"Swami Narayana Jayanti"- Celebrating The Life And Teachings Of Lord Swaminarayan

Swami Narayana Jayanti, also known as Lord Swami Narayana's birthday, falls on Navami Tithi of Shukla Paksha during Chaitra month. It coincides with Rama Navami. Hence this year, it is on '17th April ‘24.' As per scriptures, Shree Swami Narayana Ji was born on Chaitra navami in Vikram Samvat 1837 (i.e., 3 April 1781 AD).

Born into a Vaishnava farmer family in Chhapaiya (a small village near Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, India, he was given the name 'Ghanshyam' by his parents. On turning 7, he had mastered various literatures like Ramayana, Vedas & Bhagavatam. At the age of 11, he left his home to embark on a spiritual journey. He walked around 7000 miles barefooted. On gaining so much knowledge & wisdom, he became a spiritual head by the age of 20 and started teaching the world about the path of spirituality.

In his early 20s, he settled in Gujarat & established the Swami Narayana Sampradaya.

He also initiated an association known as BAPS (Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swami Narayana Sanstha). It is a Hindu denomination that follows the teachings of Swami Narayana. This organisation is involved in operating several temples, including Akshardham temples in India as well which are known for their grandeur, intricate carvings and beautiful gardens. The BAPS organisation believes in the principles of Vedic astrology, knowledge of vastu & incorporates them into the design and construction of their temples.

Lord Swaminarayan also worked tirelessly to promote social reforms and uplift the marginalized sections of society. He strongly opposed caste discrimination and promoted education for all, irrespective of their social status or background.

He is revered among his disciples as he has made the promise that he would be alive and preaching always, regardless of time and years. Thus, he is worshiped as Lord Swami Narayana.

Every year, the devotees of the Swami Narayan Sampradaya (a Hindu sect founded by Shri Swami Narayana himself) celebrate this occasion with utmost fervor and dedication. The people keep nirjala fast the whole day to receive the divine blessings of Lord Swami Narayana. They gather under a roof to play his devotional songs for 24 hours. His devotees keep an idol of Swami Ji in the temples of their homes & offer prayers to him. Then, they chant the mantras related to him to follow his lessons with complete dedication.

He was born at 10:10 PM, and to mark this holy occasion, a special Aarti is performed at all the Swami Narayana temples at this same time.

During his stay on earth, he enlightened millions of souls and his immortal teachings are an inspiration to today's youth. He spread the message of Sanatana Dharma to the world. He also used to make his devotees take the pledge of doing social service. Lord Swaminarayan's teachings emphasized the importance of leading a pious and virtuous life, and he laid great stress on the virtues of humility, devotion, and compassion.

Unfortunately, he left his body & merged with the Supreme soul on Jeth 10, Vikram Samvat, 1886 (1 June 1830 AD). But his divine teachings & soulful blessings still prevail over us today. Hence this occasion is a great opportunity for us to come together and celebrate the life and teachings of Lord Swaminarayan, and to renew their commitment to leading a virtuous and meaningful life.

On this day, let's practice the principles of Ekanti Dharma as preached by the Lord himself. On the occasion of Swaminarayan Jayanti, let’s take an oath to avoid evil words, behaviors and character and do as much social welfare as possible for us in our lifetime.

Happy Swami Narayana Jayanti!