated that renunciation is the chosen path by the one who seeks nothing else but divine communion.

The most awaited moment of Atmarpit Diksha arrived with the announcement of the 3 young courageous souls who havße taken a prolific step in their journey to divinity. Raj Shah, Dhaval Shah and Nidhi Mehta were the three lofty beings chosen by Pujya Gurudevshri to be a part of His Atmarpit family. The ceremony took place where Pujya Gurudevshri initiates them as Atmarpits by blessing them with a Kada, Mala and their new attire henceforth symbolising their new life. On behalf of the new Atmarpits, Atmarpit Rajbhai addressed the gathering. His innocent love and dedication for the Sadguru captivated the audience.

An audio CD – ‘Hey Prabhu – Param Sathey Prarthnamay Palo’ comprising 11 heartfelt prayers to foster connection with the Lord was released. In a tradition started since Pujya Gurudevshri’s 50th Birthday each year a few Atmarpits are chosen by the Master for higher sadhana and seva responsibilities. The fortunate ones this year were Atmarpit Nishitbhai and Atmarpit Aartiben who were blessed with the adage ‘Ji’ to their respective names. The magnificent celebrations came to an end with a resonating arti.