Wednesday, April 2, 2025

Munnar – The Green Tea Paradise

We drove our own vehicle (Baleno) to begin our road adventure.

reviewed the fundamentals

Fuel ♽ ✅

Stepney 🛞✅

Snacks 😋✅

Quick Tag Recharge ✅

Real Money 💰✅

Playlist on Spotify 🎶✅

etc.

We always like to travel at night since it's quiet, but for people who aren't used to it, it can be exhausting! I would advise making thoughtful phone calls.

Munnar to BLR is almost 580 kilometers away.

At 11 p.m., Vaish and I departed, picking up my friend Shikhar from HSR.

Route specifics

BLR-Salem-Tirupur road, in order for us to arrive at the Chinnar wildlife checkpoint precisely between 5:30 and 6 am

As scheduled, we arrived at Annamalai Tiger Reserve at precisely six in the morning. As soon as we entered the forest checkpoint, our tires began to spin slowly in the thick jungle.

We were fortunate enough to witness a number of wild species, including peacocks and wild boars.

After 20 minutes of drive we arrived at Chinnar wildlife check post (Kerala border also). Roads on the Kerala side are far better than Tamil Nadu side.

The curvy roads offer you a drive through Marayoor sandalwood forest and rubber plantations, one of the prettiest roads in South India. It is a great experience

Kannan Daavan Hills – Munnar

By that time, we had begun climbing the Kannan Daavan Hills – a tea estate-filled hill owned and operated by Tata.

We finally made it to our destination

Monsoon Grande Hotel, a hotel with a personal tea estate. We had booked a suite room.

Friday, June 14, 2019

Nageshwar Jyotirlinga

There once lived a rakshasa called Daruka, who was extremely cruel and tortured the good ones. But yet he was a great devotee of Lord Siva. A Siva devotee, Supriya who was a merchant reached the Darukavanam, where Daruka lived with his wife Daruki, while sailing with his goods. Daruka asked Supriya to teach him the path of devotion to Siva, the norms of performing pooja and penance. Fearing that Daruka would use any additional powers gained by such penance, to bad use, Supriya refused to guide him. The enraged Daruka began to torture Supriya. Supriya however was staunch is his faith in the Lord and was unmoved by any torture. Lord Siva was pleased and appeared and killed the demon Daruka. Daruki, Darukas wife, now started giving even more trouble than her husband. Siva vanquished her too and gives darshan to his devotees at this place as Nageshwar.

Nageshwar Temple or Nagnath Temple is located on the route between Gomati Dwarka and the Bait Dwarka Island on the coast of Saurashtra in Gujarat. The Jyotirlinga enshrined in the Temple of Nagnath is known as Nageshwar Mahadev and attracts thousands of pilgrims all round the year. This powerful Jyotirlinga symbolizes protection from all poisons. It is said that those who pray to the Nageshwar Linga become free of poison. The Rudra Samhita sloka refers to Nageshwar with the phrase 'Daarukaavane Naagesham'.

This Jyotirlinga manifestation of Shiva is worshipped as Nageswara. Two other sites in India, one near Audhgram near Purna in Andhra Pradesh and another near Almora in Uttar Pradesh also enshrine temples to Nageswara Jyotirlingam. According to the Shiv Purana, any one who ever with devotion reads the birth and greatness of this Jyotirlinga shall beget all material happiness and divine status in the end

Thursday, June 13, 2019

Garvo Gadh Girnar

Keeping up the delicate balance between the fine golden-brown sand of Gujarat’s richest desert on one hand, and the lush green of the Gir Forest on the other - Girnar - a group of mountains in the Junagadh district of Gujarat are a haven for thrill seekers and religious devotees alike due to their ability to be both - a hub for religious activity and also a retreat for trekkers, because of the hills that lead up to splendid views.

