On Thursday 26 January 2023, Acharya Swamiji Maharaj initiated a parshad into the Sant fraternity. This was the first diksha ceremony (initiation) performed by Gnan Mahodadhi Acharya Swamiji Maharaj. As per tradition, the ceremony was performed before Lord Shree Swaminarayan – Shree Ghanshyam Maharaj presiding at Maninagar Mandir.

The parshad had been in training to become a Sant for over a year. Having received the required training, and accepting the way of life that a Sant must live, the senior Sants recommended that he was worthy to receive initiation.

At the start of the ceremony, his former family members performed poojan to the Parshad for the last time, after which he was required to take a ritual bath. The Mahapooja ceremony was then performed in the Mandir with Acharya Swamiji Maharaj. The Parshad's white robes were removed and he adorned saffron coloured clothing. Acharya Swamiji then whispered the ‘Guru Mantra’ in his ear, and give the new name - Sant Shiromani Shree Anandsagardasji Swami - Guru Shree Muktajeevandasji Swamibapa. After performing aarti to the supreme Lord Shree Swaminarayanbapa Swamibapa, Acharya Swamiji Maharaj, the newly initiated Sant, and the senior Sants performed pradakshina around the Mandir to demonstrate his utmost of respect and reverence to his new home, Shree Swaminarayan Mandir Maninagar.