Akshardham Vibhuti Mandovar

Akshardham Mandapams

Akshardham Garbhagruh

Akshardham Mandir

Shri Nityanand Swami

Nityanand Swami

Nityanand Swami

Birth Place: Dantiya
Father: Vishnusharma
Mother: Virjadevi
Name: Dinmani Sharma
Birth: VS 1812, Kartik Sud 5, Thursday
Caste: Yajurvedi Brahmin

Dinmani Sharma's family were very rich. He went Kashi to learn and acquire knowledge from Jagjit Pandit. He wanted darshan of Lord Swaminarayan and to acquire this, he proceeded towards Badrinath. On the way, he joined other pilgrims and found no joy there. He then went to Jugnathpuri and done his pilgrimage but still could not find any happiness. He then proceeded to Dwarika and came near Vishuajar. He heard about Lord Swaminarayan and that He is Purshottam Narayan currently in Saurashtra.

He started searching for Lord Swaminarayan. He came to Faneni, met Prabhutanand Swami and learnt that Lord Swaminarayan will be arriving in a town called Uza. Lord Swaminarayan arrived there after a few days. He was at the bank of a lake where a sabha was being held. Dinmani went to meet Lord Swaminarayan with some other devotees. He saw a divine light emanating from Lord Swaminarayan. Dinmani felt that this person was Purshottam Narayan himself. Dinmani did darshan and felt fulfilled. He expressed his wish to stay as a servant of Lord Swaminarayan. Lord Swaminarayan accepted and Dinmani stayed there for few days. After some time, Lord Swaminarayan gave 'Bhagwadi Diksha' and named him Nityanand Swami. Lord Swaminarayan requested him to learn and obtain detailed knowledge of Sanskrit and other religious knowledge.

Lord Swaminarayan always kept Nityanand Swami with other Swamis. When Lord Swaminarayan met Sir Malcolm (representative of the British Empire) in Ahmdabad, Nityanand Swami was among the 4 sadhus with Him.

Nityanand Swami and Brahamand Swami would usually debate each other on religious topics. Sometimes Nityanand Swami would win and sometimes Brahamand Swami would win.

Nityanand Swami would always be consulted by Lord Swaminarayan when letters to government officials (British Empire) were written. Lord Swaminarayan also consulted Nityanand Swami when the Desh Vibhag Lekh was written.

Nityanand Swami would attend the discourses arranged by other sampraday. He debated with other saints and was always the winner. No one could put a constructive argument against him. He was one of the saints to write Vachanmrut and he translated the Shikshapatri in Gujurati which was authenticated by Lord Swaminarayan.

During the last days of Lord Swaminarayan, Nityanand Swami was with Him. Lord Swaminarayan gave the prints of His lotus feet to Nityanand Swami and told him to install them at Laxmivadi where a Temple would be erected on the ground where He would be cremated.

Shri Brahmanand Swami

Brahmanand Swami

Brahmanand Swami

Bhumanand Swami was born as Rupjibhai in VS 1852 in a town called Keshiya near Jamnagar. His father was called Ramjibhai and his mother was called Kuverbai, his family name was Kadiya Rathod. 
He was a sincere and devoted person and composed many kirtans about bhakti.  He composed the Ghanshyam Leelamrut Sagaar scripture.  He was persuaded by a friend to go to Gadhada to find the Lord.  There he did meet the Lord and the scene is captured in the kirtan, ‘Sarve sakhi jeevan jova ne chalo re …’.  After a four day fast he wrote the prominent 'thal' that is sung within the sampraday, ‘Jamo thal jeevan jau vari…’.  Bhumanand Swami died in VS 1924 in Manasa.

Shri Sukanand Swami(Mother of Sampraday)

Shri Sukanand Swami

Shri Sukanand Swami(Mother of Sampraday)

Birth Place: Dabhan (Darbhavthi) near Vadtal
Birth Name: Jagnath Bhutt
Caste: Brahmin

Shukanand Swami (the private secretary of Lord Swaminarayan) from VS 1855 to 1925

At a very young age, Jagnath Bhutt was educated in Sanskrit and learnt other activities which were required as a Brahmin. He was obeying Naishtik Brahamchari (celibacy) rules. He regularly associated himself with holy Sadhus. One day, he came in touch with Swaminarayan Sadhus which were going to Durghpur (Gadhada) and decided to join them.