An important pilgrimage site, Girnar hills are flocked daily by many devotees. While the summit of the Datar Peak is held sacred by both Hindus and Muslims, temples like the Neminath temple and the Meravasi temple are sacred to the Jain community. Another major highlight of this place is the Girnar Parikrama Festival and the Bhavnath Fair between the

Mythology related to Girnar

Girnar Mountains are older than the Himalayas and are believed to be sacred since ancient times. It is a very religious place for Shiv devotees and many Sadhu baba, Nath Sect and different Jain Tirthankaras reside in these mountains. It is believed that these mountains were also the residence of Dattatreya. This place is also believed to be the death place of Yavana warrior Kalayavana.
The legend goes that in the caves of Girnar Mountain one of the forefathers of Lord Rama was sleeping. He was a great king of Tretayug, Muchukunda. He had helped Devtas to win an epic war against Asuras. After winning it he got a boon that anyone who disturbed or broke his sleep would turn be burned down to ashes. So, he went and slept in the caves or Girnar Mountains. In Dwaparyug Lord Krishna knew about this. He lured Kalayavana into this cave and Lord Krishna hid. Kalayavana unknowingly disturbed Muchukunda and was burned down to ashes. Also, it is said that Pavhari Baba, who has influenced the life of Swami Vivekananda, had initiated the practice of yoga on this mountain.

Trekking in Girnar

The most affordable and efficient way to get to the foot of the Girnar hill is to take a tuk-tuk or an 8-passenger seating vehicle that starts carrying passengers and travellers, right from early in the morning or to take the auto-rickshaws that run across the lengths and breadths of the town, but can be a little expensive. One will have to climb approximately 10,000 steps in order to reach the peak of the hill from its foot. Services like palki and rope chair are available for those who find it difficult to walk as many steps and are priced according to one’s weight. An official board has the price and weight ratio listed down, to avoid confusion and over-charging. During the initial few thousand steps, stalls are located on either side of the steps to provide basic amenities like water and food. After every 2500 steps or so, resting places (i.e Dharamshalas) have been constructed for the travellers to take rest in. The first few temples are Jain temples, the oldest one pays homage to the 22nd Jain Tirthankar - Neminath, followed by a temple of Amba Mata - which is popular amongst newly married couples. The final few thousand steps, lead to the last temple in the complex and a very few pilgrims are actually able to reach here. The area is surrounded by the presence and turnover of many sadhu babas of different sects like the Nath sect and the view from the peak is absolutely breathtaking!

Restaurants and Local Food in Girnar

While the area is brimming with natural beauty and spiritual and religious significance, it tends to be on the limited side in case of food options. There aren't any lavish or elaborate eating places. However local food joints provide decent food. Typically vegetarian, Gujarati Thali would consist of Roti or Rotlas, Dal or Kadhi, Rice and Vegetable Curries . Also sip into a refreshing glass of Lassi, Buttermilk or Chaas , while on you spiritual journey.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Girnar Pilgrimage: The steps for the pilgrimage begin at Domdar Kund which are near Domodar and Baldvji temples. You should gradually ascent the steps as the journey is long and you should not tire yourself. Many temples will cross your path amongst which Bhavnath is an important one to Lord Shiv’s devotees. Here Naked Sadhu comes to celebrate Shivratri. As you ascend you shall come across various other temples and small kunds. After climbing around 4000 steps you shall reach a plateau. There is a Jain temple complex over there. The view and the beauty of temples is truly satisfying for the soul. Again after further climbing 2000 steps, you shall reach Amba Maa Temple. It is visited by Hindus and Jains. Then an up and down trail will take you to the last point where there is the temple of Kalika. Aghora ascetics stay here and smear themselves with ashes. months of January and February every year - when Hindu and Jain devotees, gather here in huge numbers.

Many small wonders of historical significance can be found here, for instance: Ashoka’s Major Rock Edicts and the Junagarh rock inscription of Rudradaman, from many centuries ago. Being the highest point of Gujarat - Mt. Girnar stands at 1,031 metres (or 3,383 ft) and is symbolic of the rich history and heritage of the land. It is also of major importance and so is its base which is called the Girnar Taleti, which is just 4 kms east of the centre of Junagadh.

What is the best time to visit Girnar?

Famous for its temple and altitude, Girnar is the tallest peak in Gujarat with an elevation of 3600 ft above sea level. The sheer height of the place and the fact that it is located in Gujarat makes Winters (September - March) the best season to visit the temples in Girnar. These curious temples have been a point of fascination for many who visit here as well as a frequent spot for pilgrims who are looking to attain some salvation among the high mountains.

