Shree Swaminarayan Temple New Jersey allows disciples to partake in the following cultural activities:

• Religious Drama Productions
• Satsang Shibirs
• Devotional Indian Dance
• Devotional Singing
• Baal Sabha

Religious Drama Productions

Religious drama productions are held each summer. These drama, incorporated with comedy and entertainment, teach lessons based on the teachings of the Lord and His philosophy. About thirty devotees participate in the making of the religious drama as directors, actors, artists, or state crew. Disciples show a great deal of interest in performing drama, as it pleases the Lord and His Divine Holiness Acharya Swamishree.

Disciples performing a religious drama

Satsang Shibir

Satsang Shibirs provide disciples the chance to show their devotion to the Lord and learn His teachings all the while enjoying themselves. The first ever Satsang Shibir was held at Shree Swaminarayan Temple, New Jersey in 2003. Two shibirs are held annually at the temple, one outdoor in the summer and one indoor in the winter. There is a wide range of activities, which are both religious and sportive. Activities include pooja demonstrations, tap-mudra, tug-of-war, kabadi, volleyball, cricket, 50-100 meter races, three-legged races, quiz competitions, etc.

Acharya Swamishree teaches young disciples how to do pooja in the first ever Satsang Shibir

Devotional Indian Dance

The temple offers disciples the opportunity to learn various forms of Indian dance to please the Lord. These include, Bharat Natyam, Indian Dandia Dance, Folk Dance, and Bollywood style dance. Approximately 50 boys and girls ranging from ages 5 to 25 participate. Disciples prepare numerous dances, and they perform them every August during the temple’s anniversary.

Disciples performing a devotional dance to please Lord Swaminarayanbapa Swamibapa and Acharya Swamishree

Devotional Singing

Disciples perform kirtan-bhakti (devotional singing) at various occasions throughout the year. These occasions include Bhakti-Sangeet Night during Patotsav and religious raas during Patotsav and Diwali celebrations. The singers are accompanied by disciples playing on musical instruments.

Disciples performing kirtan-bhakti during a religious raas

Baal Sabha