He stayed in Durghpur for some time under the guidance of Muktanand Swami as he was a very important Sadhu. Muktanand Swami gave Maha Diksha to Jagnath Bhutt under the guidance of Lord Swaminarayan. He was given the name of Shukanand Swami (Sukh Muni in short) and Muktanand Swami always kept Shukanand Swami near him. Because Shukanand was a very good writer who would not miss anything, Lord Swaminarayan appointed him to write personal and private letters. He was referred to as Lord's right hand man.

Lord Swaminarayan once said, "this swami is my devote Sadhu and possesses great saintly values which are increasing over time, he has some saintly qualities as Muktanand Swami." (Vachanamrit, Kariyani 3)

Lord Swaminarayan appreciated Shukanand Swami by saying that he likes three things in Dabhan:

A mango tree, now in Laxmiwadi

An ox which was used for transportation of sadhus

Shukanand Swami

One day, Shukanand Swami was writing letters which were dictated by Lord Swaminarayan at night. The oil in the lamp finished and it was getting dark. Shukanand Swami said, "Oh Lord, I cannot write any more as there is no light." Lord Swaminarayan decided to show him His divine presence by glowing his right thumb of His leg. The glow was so intense that Shukanand Swami could hardly see. He felt the divine presence but could not write anything. He requested Lord Swaminarayan to reduce the light so he can continue writing the letters.

One day, Shukanand Swami was very ill and could not walk. He sent a message to Lord Swaminarayan that he cannot come today to write any letters. Lord Swaminarayan wanted to show him His divine powers so asked two people to bring him. Shukanand Swami asked what he can do for the Lord. Lord Swaminarayan looked at him and the illness disappeared. From that day on, he was never ill again except for one case.

When Lord Swaminarayan left this world, Shukanand Swami was always sad and felt the pain of separation from the Lord. He prayed to Lord Swaminarayan asking for some illness so that the pain of separation can be reduced. Lord Swaminarayan obliged and for 12 years he had slight pain.

Shukanand Swami spread satsang in Umreth town and towns around it after Lord Swaminarayan left this world.

He was one of the five sadhus who compiled and wrote the Vachanamrut.

Scriptures written:

• Commentary of Satsangi Jivan
• Gnan Dip which consists of 39 Sloks
• Vishwa Mangal Stotra
• Bhagwat 10th Skand in Gujurati
• Hari Gita (located in Satsangi Jivan) in Gujurati
• Satsangi Jivan 2nd part, Bhakti Adhyay in Gujurati
• Dharmamrut in Gujurati
• Bhudhi Pradip in Gujurati
• Prathnamala in Gujurati
• Desh Vibhag no Lekh
• He left this world in Vadtal on Samvat 1925 Maksar Vad 30.

Shri Muktanand Swami, Mother of Sampraday

Shri Muktanand Swami 

Shri Muktanand Swami Mother of Sampraday 

Birth Place : Amareli
Distt. : Amareli (Saurashtra), Gujarat State.
Date of Birth : The 7th day of the bright half of Pausha, V.S. 1814.
Father : Anandram
Mother : Radhabai
First Name : Mukund Das.

At the time of his birth, the child Mukunddas impressed everybody by his spiritually wisdom and was therefore named 'Mukund Das.' In his childhood, he was quite different than the rest of the children in his age group. When children of his age group were indulging in sports, and games Mukund was sitting quietly in seclusion with the closed eyes. Mukunddas learnt Vedas, scriptures and music from his two teachers - Jaduram and Hathiram. Both of whom were scholars in literature and fine arts. The disciple - Mukunddas was a genius, within a few years he mastered the art of music and the knowledge of religious scriptures.
He practiced celibacy with a strong will and firm determination to propagate the path of devotion. His parents were much worried about the attitude of Mukunddas and were sacred of losing such a genius child. To tie him into worldly affairs they arranged the marriage of Mukunddas.

During his conjugal life, Mukunddas stood firm in his resolute of practising celibacy and detachment. Besides these great virtues, he began acting mentally deranged to invoke a sense of dislike from his family members. Thus, acting like a madman he posed himself as a great nuisance. Thus, in such self generated circumstance he left the region under the cover of night.