Weather in Girnar

Now
25°C

Upcoming Girnar Weather

Saturday
24-26°C

Sunday
24-28°C

Monday
25-26°C

Monthly Weather in Girnar

Month	Avg. Minimum (°C)	Avg. Maximum (°C)
January	15	28
February	18	32
March	21	35
April	25	37
May	27	39
June	28	37
July	27	31
August	26	30
September	25	32
October	24	33
November	19	33
December	17	31

Girnar in Winter (October - March)

The Winter months from October to February makes it an ideal season to visit Girnar. It's the perfect weather for tourists and locals to trek up to the temples and witness their beauty up close. The pleasant temperature which lies somewhere between 20 degree Celsius to 28 degree Celsius is what makes the winter season a perfect time to trek up the numerous steps of temples as the cool weather offers some salvation from the strain of the trek.

Girnar in Monsoon (June to September)

The months of June to September make up the monsoon season for Girnar. These months are accompanied with an average amount of rainfall and an occasional thunderstorm that hits the town. Many tourists avoid the monsoon season for travelling to Girnar as the rain makes the route extremely risky. This is because there is a high risk of landslides that are a common occurrence in this area during the monsoon season.

Girnar in Summer (March - June)

Summers in Girnar can be very hot and humid. The temperature could go as high as 34 degree celcius making it a terrible companion while you climb peaks to visit the temples. Due to this reason, summers are typically avoided by tourists which makes the months from March to June an off-season. However, if you plan to visit Girnar in Summer, keep yourself hydrated.

Wednesday, June 12, 2019

Somnath Mahadev First Jotirling

Shree Somnath is first among the twelve Aadi Jyotirlings of India. It has a strategic location on the western coast of India.

Ancient Indian traditions maintain a close relationship of Somnath with release of Chandra (Moon God)from the curse of his father-in-law Daksha Prajapati. Moon was married to Twenty-Seven daughters of Daksha. However, he favoured Rohini and neglected other queens. The aggrieved Daksha cursed Moon and the Moon lost power of light. With the advice of Prajapita Brahma, Moon arrived at the Prabhas Teerth and worshipped Bhagvan Shiva. Pleased with the great penance and devotion of Moon, Bhagvan Shiva blessed him and relieved him from the curse of darkness. Pauranic traditions maintain that Moon had built a golden temple, followed by a silver temple by Ravana, Bhagvan Shree Krishna is believed to have built Somnath temple with Sandalwood.

The research based on ancient Indian classical texts show that first Somnath Jyotirling Pran-Pratistha was done on the auspicious third day of brighter half of Shravan month during the tenth Treta yug of Vaivswat Manvantar. Swami Shri Gajananand Saraswatiji, Chairman of Shrimad Aadhya Jagadguru Shankaracharya Vedic Shodh Sansthan, Varanasi suggested that the said first temple was built 7,99,25,105 years ago as derived from the traditions of Prabhas Khand of Skand Puran. Thus, this temple is a perennial source of inspiration for millions of Hindus since time immemorial.

The Moon God is said to have been relieved from the curse of his father-in-law Daksha Prajapati by the blessings of Bhagvan Somnath. In the Shiva Purana and Nandi Upapurana, Shiva said, `I am always present everywhere but specially in 12 forms and places as the Jyotirlingas`. Somnath is one of these 12 holy places. This is the first among the twelve holy Shiva Jyotirlings.

The later sources of history account for several desecrations by Muslims invaders during eleventh to eighteen century A.D. The temple was rebuilt every time with the reconstructive spirit of the people. The modern temple was reconstructed with the resolve of Sardar Patel who visited the ruins of Somnath temple on November 13 1947. Then President of India, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, did the Pran-Pratistha at the existing temple on 11 May 1951.

Other spots in the temple are Shri Kapardi Vinayak and Shri Hanuman Temple in addition to Vallabhghat. Vallabhghat is a beautiful sunset point. The temple is illuminated every evening. Similarly, the Sound & Light Show “Jay Somnath” is also displayed every night during 8.00 to 9.00, which allows the pilgrims an ethereal experience in the backdrop of grand Somnath temple and the holy wave sounds of the Ocean.

Ahalyabai temple is also close by, which was built by the queen mother Shri Ahalyabai Holker during 1782. This temple maintained the Pooja Parampara of Bhagvan Shiva during the hostile political conditions.

