Ashad sud poonam is the auspicious Gurupoonam, one of the 3 main annual festivals of the Swaminarayan sampradaya. On this day, devotees gather and pay homage to Gurudev Swaminarayanbapa Swamibapa.

Jeevanpran Swamibapa explains the precise meaning of the Sanskrit word guru.

He who enlightens the ignorant, i.e. shines light to those in darkness, is called a Guru. It is only Lord Swaminarayanbapa Swamibapa that can enlighten us ignorant souls to the supreme bliss of eternal happiness, the endless peace of the supreme Lord.

This auspicious occasion was celebrated at Shree Swaminarayan Temple Los Angeles on July 19th 2014. Disciples gathered recited Kirtans and read Acharya Swamishree’s Ashirwad for the occasion. Gururaj Jeevanpran Shree Muktajeevan Swamibapa was then carried on a decorated palanquin by devotees. Disciples were chanting Kirtan while carrying Muktajeevan Swamibapa inside the LA Mandir. This celebration also coincide with 2nd anniversary of LA Mandir. Exactly 2 years ago Acharya Swamishree inaugurated this Mandir for all the West Coast devotees. A delicious cake was offered to celebrate the anniversary. The event concluded with disciple enjoying mahaprasad.