He visited many villages and towns in his countrywide search for a saint who can help him in overpower his senses against the objects of desire. Thus he reached Dhrangadhra and stayed with the sage Dwarkadas in Rang-Mahol. He served Dwarkadas with his best with a request to help him in controlling and out-rooting desires. Dwarkadas pointed him towards saint Kalyandas of Vankaner who had destroyed his sensual desires and wore an undergarment made of brass. Mukunddas surrendered at the feet of Kalyandas and prayed for his blessing in his mission of destroying sensual desires. But Kalyandas explained to Mukunddas the element of paramount of sense organs and their immense power. Also he disclosed flatly that it was impossible to destroy sensual desires.

Mukunddas was greatly perturbed and cried like a helpless child. In such a distraught state, he heard some divine words telling him to visit Sardhar to meet a great saint. Mukunddas came to Sardhar (Saurashtra). His journey was halted at Ramchandrajis Mandir where he met saint Tulsibhava and remained under his guidance. He earned the pleasure of Tulisbhava by doing Poojan Archan of the Gods in the temple, collecting Bhiksha for the residents of the temple, offering meals to pilgrims at the temple and reading Ramayan-Katha every evening. Saint Tulisbava entrusted to him total responsibility of pantry, Kitchen, store and treasure of the jewellery and ornaments of Gods etc. Mukunddas handled this responsibilities very carefully.

After some time, the audience at the Ram Katha reduced to a remarkable low number. When he inquired about the cause, Tulsibhava said that devotees these days have diverted to Ramanand Swami who was camping close by the temple. Out of his curiosity, Mukunddas went to do darshan of Ramanand Swami. No sooner had he laid his eyes upon the Swami all his mental anxieties and desires vanished. He felt a state of total bliss in the presence of the Swami. Mukunddas recalled the divine words he had previously heard and was sure that they been referring to this Great Swami before him.

Mukunddas began to daily visit the satsang sabhas held by Ramanand Swami and requested that he take him as a disciple .Ramanand Swami refused without permission from his Guru and Tulsibhava refused to permit him to go. Once again Mukunddas adopted the stimulated madness by wasting food grains and funds on the visitors and beggars. Seeing Mukunddas a nuisance Tulsibhava relieved him form his discipleship and Mukunddas came to Ramanand Swami with a written permission from his previous preceptor. Ramanand Swami was gracing Bandhia - a small village in the region at the time and asked Mukunddas to work as labourer in a farm of one devotee Shri Malubhai. Although he knew nothing about agriculture, Mukunddas followed the orders of the Swami and did the job to his best capacity. Mulubhai reported back to Ramanand Swami, highlighting Mukunddas's commitment and dedication. Swami pleased called him back to his hermitage, administrated Bhagwati Deeksha and gave him the sainthood name of Muktanandji.

Thus, Muktanand Swami held main seat as principal disciple of Ramanand Swami. He mastered the eight folded yogic state. Ramanand Swami in one of the sabhas of spiritual heights disclosed that he himself was a small time player of the hand-drum and the real showman was yet to come. He asked Muktanand to settle in village Loej to open free food camp serve all pilgrims there and one amongst these will be Purushottam Narayan. Thus Muktanand Swami awaited the arrival of Lord Purushottam Narayan.

One day, Sadhu Sukhanand a fellow saint and devotee residing at the hermitage found an young saint with divine aura bathing by a well near the village. Impressed by the sight of the divine attributes he took the young brahmchari to hermitage and introduced him to Muktanand Swami on the auspicious 6th day of the bright half of Shravan in V.S. 1856. Muktanand Swami found himself drawn towards the divine presence of the youthful saint and coming forward offered pranams. On a mutual introduction, Muktanand Swami gathered that the visitor was the son of DharmaDev and BhaktiDevi, and had spent seven years in the seclusion of the mountains and forests. His present name was Varniraj Shri Nilkanth Brahmchari.

Nilkanth Brahmchari stayed at the hermitage of Loej. Ramanand Swami in Bhuj during those days knew of this through the correspondence and advised Muktanand Swami to ask Nilkanth Varni to stay and wait for him at Loej. As per the orders from Ramanand Swami Nilkant Varni waited in Loej for Guru Ramanand.

