With joyous tears, the volunteers watch the culmination of the pinnacle point of the mahamandir
Our Bureau
Robbinsville, NJ
For hundreds of followers and volunteers, a momentous occasion in the building of BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in Robbinsville, New Jersey was performed recently. The Kalash, or the topmost part of the mandir’s pinnacle, was sanctified during the sacred Kalash Pujan. With joyous tears, the volunteers watched as their years of hard work and anticipation culminated in the pinnacle point of the mahamandir by Shri Mahant Swami Maharaj. Senior swamis joined the auspicious ceremony to sanctify 18 kalashes for the spires of Akshardham.
The kalash is the peak of the Shikhar, or spire, which signifies blessings and the pursuit of spiritual immortality. Each Kalash stands as a symbol of the amrut-filled Kalash. Acting as a divine antenna, the Kalash captures the surrounding divinity, enriching the sacred atmosphere of the mandir.
On the occasion, Shri Ishwarcharandas Swami said, “The Kalash is considered significant because upon its placement, the shikhar becomes complete. When it adorns the shikhar, its inherent beauty flourishes, and it fills us with profound joy. As it takes its rightful place on the mahamandir, it symbolizes the divine culmination of all efforts at Akshardham.” He emphasized the unwavering dedication of devotees from North America, who served with deep devotion and faith.
Fondly blessing the assembly of volunteers, Shri Mahant Swami Maharaj said, “Today is the day of protection (Rakshabandhan). Bhagwan Swaminarayan himself has given us protection. Maharaj has done everything and given great protection. Now that you have sought liberation, there is no greater form of protection. There is no doubt you have sacrificed and done service physically, mentally, and financially.”
The Kalash Pujan ceremony was held during the Festival of Inspirations, a three-month-long celebration of the timeless values that BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham will inspire for generations to come. Akshardham will stand as a testament to the preservation of ancient Hindu traditions, and a bridge between these age-old Indian values in a modern world.
