Day 4 of Shree Swaminarayan Mandir Bolton Suvarna Mahotsav saw the conclusion of parayans (scripture recitals) held on behalf of disciples to please Lord Swaminarayanbapa Swamibapa. The scriptures for which we have done parayans, bring us true happiness and allow us to attain oneness with the Lord. The Lord showers His blessings upon all of the disciples who have selflessly done seva with tann, mann, and dhan for samuh parayans and grand parayans, which are, no matter what size, all “grand” in the Lord’s eyes.
Following this, Acharya Shree Jitendriyapriyadasji Swamiji Maharaj blessed the congregation with his Divine Ashirwad.
In celebration of our 50th Anniversary, a magnificent Nagaryatra (procession) was held through the streets of Bolton on Saturday 20th August 2022, starting from Hulton Lane Playing fields at 3pm. The parade was formed of a spectacular chariot and young marching cadets, both male and female, led by our Pipe Band consisting of players from around the UK with Shree Muktajeevan Swamibapa Pipe Band Bolton and London playing in harmony. Along the route, huge masses of spectators gathered as the parade entertained the crowds to create a vibrant atmosphere aided by the Pipe Band fusing the cultures of the West and the East in a cacophony of sounds. The procession also consisted of members of our female congregation carrying the Gadi Granth in honour of celebrating the accumulated 90 readings which they achieved by attending weekly Shree Swaminarayan Gadi Granth recitals over the last 2 months.
Lord Swaminarayanbapa Swamibapa and Acharya Swamiji Maharaj, gave darshan to disciples and observers on the route, while seated upon an ornately decorated chariot, designed and made by our very own disciples.
After nearly three hours of festivities, the parade reached Mandir, where the participants spilled into the carpark to welcome Acharya Swamiji Maharaj as He was regaled by the Pipe Bands and chanting disciples. The sound elevated with the excitement of the community.
Everyone received Mahaprasad before and after the Nagaryatra and the penultimate day of our Golden Jubillee celebrations were concluded with great happiness and pride generated from this marvellous spectacle!