CHINO HILLS, CA: This year, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Chino Hills celebrated the 232nd birth anniversary of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, also known as Swaminarayan Jayanti, on April 21. The day is also auspiciously known as Ram Navmi for the celebration of the birth of Shri Ram. This year’s program included the re-enactment of the Yash Gatha, a musical narration of the journey led by Bhagwan Swaminarayan and a depiction of his countless spiritual endeavors.
The youth of BAPS brought to life the story through the singing of the Yash Gatha. With each stanza, a part of the journey was depicted, accompanied by dances, speeches and dramas interspersed throughout the performance.
The story began with portrayals from Bhagwan Swaminarayan’s birth to his childhood, a time when he was known by the name of Ghanshyam. The audience stilled as the first notes began, the world disappearing behind them as the music delved into the life of a young boy, whose journey touched the hearts of thousands.
The intensity of the scenes re-enacted by the youth drew the audience in. The subtle crescendo hidden in the music of the Yash Gatha grew as the story developed to describe the sacrifices made by Bhagwan Swaminarayan.
ollowing the codes and standards shared through ancient Hindu scriptures including the Vedas and Upanishads, Bhagwan Swaminarayan taught others to live by virtues such as compassion and integrity and to share these values with others.
These teachings were further shared through the stories narrated about Shri Ram, who sacrificed everything to be the ideal son while maintaining his dharma, or code of behavior.
From describing the movement to uplift women to the practice of ahimsa (principle of non-violence) to helping enlighten a generation of people, Bhagwan Swaminarayan helped increase the moral standard of living for many in an age where adharma once prevailed.
The music connected with the members of the audience bringing them together to commemorate the birth and legacy of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. Today, the continuation of this journey is seen through His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj who continues to inspire devotees to follow the same moral teachings.
Earlier in the day, a blood drive took place at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir. Devotees, as well as visitors, took time out to donate blood, collecting over 63 pints. Blood drives will continue throughout the year as BAPS Charities is dedicated to serving the community. BAPS Charities will also be holding its 16th annual walk-a-thon at Veteran’s Park in Chino Hills, helping causes such as the American Heart Association and the Chino Hills Community Foundation.
India Post News Service
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