Satsang gives great importance to Muktanand Swami, because the foundation of this great sect was laid by him by closing interactive window between hermitage and neighbour, and separated women from the gents in Satsang Sabha on instance from Nilkanth Brahmchari.

He, though in age was senior to Shri Hari, but in succession to Ramanand Swami he proposed Shri Hari as the successive preceptor and head of the sect. Thus S.G. Muktanand Swami lived under the auspices of Shri Hari who always respected him like a Guru. Muktanand Swami too possessed such sentiments for Shri Hari, that he was always ready to act upon His words.

Muktanand Swami was also an expert instrumentalist, vocalist, preacher and orator besides being a great saint. He was equally at ease in dancing. He could transform any evil element into a divine entity by his affectionate discourses. Shri Hari called him 'The mother of Satsang' because of his motherly love, tolerance and smooth interaction.

Muktanand Swami and fellow saints had a deep influence on the society due to their commitment towards renunciation and strict behaviour. It was obvious that evil forces in general and Khakhi Vairagis in particular were facing hard times due to shortage of intoxicating substances. Therefore, Khakhi Vairayis were always angry at Bhagwan Swaminarayan and his saints. They saw them as their enemies and prowled upon them on any opportune time. Once a mob of 200 such Vairagis laced with deadly weapons rushed to the camping place of Muktanand Swami and his saints. Muktanand Swami was extremely wise and practical. He always acted in tune with time. Without wasting a moment, he rose and ran towards the mob of the Khakhi Vairagis and said loudly with both the hands raised towards the sky

'Great time ! Great fortune ! We have been blessed by the salvaged souls of Vaikuntha. Such an opportunity is available only if there are good deeds of the past ages. We are realy fortunate !'
Khakhi Vairagis were taken aghast at such reaction from Muktanand Swami and the saints following the steps of Mukta Muni ! Then Mukta Muni said to his siants. 'It is not the moment to wait. It is a unique gift. Come on, bow to them.' The atmosphere changed instantly and Khakhi Vairagis temper cooled automatically and bowed to Swami.

There are many instances of his practical wisdom. Though he himself was wedded to renunciation and strict rules of behaviour, he always behaved with practical wisdom and never allowed rigidity to enter into his behaviour. Once Muktanand Swami was on a religious tour along with sixty saints on a mission to propagate religion. They passed three days and three nights without any food in alms. One affectionate devotee invited the saints and cooked Khichadi for them. The saint had a vow to take only food in it's simplest form and as per the vow would not take ghee, milk, oil, jaggary, sugar and other savouries. The devotee cooked Khichadi accordingly, but he added Ghee into the dish which was meant to be offered to God in Thaal. After offering the Thaal, he mixed that Khichadi in the rest. The saints therefore rejected the Khichadi with Ghee. Already having fasted three days they saw a forth day coming. The day following next that was the day of Ekadashi. Hence to avoid the five consecutive days of fasting, Muktanand Swami said to the saints, 'Take Khichadi in Ghee today. Penalty from Shriji Maharaj for this disobedience shall be borne by me. I shall undertake the repentance if there is any from Shriji Maharaj.' With these words, he asked the saint to have the meal. Some saints complained to Shriji Maharaj for non compliance of His command by Muktanand Swami. Muktanand Swami confessed the facts before Shriji Maharaj and prayed for its' repentance. Instead of penalty or reprimand, Shriji Maharaj commanded him for taking care of the saint. he praised him for his timely behaviour and practical wisdom.

A similar episode also took place in Ahmedabad where young saints were studying sankrit. The saints were ordered to take the food only once in a day. But the young and studious saints, after a full day of hard work, felt hungry the next morning. One day, the saints were enjoying surplus loaves of the previous day. Meanwhile, Muktanand Swami came to visit. Seeing the swami before them, the younger saints in fear and panic of being caught dropped the loaves. Muktanand Swami being the Mother figure that he was went to the saints and said, 'I am also hungry. Give me some if you have !' The young saints relaxed and offered a piece of loaf to Muktanand Swami from which he ate a morsel from!

