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Fourteen days after the terrorist attack
on Akshardham, the entire complex - with its main monument and exhibition
halls - were ceremoniously declared open by Pujya Ishwarcharan Swami
and senior sadhus. The opening ceremony took place at 9.34 a.m.
with the chanting of Vedic peace prayers (Shanti Path), mantras
and worship. After the auspicious ceremony of splitting a coconut
and untying a nada-chhadi at the main gate, over 500 BAPS sadhus
and devotees walked towards the main monument chanting the Swaminarayan
dhun.
Then the traditional Janmangal Namavali - 108 names of Bhagwan Swaminarayan
- was chanted by all as rice grains were offered as abhishek to
the murti of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. This ritual is performed to remove
any fears and reinstate an atmosphere of divinity and peace in the
entire complex. In conclusion, arti and mantra pushpanjali were
offered.
The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) are looking after the security
of Akshardham complex. All visitors have to pass through a metal
detector and frisking to ensure the safety and security of the complex.
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