Lord Swaminarayan, born on the Navami Tithi of Shukla Paksha during the Chaitra month, is worshipped all across the world.
As his birth anniversary coincides with Ram Navami, people celebrate the birth anniversary of Lord Swaminarayan on same day by rejoicing and praying the whole day.
The devotees make offerings to Lord Swaminarayan by reciting his spiritual scriptures. They worship him by performing prayers that are dedicated to his good karma.
In 2022, Swaminarayan Jayanti is celebrated on Sunday, Apr 10, 2022.
Swaminarayan Jayanti History
Lord Swaminarayan was born near Ayodhya in the town of Chapaiya, Kaushal Desh and was known as Ghanshyam in his childhood days.
His mother was Bhakti Mata, who gave him the name of Ghanashyam, but his father used to call him Dharma Dev.
Sage Markanday conferred upon him many other names after getting impressed by his pious qualities. Therefore, he was known by the names of Nilkantha and Hari Krishan. His followers used to call him by the name of ‘Shreeji Maharaja. Later, he became well-known as Shree Swaminarayan.
The Journey Of Young Ghanshyam
Ghanashyam mastered over literature like Ramayan, Vedas, Bhagwatam and many other traditional scriptures at the age of seven. He won a theological debate at the age of 10 and at 11, he renounced all of his worldly desires and embarked on a journey across India. He walked barefoot and covered around 7000 miles.
He mastered the Yoga form of Ashtanga at 14 years and by the age of 20, he gained so much knowledge and wisdom that he became the spiritual head. At 49 years, he decided to be in Akshardham.
Even today he is revered among his disciples as he made the promise that he would be alive and preaching on the earth always, regardless of time and years. Thus, he is worshipped as Lord Swaminarayan.
Rituals Performed On Swaminarayan Jayanti
Devotees celebrate Swaminarayan Jayanti with immense fervour and joy. They play devotional songs for 24 hours without taking a break after gathering under a roof.
They recall the spiritual teachings of Lord Swaminarayan and read them in front of other devotees. Devotees organise Puja to get the divine blessings of Lord Swaminarayan.