An incident in Gadhada exemplifies his versatility. Some musicians from Gwalior were come to Gadhada after establishing their superiority everywhere. They were very proud of their victories and sent a call to Shriji Maharaj to take part in a competition of instrumental and vocal music. They further prayed that they should be awarded a big prize if they win. Shriji Maharaj invited them into the evening assembly and gave them a befitting welcome at a well decorated venue. Shriji Maharaj asked Muktanand Swami to perform. Swami tied Ghungharu on his feet, took Kartaal in his hand and bowed to Shriji Maharaj before singing. Swami lifted his one leg from the floor and with the toe of the other leg he started slipping backward while singing on the stroke of kartal. He finished the session in half an hour. The musician from Gwealior were all full of praise for the Swami. Then Shriji Maharaj drew their attention towards the dancing floor. The musicians arose and saw for themselves that Swami had drawn with his toe and fingers of his foot a picture of an elephant while in reverse motion. They bowed to Shriji Maharja and Swami and prayed, 'Oh ! This saint is the treasure of arts. We are nothing before him.

Muktanand Swami was equally at ease with poetry too. He composed poems spontaneously. 'Mukund Bavani' is a collection of his devotional poetry. His creations are abstract and meaningful. He has written books on several subjects. 'Muktanand Kavya' is the collection of his works. 

Shree Devanand Swami

Shree Devanand Swami

SadGuru (S.G.) Devanand Swami is the saintly poet from the group of eight great saintly poets contemporary to Shri Hari. Balol is the brith place of S.G. Devanand Swami. He was born on the full moon day of Kartika in V.S. 1859, in the house of Jijibhai and Benjibaa in Balol.

In his early childhood, he was named 'Devidaan'. and since childhood he was a firm devotee of Lord Shiva. His father too, worshipped Lord Shiva and the heritage of the devotion of Lord Shiva was maintained well in Devidaan. Both father and son went to offer prayers to Lord Shiva in the temple of Lord Sankaleshwar Mahadev at the outskirt of Balol.

Once, Devidaam went alone to the temple to worship Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva pleased at the devotional love of the child gave Darshan. Child Devidaan was elated with this divine view of his God and prayed to Lord Shiva for his ultimate benediction. In response to his prayer, Lord Shiva directed him to Lord Swaminarayan Bhagwan and told him that the omnipresent supreme Lord Shriji Maharaj has descended on the earth. Maharaj would visit your village and you will recognise him by a leela He will conduct of His tongue touching his elbows. Surrender to His godly shelter. You would earn the fame as a great poet and would attain Moksha (ultimate emancipation).

Lord Shriji Maharaj graced Balol after concluding a sacred fire in Jetalpur Dhaam. Whole village came to him for his Darshan. Entire village community insisted He come for meals at there homes, but Shriji Maharaj avoided their hearty invitation , because of his commitments elsewhere. He was in great hurry. But His devotee Raiya Khatana offered a porridge of sweet milk. While gracing a seat on bullock cart, Shriji Maharaj honoured this hearty meal from His firm follower. Pretending to act like a human being to give devotional pleasure to his devotees, he allowed the stream of the milk flow on his hand and reach his elbows. Then he licked it of with his tongue. Devidaan, who was standing in the crowd of the devotees, saw this act of Shriji Maharaj and words of Lord Shiva echoed in his mind 'remember this sign and recognise Him.'

He fell at the Lords feet and prayed, 'Oh Lord ! Please accept me in your service.' 'I have come here to receive you,' said Maharaj in reply. Thus, Devidaan became a firm follower of Shriji Maharaj, and Shriji Maharaj entrusted him to Brahmanand Swami. Brahmanand Swami arranged his Bhagwati Deeksha and Devidaan became Devanand Swami.

Devanand Swami learnt from his Guru Brahmanand Swami the art of constructing poems and mastered the technique of musical verse. With the grace of God and with favour of his guru, he became an excellent poet within a short time. Ragas appeared in human form before him as soon he began his devotional music.

Devanand Swami presented Kirtans on the tunes of musical instruments at the special Satsang Sabha, when Shriji Maharaj installed the idols of Lord Narnarayandev and other gods in Ahmedabad temple. Other singers and composers were highly impressed by vocal and instrumental music of Devanand Swami. With the due blessing from Shriji Maharaj, when he presented devotional music in front of royal musicians of Dharampur State the musicians at the court surrendered to him and worshipped him as their Guru.