Somnath, literally meaning 'lord of the moon' is a pilgrim center and is home to one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. It is a town which derives much of its identity from the mythology, religion, and legends that surround it.

Primarily a temple town, Somnath is a place where a strong scent of religion and legends lingers around tourism and even daily life. Its spiritual environment is ornamented by the huge number of temples in the area, however, Somnath also offers beaches, museums and other attractions. While the Somnath temple and Somnath beach are the primary places to visit here, Gita Mandir, Balukha Tirtha, Kamnath Mahadev Temple, Somnath Museum are some of the other places that one can visit.

More information about Somnath

All the temples in Somnath, especially the main Somnath temple and the Panch Pandava Gufa temple, have some historical and mythological stories associated with them. Like the Somnath temple has faced destruction by the foreign invaders like the Turks, the Portuguese and the Mughals or that the Panchapandava Cave temple is believed to be having the powers of Shiva which were invoked by the Pandavas after days of prayers when they were in exile. The local people can tell you many such fascinating stories. So, do take time to engage with them and get as many stories out of them as possible

Restaurants and Local Food in Somnath

Somnath does not have many restaurants or lavish fine dining experiences to offer. There are a few popular eating places around the temple, as well as some local joints and Dhabas. Dairy products likeLassi, Buttermilk, Chaas, ice creams are popular and easily available.
You can also try Gujarati snacks in the area like Dhokla, Khakra, Fafda, Sev, Khandvi and Khaman as well as sweets like Ghevar, Malpua, Shrikhand, Puran Poli and more. Gujarat is a dry state, so you wouldn't find any alcohol here.

View 2 Restaurants in Somnath >

Itinerary

Reach Somnath by noon time, have lunch and take some rest. You can set out from your hotel around 4:00 PM and start visiting all the nearby temples starting with the Panch Pandava Gufa temple and ending it with the Somnath temple. After visiting the temple you can relax on the beach and watch the sunset.

What is the best time to visit Somnath?

September to March are the best months to visit Somnath, as the winters are quite cold. However, if you wish to avoid the crowd and tourists that flock to Somnath, you may be tempted to visit the place during the summer and monsoon season. Somnath is extremely hot and humid during these seasons and should most definitely be visited during the winter months when the heat is more bearable.

Weather in Somnath

Now
28°C

Upcoming Somnath Weather

Friday
28-30°C

Saturday
27-30°C

Sunday
27-30°C

Monthly Weather in Somnath

Month	Avg. Minimum (°C)	Avg. Maximum (°C)
January	15	29
February	18	32
March	21	34
April	25	36
May	27	37
June	29	36
July	27	31
August	26	29
September	26	32
October	23	33
November	19	33
December	18	32

Somnath in Winter (November - February)

Winters in Somnath are the ideal time to witness the town in all its magnificent beauty. The winter season in Somnath lasts from October to February and is the ideal as well as peak season to visit the pilgrimage spot. This is because during the winter months Somnath is a cold and pleasant with temperatures ranging from 10 degree Celsius to 24 degree Celsius. These temperatures are a great relief from the hot summers and the humid monsoons, making it the perfect time to sightsee and witness all that Somnath has to offer. The winter months, especially the month of February, is also the peak time to visit Somnath due to the festival of Maha Shivratri. This festival celebrates explicitly the triumphs of Lord Shiva who is one of the central gods in Somnath. Due to this reason, thousands of Hindu Devotees flock to Somnath during this festive month which is filled with prayers and celebrations occurring on every street and corner.

Somnath in Monsoon (July - September)

If summers in Somnath are sweltering and hot, monsoons are another matter entirely. The monsoon months of July to September in Somnath receive a heavy dose of rainfall. While this is a normal phenomenon for many places across the country, Somnath is a special exception because the monsoons in the place are almost vicious. The town is often faced with harsh winds that may even turn into cyclones during some particularly bad days. Humidity also runs high during the monsoon season which means that individuals visiting Somnath during this time are in for a particularly uncomfortable visit.

