Diwali at BAPS

The auspicious occasions of Diwali, Annakut and New Year were celebrated with great fanfare at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Rosehill, Sydney, on 17, 18 and 19 October respectively. The celebrations took place in the presence of BAPS Sadhus, Pujya Jnanpurush Swami and Pujya Adarshmuni Swami.

On Diwali evening, many devotees took part in Chopda Pujan. Chopda Pujan is a ritual where those involved in trade and business do Pujan (sanctification) of their new financial ledgers to augur success in the forthcoming year. The assembly started with singing of the Prarthana (prayers). This was followed by the Chopda Pujan ceremony. The sabha concluded with Arti and Mahaprasad.

On Annakut day, over 1,000 vegetarian foods were traditionally arranged in tiers or steps in front of the Mandir deities resulting in a spectacular display. The singing of the Thaal (devotional songs asking the Lord to partake in the Annakut) then occurred. The Chief Guests for the Annakut assembly were Shri Amit Dasgupta, Consul General of India, and the Lord Mayor of Parramatta, Cllr Paul Garrard. In his speech to the gathering, the Consul General wished the Indian community a Happy Deepavali and commended the community for their efforts in trying to resolve the Indian students’ issue which had emanated earlier in the year. On his part the Lord Mayor wished all present a happy new year and commended the Indian community in general and BAPS in particular for their evening assembly, which included speeches and presentations as well as cultural programs. The Chief Guest for the evening was the Hon. David Borger MP, Minister for Housing and Minister for Western Sydney and Asst. Minister for Transport.

The Minister wished the congregation on this festive season and commended BAPS for its organizational skills and community engagement. After Aarti and Annakut viewing, devotees proceeded for

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir PRO, Mr Yogi Savania, said that this year’s Deepavali and Annakut celebrations held a nostalgic charm, as this was most likely the last Annakut at the Mandir building as it currently stands. Parramatta City Council recently granted consent to major refurbishment plans to the current Mandir building, with construction expected to begin very early in 2010.