(MOREPIC1) Raj Sadosh/New Delhi/Abohar.
The 78th Independence Day was celebrated in Swaminarayan Akshardham Mandir, New Delhi with an overwhelming patriotic fervour. Devotees from different states of North India in large numbers participated in the Independence Day celebrations in the presence of Mahant Swami Maharaj, the current spiritual guru and president of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha. The entire premises of Swaminarayan Akshardham Mandir resonated with the spirit of patriotism, as chants of 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai' filled the air.
The program began with prayers and remembrance of the divine. Then, the children and youth wing of BAPS uplifted the atmosphere with cultural performances and patriotic songs. Volunteers from the security department and police officers on duty in the complex also took part in a special Independence Day parade. Mahant Swami Maharaj hoisted the Indian National Flag and paid tribute to the freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for the independence of the nation. This was followed by the singing of the national anthem and a salute to the flag. At the age of 92, after performing the national anthem, Mahant Swami Maharaj saluted the tricolor, imparting a sense of civic duty to the entire nation.
Viveksagar Swami paid tribute to the freedom fighters and said, “India was a glorious nation. Today, it is our duty to preserve the country's glorious heritage. Bringing virtue into our lives is true independence.”
Mahant Swami Maharaj said, “On this day, let us pray for India's overall progress. May all the problems of the nation be resolved soon. May all the citizens of the country live happily. For the freedom of the country, Guru Yogiji Maharaj would chant 25 rounds of mala daily. Instead of asking what the country will do for me, if we cultivate the spirit of what I can do for the country, India will surely progress.”
After the blessings, all the sadhus and devotees collectively prayed for the peace and prosperity of India