Gita Mandir on Triveni Ghat near Somnath Temple

Somnath in Summer (March - June)

Summers in Somnath last from March to June. The summers, as well as the monsoons in Somnath, are less than ideal and aside from the throngs of pilgrims who visit in droves throughout the year, the place is virtually empty. The temperatures during these months run high and range from 24 degree Celsius to 42 degree Celsius. These temperatures are synonymous to those of the summers in other parts of Gujarat and are indeed extremely hot. So unbearable are these months that they hinder sightseeing activities and make individuals not want to leave the comfort of their accommodations.

Somnath Temple, Gujarat

Tuesday, June 11, 2019

Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple Delhi

Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple, Delhi Overview

An epitome of Indian culture, spirituality, and architecture, Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple is an abode of God built in 2005. Sitting deftly near the banks of River Yamuna, the temple showcases Hinduism and its age old culture. Dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan, the temple is undoubtedly a work of miracle. Akshardham has made its way to the Guinness Book of World Records as the World's Largest Comprehensive Hindu Temple.

Over 8000 volunteers from all around the world were involved in the construction of intricately carved marble and sandstone structure of the temple. Timeless Hindu teachings and flamboyant devotional traditions find their place on the temple's incredible walls. Moreover, the complex is a home to India's largest step well which is a host to the mesmerising water show; an open garden, Narayan Sarovar, various expeditions, and rituals. The complex is not less than a paradise for the spiritual seekers.

The temple takes its visitors on a journey of spiritual enlightenment. It has eight ostentatiously carved mandapams. Each prayer here takes you closer to God and signifies the improvement of oneself. The centrepiece, i.e. Lord Swaminarayan's Murti along with that of 20,000 deities, significant personalities in Indian history and sages showcase the essence of Indian architecture, traditions and timeless spiritual thoughts. If visiting Delhi, then it gets mandatory for you to visit this beautiful place which glorifies Indianess in every aspect.

Akshardham Mandir

The temple opened on 6th November 2005 is constructed by BAPS (Full Form: Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha). The main attraction of the complex, i.e. the Akshardham Mandir stands as high as 141 foot, stretches as wide as 316 foot and extends as long as 356 foot. The walls and roofs carved with the images of different deities, musicians, dances, flora, and fauna are a work of great architecture. Every detailing here speaks highly of Indian cultural aspects.

Architectural techniques

A blend of several ancient styles of Indian architecture has been used to build the Swaminarayan Akshardham Mandir. The principles of Maharishi Vastu Architecture are followed carefully in its construction. The builders of this beautiful temple have abided by the norms Shilpa Shastras and hence have made no use of steel and concrete to maximise the lifespan of this great architectural piece. Akshardham is entirely a temple built of Rajasthani pink sandstone and Italian Carrara marble.
It has nine domes with 20,000 murtis of different deities, acharyas, and sadhus.

Garbhagruh

Under the temple's central dome is the 11-foot high statue of Swaminarayan seated in Abhayamudra. Surrounding him are the figures of the divine succession of Gurus. As manifestations of Aksharbrahma, the gurus are God's eternal servants, symbolising devotion and saintliness. Garbhagruh behind itself offers the items sanctified by Lord Swaminarayan during his premises on Earth for direct darshan. The temple also has the murtis of Mythological duos, Sita Ram, Radha Krishna, Shiv Parvati, and Lakshmi Narayan.

Mandovar

The mandir is the largest temple to be built in last eight hundred years. The Mandovar is 25 feet high and 611 mt long. It has two hundred and thirty ostentatiously carved pillars.The top of the Mandovar has samarans that teach people to live a spiritual life away from the mundane pleasures. Vibhuti, the middle of the Mandovar has sculptures of the sages, avatars, devas, acharyas and devotees. Jagati, the base of Mandovar has living beings as its speciality. Elephant here signifies strength with lion and vyal symbolising bravery and speed respectively.

Gajendra Peeth

It is a tribute to the elephants for their importance in Indian history and Hindu culture. The Gajendra Pith contains 148 life sized elephants weighing 3000 tons in real. These elephants share the message of peace, beauty and gentleness.

Narayan Peeth

The 60 feet long bronze relief panels serve the purpose of doing Parikrama around the central figure of God. The panels have illustrations from the life of Swaminarayan.

What does Akshardham offer?