Devanand Swami was become Mahant Swami of Muli temple on Aksharvaas of Brahmanand Swami. For rest of his life he served Lord Radhakrishna Dev in Muli Dhaam. His Kirtans are simple, pointed and sharp like the literary works of Bhoja Bhagat. His devotional fever, touches the heart of the listener. Devanand Swami is the Guru of the great poet Dalpatram of Gujarati Language.

On the nineth day of the dark half of Shravan in V.S. 1910, Devanand Swami sent for his devotee tailor and told him that he was to leave for Akshardham on the next day. Devotee tailor was shocked at such words, 'But Swami ! You are fully fit and in sound health. Why are you talking such words ?' Then in answer to it, Devanand Swami instructed him that in the next morning if he sees five steps of Kumkum on the threshold of his house, he should understand that Devanand Swami has left his earthly dwelling. On the next day, i.e. on the tenth day of the dark half of Sharavana, he saw five steps of Kumkum on his threshold. He ran immediately to the temple and found Swami departed to Akshardhaam. Such was the majesty and glory of Devananand Swami. 

Shree Premanad Swami ( Premsakhi )

Shree Premanad Swami

Premanad Swami

Premanand Swami was born as Hathiram in the town of Dora Bharuch in VS 1840. He was born to Hindu parents who abandoned him at a young age. A Muslim family raised him, his foster father was called Dosatai.
Dosatai was a good father and wanted Hathiram to learn the art of music. For this reason Dosatai sent Hathiram to Vadodara to learn music. After some time, Lord Swaminarayan had arranged a musical concert, which Dosatai and Hathiram attended. This is where the affection and love between Hathiram and Lord Swaminarayan commenced. Thereafter Hathiram stayed with Lord.

Lord Swaminarayan gave Hathiram diksha and named him Nijbodhanand Swami. His name was later changed to Premanand, due to his extreme love for Lord. He was a born poet, many of his hymns are sung daily by devotees. Premanand Swami composed the words of the Chesta Pad, which is sung and recited daily at all Swaminarayan temples. He also wrote the Premanand Kavya. Premanand Swami died in VS 1911 in Gadhada. 

Shree Gopalanand Swami

Gopalanand Swami

Gopalanand Swami

Birth Place : Village - Todala
Tehsil : Idar
Distt. : Sabarkantha
Father : Motiram Bhatt
Mother : Kushalbaa
First Name : Khushal Bhatt
Date of Birth : The 8th day of the bright half of Maha in V.S. 1837.

At the time of Gopalanand Swami's birth his elated parents listening to the prophecy of a brahmin astrologer, named him 'Khushal' (pleasurable).
Khushal Bhatt, learnt scriptures at his schooling age. A brahmin - Kashiram came to Todala in those days from who he learnt about the glory and greatness of Lord Swaminarayan Bhagwan. It was at this stage in his childhood that he vowed to go and do darshan of Lord Swaminarayan.

Meanwhile, he learnt about a visit of Sarveshwaranand Swami in Dabhoi. Khushal Bhatt reached Dabhoi and attended discourses of Sadhu Sarveshwaranand Swami and joined the religious pilgrimage with Sarveshwaranand from Dabhoi to Dabhan where he did darshan of Lord Sahajanand.

Lord Shriji Maharaj rose from his seat, came forward and hugged Khushal Bhatt with great love and affection. Khushal Bhatt submitted to Shriji Maharaj his desire to live with Him forever, but Shriji Maharaj asked him to go back. Honouring the command of his Lord, Khushal Bhatt came back to Todala, started a school there and taught the village children. Besides academic teaching, he gave theological knowledge and spiritual insight to his disciples.

Once a Brahmin came to his village and exhibited his mystic power on the idols Lord Vishnu in his Pooja .. Khushal Bhatt made up his mind to test the spiritual strength of the Brahmin and invited him to his house for a meal. Brahmin came, had a meal, gave an idol of Lord Vishnu to Khushal Bhatt and returned to his camping place. The Brahmin then tried all his mystic means and tantrums throughout whole night to recall Lord Vishnu back to him, but the idol would not go. As he found his prestige at stake, he escaped overnight to other place.

Once, there was no rain in the Todala area and the people, under the fear of the oncoming draught, came to Khushal Bhatt and prayed for him to help to them. Through his meditation, Khushal Bhatt brought the rain along with prosperity in the area. Once during his meditation trance luminosity was emitted in such a great amount from his person that he was become visible from far flung places.

