New Delhi: Diwali, the festival of lights, was celebrated with immense joy and reverence at Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi. The celebrations featured traditional rituals, deep devotion, and vibrant decorations, bringing together senior Sadhus, devotees, and volunteers in the presence of Pujya Swayamprakashdas Swamiji (Pujya Doctor Swami).
The festivities commenced on October 28, 2024, marking the occasion of Govatsa Dwadashi. As part of the celebrations, a special Hanuman Puja was conducted on Kali Chaudas, which fell on October 30, 2024. A large gathering of devotees performed ceremonial puja to Lord Hanuman, invoking blessings to dispel negativity and darkness from their lives.
On October 31, 2024, Diwali rituals culminated in the traditional ‘Diwali Bahipujan’—the ceremonial worship of account books. This ritual embodies a renewal of prosperity and a dedication to spiritual growth. For the Bahipujan, the temple was adorned with colorful flowers and festoons, arranged by dedicated volunteers who had worked tirelessly for weeks. The temple glowed with countless lamps, filling the atmosphere with a divine aura and a sense of peace.
Pujya Doctor Swamiji offered blessings, saying, “May this Diwali bring peace, prosperity, and happiness into your lives. May each of us experience joy in body, mind, and spirit. As the festival of light, Diwali reminds us to kindle the light of knowledge within and dispel the darkness of ignorance—our prayer at the feet of God and Guru H.H. Mahant Swami Maharaj.” Dr. Swamiji also paid tribute to Sardar Patel on his birth anniversary and led prayers for world peace.
Throughout these sacred days, devotees immersed themselves in the teachings of Bhagavan Swaminarayan, grounding their faith in divine knowledge and spiritual resolve. The Sadhus encouraged all to carry forward the wisdom and devotion instilled during Diwali, reinforcing that faith in God lights the soul’s journey, casting away darkness and guiding toward enlightenment.
The celebrations at Swaminarayan Akshardham stood as a profound reminder of unity, devotion, and the enduring light Diwali represents.
