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New Delhi, Oct 22 (IANS) Continuing the eternal festival traditions of India, the festival of Annakoot and Govardhan Puja was celebrated with joy and enthusiasm at the Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple on Wednesday. Thousands of devotees and visitors gathered at the temple premises with deep devotion and faith to be a part of this divine occasion.
A huge crowd of devotees gathered in the temple since morning. Thousands of people came for the Annakoot darshan, where 1,232 sattvik vegetarian dishes were artistically arranged and offered to the deities. In preparation for this grand offering, hundreds of dedicated volunteers worked tirelessly day and night, exemplifying selfless devotion, love and service.
Inspired by Mahant Swami Maharaj, the festivals of Diwali and Annakoot are celebrated with the same devotion and harmony as other major Hindu festivals in more than 1,800 BAPS Swaminarayan temples and centers across the world.
The festivities began at Akshardham Temple at 10:00 am with Govardhan Mahapuja, which was attended by senior masters of the organization and thousands of devotees. A special replica of Govardhan Parvat was built in the temple courtyard, where the Swamis performed the traditional Vedic maha puja and divine aarti of the deities. Chanting of Vedic hymns and devotional music filled the atmosphere with spirituality and divine bliss.
Blessing everyone on this auspicious occasion, Mahant Swami Maharaj said, “May everyone be happy in body, mind and wealth. In this New Year, let everyone adopt the qualities of others and stay away from criticism and blame.”
Celebrated on the first day (Shukla Pratipada) of the Shukla Paksha after Diwali, this festival provides an opportunity for devotees to express their gratitude towards God. In many states of India, this day is also considered the beginning of the new year.
According to ancient texts, about 5,000 years ago during the Dwapara Yuga, when there were torrential rains due to the wrath of Lord Indra, Lord Krishna lifted the mighty Govardhan Mountain on his little finger to protect the people of Gokul. After seven days, when the storm ended, Shri Krishna instructed everyone to worship Govardhan and celebrate the Annakoot festival – a tradition that continues to this day.
Annakoot darshan remained open for the public till late evening. This festival beautifully reflects the spirit of “Thy Offering to Thee”, which symbolizes the belief that whatever we have is by the grace of God, and true happiness lies in offering back to Him.
–IANS
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