1) EXHIBITIONS Artistically alluring, spiritually enlightening, culturally poignant, and scientifically amazing, these presentations form a harmonious combination of art, spirituality, culture, and science. They bring into the picture a perfect fusion of ancient values and modern techniques to provide a soul stirring experience of Universal values and Hindu heritage. Three different halls hold the three exhibits respectively. Be a spectator of a thousand years old eye surgery method, Vedic marketplace, ancient yoga, the invention of chess, the life of Swaminarayan and much more!

SAHAJANAND DARSHAN-The Hall of Values

As the name suggests, The Hall of Values, visitors leave the room taking with them the in-depth knowledge of values like perseverance, non-violence, family harmony, prayers, and morality. The timeless messages of Hindu culture are presented using different techniques of audio-animatronic figures, immersive projections, and 3-D dioramas. Furthermore, the hall features the world's smallest animatronic robot in the form of Ghanshyam Maharaj, the child form of Swaminarayan

NEELKANTH DARSHAN-Giant Screen Film

Follow the foot steps of youthful Bhagwan Swaminarayan on his journey to the great Indian subcontinent in the epic film screened in a unique giant theatre. Grab the chance of exploring the gorges of Himalayas, witnessing the Rameshwaram mandir and trekking through the forests of Assam while being at this particular place.

Bhagwan Swaminarayan journey Hindi

Bhagwan Swaminarayan journey English

SANSKRUTI DARSHAN-Cultural Boat Ride

Board a boat and ride through the thousand years of bygone Indian age. This journey unfurls the old pages of Indian culture and development. It features contributions of Vedic Indians like Aryabhata, Brahmagupta, Kalidasa, Chanakya and much more. Next, it shows Takshashila, the world's first university incorporating lessons of horse riding and warfare. From Vedic times it moves slowly to the Middle ages showcasing the renowned figures such as Kabir, Meera, Ramananda.Finally, it ends with the contributors of the recent times, namely, Swami Vivekananda, Jagadish Chandra Bose, C. V. Raman, Srinivasa Ramanujan, and Satyendra Nath Bose.

2) MUSICAL FOUNTAIN or THE WATER SHOWReflecting the story from one of the treasures of Knowledge of the Vedic era, Kena Upanishad, Sahaj Anand Water Show is an experience of amaze balls. Undergo the experience of eternal truth where the innocence of children manages to challenge the supreme powers of the almighty as you witness the show taking place in Yagnapurush Kund. The Kund is India's largest step well comprising of 2,870 steps and 108 small shrines. Following this in the centre is a 27 feet high statue of Neelkanth Varnishowcasing the values of determination, courage, and devotion. The nine lotus design of the pool is a replica of a ritual yantra used in Hindu ceremonies.
Running Time- 24 minutes
Timing- Currently, it starts at 7.30 pm

3) NARAYAN SAROVARIndian culture has always glorified and respected the water bodies which is the reason by many rivers like Ganga, Yamuna, Kaveri, etc. are given religious importance. Following this sacred tradition, Narayan Sarovar has been built surrounding the central Akshardham Mandir. The Sarovar comprises of the waters of 151 holy rivers and lakes.

4) GARDEN OF INDIA or THE BHARAT UPAVANWith greenery resides, the sculptures of prominent personalities of Indian culture and history. These include the statues of freedom fighters, children, women, and other national figures.

Best Time To Visit Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple

Visit the temple around 3 pm so that you get free with the exhibitions as soon as possible and can easily be a part of the spectacular mountain show.

Tips For Visiting Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple

Cover your body from shoulders to below the knees
Reach as early as possible, more the delay longer the queues at the ticket office
Carry minimum stuff as nothing except wallets, baby food, and other essential items is allowed inside. Items like food, umbrella, camera, mobile phones, etc. are not allowed.

How to Reach Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple

Akshardham temple can be easily reached via Blue Line metro. Take the metro that heads towards Noida and step down at Akshardham metro station. You can either take a rickshaw or can walk to reach the Swaminarayan Akshardham Complex.

Earth Hour 2019, Delhi, India

30 Mar 2019

anand

Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi participated in the 2019 Earth Hour on March 30. This global movement, which began in 2007, asks landmark buildings throughout the world to turn off non-essential lights for one hour in an act of solidarity and as a call to action to better the environment and prioritize the preservation of nature.

