The city of Baroda, now called Vadodara was the capital of one of the most powerful princely states of India prior to independence. Even today, the city has a unique position on the educational, cultural and industrial map of India.

Vadodara is situated on the banks of the river Vishwamitri (whose name is derived from the great saint Rishi Vishwamitra). The city was once called Chandravati, after its ruler Raja Chandan, then Viravati, the abode of the brave, and then Vadpatra because of the abundance of banyan trees on the banks of the Vishwamitri. From Vadpatra it derived its present name Baroda or Vadodara.

In the same way that the city of Vadodara is famous for its education, it is also reputed for its cultural richness and spiritual dedication of its inhabitants. The supreme Swaminarayan tenets in this region were spread primarily by Sadguru Shree Gopalanand Swamibapa. Shree Gopal Bapa lived in the city for extended periods of time and due to his teachings, many of Vadodara’s inhabitants became virtuous satsangis. Many eminent officials of Vadodara, including King Sayajiraav III witnessed the divinity of Shree Gopal Bapa and surrendered unto his spiritual shelter. King Sayajiraav donated funds to build temples in the region to encourage the people of Vadodara to give up their illicit addictions.

Shree Gopal Bapa’s work for the spiritual and social enlightenment of Vadodara’s people was continued by Gurudev Adya Acharya Pravar Jeevanpran Swamibapa. And in 1977, Jeevanpran Swamibapa created a magnificent Temple on one of the main artery roads into Varodara.

By the divine inspiration and blessings of His Divine Holiness Acharya Swamishree, the Rajat Pratishtha Mahotsav, Silver Jubilee Festival will be held at the beginning of February. This Mahotsav will form another facet to the on-going ten year long celebrations of Shree Muktajeevan Swamibapa Shatabdi.

During this time when the world is at the brink of having to endure a major war, His Divine Holiness Acharya Swamishree will hold special prayers for world peace and compassion. Recently, this region has also endured communal violence and disturbances. To inspire stability and understanding in the people of this region, His Divine Holiness Acharya Swamishree will be holding a series of events during the 5 days of the Mahotsav. Prayers will be held to Lord Swaminarayanbapa Swamibapa to bestow peace upon those souls who needlessly lost their lives during that period of unrest.