His Divine Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj performed a historic Shilanyas Vidhi (foundation stone laying ceremony) of a Shikharbaddh Mandir in Atlanta.

In 1980, the pillars of satsang started being established in the greater Atlanta area. When Pujya Doctor Swami visited Atlanta in 1982, he organized a formal satsang mandal to look after satsang activities. In 1988, Swamishri performed the murti pratishtha ceremony of the first BAPS mandir in the South East region. When Swamishri visited again in year 2000, he performed the Bhoomi Poojan (ground breaking ceremony) of the newly acquired land for the construction of a Shikharbaddh Mandir. Finally, in 2004, Swamishri, in the presence of saints and devotees, performed the Shilanyas Vidhi and gave many blessings for its completion.

At the conclusion of the mahapooja, Swamishri blessed the yajmans (participants of the ceremony). Swamishri informed that Shri Harikrishna Maharaj has become very happy for the dedication of all the devotees. He also stated that Bhagwan Swaminarayan and the Guru Parampara have blessed everyone, and will look after the mandir’s successful completion. He also prayed for everyone’s good health; good fortune and wealth; and peace of mind. During the Shilanyas Mahotsav assembly, Swamishri mentioned that a mandir is a place where humanitarian and educational services are inspired and executed; however, he said it is mainly for practicing devotion to God and liberating one’s soul.

Many dignitaries from the city of Lilburn and Gwinnett County were present at the event. The mayor of the city of Lilburn, Mr. Jack Bolton, presented the “Key to the City” to Swamishri. A proclamation was also sent from Governor Sonny Perdue’s office recognizing the importance of a mandir and the good citizens it produces.