On Saturday 5th September 2015, His Divine Holiness Acharya Swamishree Maharaj presided over the Janmashtami celebrations at Shree Swaminarayan Mandir, Kingsbury.

Janmashtami is significant in the Swaminarayan Faith as it marks the manifestation day of Sadguru Shree Ramamand Swami. To celebrate, Kingsbury Mandir was open all day so that everyone could experience the divine darshan of Lord Swaminarayanbapa Swamibapa.

Hundreds of visitors were welcomed throughout the day and had the opportunity to be a part of celebrations. Lord Shree Swaminarayan was seated on an ornate swing (hindolo) beautifully decorated with fresh fragrant flowers and devotees were given the chance to rock Him.

In the evening Acharya Swamishree Maharaj gave his divine ashirwad and explained to disciples,

"Use your time wisely, spend it performing devotional deeds to please the Lord.

"Don't waste the opportunity you have been given to please the Lord and achieve salvation."

After the pragatya aarti a special utsav was performed by Acharya Swamishree Maharaj, sants and disciples who chanted mantras and sang kirtans, as Lord Shree Swaminarayan was gently rocked in the swing.