Now came the time for meeting his Guru and God Lord Shriji Maharaj. Khushal Bhatt desired to meet Lord Shriji Maharaj and remain in the everlasting shelter of his God. Shortly after this a Brahmin came to Khushal Bhatt and told him that he was on a visit of Kathiawar. Khushal Bhatt joined him in his pilgrimage. On the way , they discussed divine episodes of Lord Shriji Maharaj and reached Jetalpur. Then the brahmin informed Khushal Bhatt about Lord Shriji Maharaj camping at Jetalpur and asked him to do darshan of Shriji Maharaj. No sooner had he said this the brahmin disappeared into the air!

With this meeting in Jetalpur Dhaam, Khushal Bhatt became a permanent member of this cosmic family and stayed with his God - Lord Shri Hari - till his last breath.

Khushal Bhatt was capable of transforming the impossible into possible. One Brahmin of Bhavnagar changed his mind after promising to sell his Mahabharat Scripture for Rupees 300/-. Khushal Bhatt came to Bhavnagar and visited him. The Brahmin was in Pooja of his Gods but the idols of God turned off their faces from him. This happened repeatedly throughout the rituals of Poojan-Archan but the brahmin though frightened by this miracle continued his pooja. That night and in the middle of the sleep, he saw the God of death to take him to the hell. He jumped from his bed and ran with the scripture and handed it over to Khushal Bhatt at his camping place.

When Khushal Bhatt graced Baroda under Shriji Maharaj's orders, Lord Shri Hari blessed Bhattji by His divine presence by having meals with him regularly. Devotee families used to witness the food disappearing gradually from the Thaal (plate) of Khushal Bhatt. Thereafter, Khushal Bhatt was made a saint and disciple in this Sampradaya by the aministration of Bhagwati Diksha by Shriji Maharaj. Shriji Maharaj gave him the name Gopalanand.

In Baroda, when the devotees in a religious ceremony desired to do darshan of Lord Yagyanarayan. The swamii offered sacrifice to the holy fire with invocation to God of fire and Lord Yagyanarayan appeared before him in His blissful form to receive the sacrifice. Throughout that holy-fire Lord Yagyanarayan gave the divine pleasure of his darshan to the devotees present at the place of holy-fire and received the sacrifice personally from Gopalaland Swami.
Kasiyaji of Petlad was a senior officer in Gaikwar-Government but was against the temple being constructed in Vadtal Dhamm. Out of vengeance he imposed heavy bill on the items being sent to the temple. Observing his attitude for quite some time, the swami came once to the court of Kasiyaji with Dada Khachar and two saints, and sat before the court in a blissful mood. Kasiaji jolted with fear on just one glance at the Swami. Meer Sahib who was sitting besides Kasiaji too felt the fear created by the presence of the Swami. Meer Sahib inquired sheepishly after some time about the purpose of the visit. In response the swami demanded directly the documents related to the exemption from the octroi, for completion of the construction of the temple. Both were so much crushed under the mental pressure that they issued it on the spot and handed it over to the swami.

Vagha Khachar of Saranagpur was serving the devotees and thus was favouring Satsang by all his means. Gopalanand Swami pleased at this devotional love and blessed him by installing the idol of Lord Hanumandada in his place of service and invoked great divine power in that image. The majesty of that image is still famous and Godly power of Hanumandada helps the people troubled by ghosts and other spirits.

One of the swami's followers Narashibhai Maheta conquered his desires for the sense objects and removed it roots and branches with the due blessings of S.G. Gopalanand Swami. While patting the back of his devotee Narshibhai, Swami said to him that his response now to a sensual object shall be similar to that of a supporting pole.

