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NORTH AMERICAN Newsline NOVEMBER 07, 2025 | The Indian Eye 24

BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in Robbinsville, NJ

Celebrates Diwali with a Message of Unity

OUR BUREAU

Robbinsville, NJ
rom October 18 to October 26, 2025, BAPS
Swaminarayan Akshardham in Robbins-
Fville, New Jersey, radiated with the spirit
of Diwali — the Hindu festival of lights — under
this year’s special theme: Unity. The celebra-
tions highlighted the values of harmony, compas-
sion, and togetherness that Diwali inspires, re-
minding all that when individuals and families
come together, they strengthen not only their
bonds but also the fabric of the wider community.
Thousands of devotees, well-wishers, and visi-
tors from across tri-state area gathered at the cam-
pus to celebrate the victory of light over darkness,
goodness over evil, and harmony over division.
Among the many highlights of the multi-day fes-
tivities was a breathtaking fireworks display that illu-
minated the night sky over the Akshardham court-
yard. The celebration began with a serene maha aarti devotion while also showcasing the dedication and an experience of coming together. In a world where
— a collective offering of light and devotion — setting collective spirit of the community. differences often divide, our goal this year was to
the tone for an evening that blended spirituality and “Working with so many dedicated volunteers remind everyone that unity is our greatest strength
spectacle. The fireworks that followed were a daz- to prepare for Diwali showed me how service can and the light that dispels all darkness.”
zling symphony of color and sound, symbolizing the bring us closer together as a family and community,” His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj shared
collective aspiration for unity and peace. Local dig- said Ami Shah. his Diwali blessings, encouraging all to let the light
nitaries and public officials from Mercer County and Beyond the rituals, the celebration engaged of unity shine in their lives: “Our prayerful blessings
beyond joined the gathering, witnessing first-hand the families and guests of all ages with activities such that Bhagwan Swaminarayan may keep you all hap-
profound sense of togetherness that Diwali inspires. as fireworks, interactive exhibits, and education- py in body, mind and means; that you all may keep
In preparation for the celebration, volunteers al programs that conveyed the meaning of Diwali. peace in your hearts; that unity increases in your
dedicated weeks of effort to create a vibrant atmo- These experiences fostered learning while building family; faith and devotion towards Bhagwan grow;
sphere at the mandir. The grounds were adorned connections across generations. and that the strength to follow the commandments
with colorful decorations, intricate rangoli designs, “Experiencing Diwali at the BAPS Swamina- of Satsang is obtained.”
and displays of light, offering visitors an immersive rayan Akshardham, Robbinsville, NJ filled me with BAPS mandirs across North America joined
cultural and spiritual experience that reflected both joy,” said Rama Joshi. “I came from India and was in hosting Diwali celebrations, offering a space for
devotion and artistry. looking forward to this celebration. The lights, the spiritual reflection, cultural appreciation, and com-
A central feature of the festival was the ‘Anna- Annakut, and the sense of community remind me munity unity. As the lights of Diwali continue to
kut,’ or “mountain of food,” in which hundreds of of the traditions I grew up with, while also creating inspire, the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham re-
vegetarian dishes prepared by devotees of all ages new memories with my family here.” mains a place where individuals and families come
were beautifully arranged and offered to the Divine. Speaking on the occasion, Hari Patel shared, together to celebrate tradition, strengthen values,
The Annakut served as a symbol of gratitude and “Diwali at Akshardham is more than a festival — it’s and foster goodwill.

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