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.
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