Grand city procession including seven elephants

Time has truly flown as we find ourselves near the end of a Mahotsav that seems like it began so much more recently – such as been the bliss and enjoyment experienced during the celebrations so far.

Acharya Swamishree Maharaj mounted His golden chariot, wearing beautifully brocaded red and gold garments, showering His divine darshan to the gathered disciples. Shree Muktajeevan Swamibapa Pipe Bands from Nairobi (Kenya) and New Jersey (USA) saluted Acharya Swamishree Maharaj before leading His hand-drawn chariot into the Sabha Mandap and towards the sinhasan.

Today’s divine ashirwad from Acharya Swamishree Maharaj was about the positive transformation in one’s heart, mind and life that occurs as a result of having a sincere and resolute association with the Faith. To read highlights of Acharya Swamishree Maharaj ashirwad, follow @SGadiManinagarr or click here Day 5 - Morning Sabha

Today’s main guest was Shankarsinh Vaghela, Leader of Opposition in the Gujarat Legislative Assembly, and former Chief Minister of Gujarat, who was honoured along with a number of other guests with paags and mementos of the Mahotsav.

Unforgettable Grand Procession with seven elephants draws in thousands

On a hot afternoon with the sun blazing, an amazing sight of seven elephants lining the Isanpur Road in Ahmedabad greeted disciples and onlookers alike.

The Nagar Yatra (grand street procession) started at Jay-mala Circle, Bhadvatnagar, when Acharya Swamishree Maharaj boarded His elephant to a cheering crowd. The procession, 4km long, had five Shree Muktajeevan Swamibapa Pipe Bands from Maninagar, London. USA, Nairobi, and Bolton, one brass band, seven dancing groups from the female congregations in India, USA, Africa and the UK and a golden intricately decorated chariot.

The Pipe Bands collectively saluted Lord Shree Swaminarayanbapa Swamibapa and Acharya Swamishree Maharaj to kick of the procession.

A true spectacle that thousands of people came to watch and attain the divine darshan of Acharya Swamishree Maharaj, who was bestowing His blessings throughout the entire parade. Many took the opportunity to carry out aarti as the procession passed by them. Some even fed the elephants carrying the palanquins of Lord Shree Swaminarayanbapa Swamibapa and Acharya Swamishree Maharaj, understanding that they would be blessed by serving these servants of God.

The Grand Procession ended at Smruti Mandir in the setting sun with all five bands playing together and all seven dance groups dancing together. Disciples' hearts filled with joy as the seven elephants lined up and Acharya Swamishree Maharaj descended to a jubilant dancing crowd.