United States Ambassador to India Kenneth Juster Visits Swaminarayan Akshardham, Delhi, India

23 Jan 2019

anand

United States Ambassador to India, Kenneth Juster, visited Swaminarayan Akshardham. Ambassador Juster was accorded a traditional welcomed by Sadhu Gnanmunidas on behalf of Param Pujya Mahant Swami Maharaj.

During his visit, Ambassador Juster offered respects at the Swaminarayan Akshardham Mandir, performed abhishek on the murti of Shri Neelkanth Varni and also viewed the Sanskruti Vihar exhibition.

Before departing, Ambassador Juster commented in the visitor’s book, “Thank you for a wonderful tour of the fabulous Akshardham Temple. This is a marvelous complex and provides a good overview of India's history and culture.”

Romanian Foreign Minister Teodor Melescanu Visits Swaminarayan Akshardham, Delhi, India

25 Nov 2018

anand

Romanian Foreign Minister Teodor Melescanu visited Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi, as part of his official visit to India commemorating 70 years of diplomatic relations between India and Romania.

The five-member delegation was traditionally welcomed by senior sadhus of BAPS on behalf of Param Pujya Mahant Swami Maharaj.

Foreign Minister Melescanu offered his respects at the Swaminarayan Akshardham Mandir and performed abhishek on the sacred murti of Shri Neelkanth Varni. The delegation also experienced the Sanskruti Vihar boat ride that depicts India’s heritage and contributions to society.

Before departing, Foreign Minister Melescanu commented, “After visiting this temple, I am more confident in the prospective of peace in our families, our countries and the world.”

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner & Delegation Visit Swaminarayan Akshardham, Delhi, India

13 Nov 2018

anand

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner Visits Akshardham

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, along with a 13-member delegation, visited Swaminarayan Akshardham, marking the mayor’s first stop in a one-week trip to India.

The delegation, which included Houston Council Member Jerry Davis, representatives from the Johnson Space Center and Houston’s Indo-American Chamber of Commerce, and government and business officials from the city of Houston, was greeted in a traditional manner by senior sadhus of BAPS on behalf of Param Pujya Mahant Swami Maharaj.

Mayor Turner offered his respects at the Swaminarayan Akshardham Mandir and performed abhishek on the sacred image of Shri Neelkanth Varni. The delegation experienced the Sanskruti Vihar boat ride exhibition that depicts India’s heritage and contributions to society. Finally, they witnessed the Sahaj Anand Water Show.

“This visit [to Akshardham] has been a tremendous gift and blessing to me and my delegation,” said Mayor Turner. “As I return, I am renewed in my belief that we can be a positive difference in this world.”

South Korean President Moon Jae-in Starts Trip to India with Visit to Swaminarayan Akshardham, Delhi, India

8 Jul 2018

His Excellency Moon Jae-in, President of the Republic of Korea, started his first-ever state trip to India with a visit to Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi.

President Moon and South Korean First Lady, Mrs. Kim Jung-sook, were able to experience the ageless beauty, borderless culture and timeless values of India at Akshardham.

On behalf of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, the Spiritual Head of Swaminarayan Akshardham and the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, senior sadhus and trustees traditionally welcomed President Moon and delegation.

President Moon and First Lady Jung-sook offered their respects at the Swaminarayan Akshardham Mandir and admired the Mandir’s art and architecture.

President Moon then viewed the Gajendra Pithika (Elephant Plinth) that includes 148 lifelike carved stone elephants depicting messages of social harmony, peace and spirituality.

While traveling past Akshardham on the Delhi Metro the following day, President Moon fondly reminisced with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi about his first visit in India at Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi.

President Moon and First Lady Kim shared sentiments for world peace and harmony by offering ‘abhishek,’ the ceremonial pouring of sanctified water from 151 holy rivers, lakes and ponds across India on the sacred image of Shri Neelkanth Varni.

“I pray for the peace in Korea, India and the world in Akshardham," President Moon wrote.

"I am very delighted to visit this grand temple as part of the first leg of my visit," said President Moon. "After, seeing this, the feeling that I get is that India and Korea may be having different cultures, but the two countries share commonalities in values such as peace, harmony and unity in diversity.”

Diwali and Annakut Celebrations 2018, Delhi, India

8 Nov 2018

Diwali and Annakut Celebrations 2018, Delhi