Unforgettable Celebrations of Pujya Gurudevshri’s 51st Birth Anniversary

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The hallowed day on which an Enlightened Being takes birth is one of immense significance as it marks the beginning of the inner journey of multitudes. Pujya Gurudevshri’s gracious advent on this earth 51 years ago on the pious day of 26th September 1966 was a day of infinite joy for all seekers, who yearned for a saviour to free them from the cycle of birth and death. Each year this auspicious day is celebrated with great enthusiasm by aspirants of all ages who express their devotion through myriad means.

Devotees from world over assembled at Yogi Sabhagruh in Mumbai on the crisp evening of Tuesday, 26th September 2017. The spiritual fiesta commenced with a surprise from the mystic Master Himself as He entered from amidst the excited devotees sitting in the ground level. Seekers accorded their benevolent Sadguru a spectacular welcome with pulsating spirits and throbbing hearts. Accompanied by the energetic dancing of Yuvarpit and Jivanarpit devotees Pujya Gurudevshri ascended the stage. The Mission’s bhakti team performed soulful sonnets commemorating the Sadguru’s revered birth.

Seekers’ eyes overflowed in devotion as 51 reasons for Pujya Gurudevshri’s advent on this earth were elucidated. 5 gifts were offered to the Master signifying the surrender of 5 senses at the lotus Feet of the Sadguru. These were offered by the blessed sevaks who are honoured to offer personal seva to Pujya Gurudevshri. Trustees of the Swaminarayan Mandir venerated Pujya Gurudevshri with a shawl, garland and a memento. A touching skit ‘Karunani Parampara’ exalting the Master’s boundless compassion for His devotees touched inner core of every devout present.

Pujya Gurudevshri’s insightful discourse on Patrank 380 from the sacred text Vachanamrutji was undoubtedly the highlight of the evening. The Master inspired seekers to rise above their transitory worldly attachments and invest their love wisely in the eternal pure Lord. Pujya Gurudevshri stated that a person becomes the image of the one he truly loves. So by yoking to the Divine one can attain divinity. Thus He motivated the gathering with His powerful nectar-like words to walk the spiritual path with great zeal and passion.

To mark the momentous event ‘Sadhakni Yuddhniti’ – a guide for a seeker to procure strength to win over his inner enemies was launched in various media formats. The announcement that Shrimad Rajchandra Love and Care (SRLC) was awarded the Spirit of Humanity Award, Western Region in recognition of it’s social initiatives was acknowledged with great enthusiasm. Humanitarian Care, under the auspices of SRLC celebrated the occasion by undertaking to feed 51,000 needy people through the Hunger Relief Programme. Animal Care, also pledged to rescue 501 cattle and rehabilitate them in appropriate animal shelters.

After a devotional arti at the end, seekers dispersed with renewed resolve to walk the path shown by their beloved Sadguru, with greater sincerity and dedication.