2017 Janmashtami celebrations took place at Shree Swaminarayan Mandir Kingsbury on Tuesday 15th August – the day also marked the 70th anniversary since India gained independence from British rule.

Janmashtami is significant in the Swaminarayan Faith as it marks the manifestation day of Sadguru Shree Ramamand Swami – the Lord’s own Guru. The day’s importance is even greater for us here at Shree Swaminarayan Gadi, as it also marks the day in 1920 when Jeevanpran Abji Bapashree established the Satsang Mahasabha to protect the Faith and its assets.

Celebrations at the Mandir began with the Pragatya Aarti, followed shortly by katha. Events concluded with the entire sabha standing to salute the Indian flag while everyone enthusiastically sung Jana Gana Mana – the National Anthem of India.