Deity : Lord Swaminarayan
Introduction
The BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, Junagadh, is one of the major temples dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan, one of the most significant entities in Hinduism. This temple forms part of the historic city of Junagadh, Gujarat, and is well known for its architectural grandeur as well as spiritual importance to be a center of devotion and community activities.
History
The BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir of Junagadh was founded under the tradition of the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan, commonly known as BAPS, which was established by Shastriji Maharaj in the early years of the 20th century. The Swaminarayan movement, founded in the late 18th century by Bhagwan Swaminarayan, enunciates spiritual development and moral living. The carvings and craftsmanship of the Junagadh Mandir speak to the growth of this tradition as a continuing testament. The temple has also played and continues to play a meaningful role in the lives of followers regarding the preservation and spread of the Swaminarayan teachings.
Festivals
Major Hindu festivals bring the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Junagadh alive. Diwali, being the Festival of Lights, decorates the temple in a very elaborate way with various decorations and lights, turning it into a festive atmosphere. Janmashtami, the birthday of Lord Krishna, falls in the month of August-September and is celebrated with devotional songs, dances, and special ceremonies. Almost all of these festivals are associated with communal gatherings, special prayers, and cultural events, which heighten the spiritual experience and further strengthen bonds of unity among the devotees. These celebrations bring out both the religious importance of the temple and the strengthening of community bonds through shared devotion and joy.
Map : Location Link
