For disciples of the Swaminarayan Sansthan, Vikram Samvat 1882, Maha Sud 5 (11th February 1826) of the Hindu calendar was the day chosen by the Lord to gift humanity with the Shikshapatri scripture. 
Vasant Panchmi holds a special significance, as it is on this day that Lord Shree Swaminarayan Himself wrote 212 verses of spiritual benevolence for all beings. 

The Shikshapatri is the epistle of beneficial instructions that describes the rudiments that one should adopt in order to lead an honest and moral life. Adhering to the commandments is the key to attaining ultimate salvation (Atyantik Moksh) at the shelter of Shree Swaminarayan Gadi.

Shikshapatri Jayanti is recognised with grand festivity in the Swaminarayan Sampraday and likewise disciples gathered at Shree Swaminarayan Mandir Bolton to honour the 197th anniversary. 

During the evening of Thursday 26th January 2023, a communal recital of the Shikshapatri scripture was held. Disciples were encouraged to bring their own Shikshapatri’s from home or download an online copy to follow the collective vanchan. 

The occasion also coincided with India’s Republic Day, when India commemorates the enactment of the constitution of India. In honour of this anniversary, the young students of Gujarati Class performed the Indian national anthem “Jana Gana Mana” in salute alongside the congregation. The transliteration with its English translation was displayed to allow all devotees to participate in marking the significant day.    

The celebrations continued with Kirtan Bhakti and Prasad thereafter for all.