Gopalanand Swami was grandiose and miraculous and also possessed equal opulence as Shriji Maharaj did. Clairvoyance, omniscience, control over universe, instant Samadhi, removing evil notions by mere a sight or touch, sensing others resolves etc. Shriji Maharaj declared him as the leader of the sect because of overall superior qualities. He was elder to Shriji Maharaj by only four months. Hence he enjoyed brotherly and friendly interaction with Shriji Maharaj. His submission to Shriji Maharaj was unparalleled. His opulence and grandeur were boundless. Such a great soul worshipped Shriji Maharaj. It is difficult to imagine the grandeur of Shriji Maharaj Himself 

Shree Gunatitanand Swami

Shree Gunatitanand Swami

Shree Gunatitanand Swami

Gunatitanand Swami was born as Mul Sharma in VS 1841, in the town of Bhadra in Gujarat. His father was called Bhodanath and his mother was called Sakarba.  He always saw the divine image of the Lord.  For about 40 years he stayed as Mahant at Junagadh Temple.  He died in VS 1923 in Gondal. 

P. P Ramanand Swami (Guru of Lord Swaminarayan)

 Ramanand Swami 

 Ramanand Swami 

Father: Ajay
Mother: Sumti
Birth Place: Ayodhya
Born: VS 1795 Shraven Vad 8, Janmastmi (in the morning)
Birth Name: Ramsharma
Caste: Brahmin

Ramsharma’s parents were proper devotees of Shree Krishna. In young age, Ramsharma was full of Dharm, Gyan and Vairagya. As he grew older, he got the strength to get himself detached to the family ties. He left home at a very young age and started his pilgrimage in search of a Guru inorder to have darshan of Lord Krishna. He met Atmanand Swami who initiated him and called him Ramanand Swami.

Atmanand Swami believed in formless (God is light only). Ramanand Swami could not bear this and left his guru. He walked down South of India and came to Shrirang. He studied Ramanujacharays holy books and became a devoted disciple. Ramanujacharya gave Ramanand Swami his divine vision in trance where he had the darshan of Lord Supreme. He started preaching about Bhakti, Dharam, Gyan and Varagya. Devotees of Ramanujacharya did not like this so Ramanand Swami had to leave. He walked to the north and came to Vrandavan. Here he continued his preaching. Lord Krishna gave him Divya (Devine) darshan and reminded him that he was Uddhavji in his previous life and that he should now spread the knowledge that he has passed to him. Lord Krishna initiated him again and he started a separate sampraday called Uddhav sampraday from Ramanujacharya but following the same tenants of Ramanujacharya Sampraday.

Uddhav Sampraday flourished and many devotees and sadhus started joining this Sampraday. Many devotees and sadhus treated Ramanand Swami as a true Guru who would teach them and help them seek salvation. There were several sadhus and one of the important one’s was Muktanand Swami.

When Nilkhanth Varni came to Loj and met Muktanand Swami, Muktanand Swami told Nilkhanth Varni about the glory of Ramanand Swami. Nilkhanth Varni remembered that Ramanand Swami had actually given diksha to his parents. Nilkhanth Varni wanted to meet Ramanand Swami so He wrote a letter. Muktanand Swami also wrote another letter. 2 letters were taken by Mayaram Bhatt to Bhuj at GangaRam Mal’s house where Ramanand Swami was residing. When Ramanand Swami started to read the letter, bright light started emanating from it. Ramanand Swami wrote two letters back to Loj. Muktanand Swami read his letter and Nilkhanth Varni read his letter.

In the meantime, Nilkhanth Varni was teaching Yoga (learned from Gopal Yogi) to other saints. Time passed but nothing was heard from Ramanand Swami. Nilkhanth Varni was growing impatient and said he will go to see Ramanand Swami. Muktanand Swami requested him to stay for a little while.

Ramanand Swami arrived at Piplana and stayed at Narshi Mahta’s house. A Message was sent to Nilkhanth Varni and Muktanand Swami and they started towards Piplana along Bhktaraj and Parbatbhai. On the way there was a river which was overflowing. Somehow everybody managed to cross it. Nilkhanth Varni met Ramanand Swami at Piplana on VS 1856 Veth. Nilkhanth Varni did danvat of Ramanand Swami. Ramanand Swami sat Nilkhanth Varni next to him along with Muktanand Swami.

Nilkhanth Varni started serving Ramanand Swami. On VS 1857 Kartik Sud 11 Wednesday (Prabodhni Ekadashi), Ramanand Swami gave Maha Diksha to Nilkhanth Varni. He was given the name of ‘Sahajanand Swami’ and ‘Narayan Muni.’ Ramanand Swami gave him Acharyaship at Jetpur on VS 1858 Kartik Sud 11 Monday. (Nilkhanth Varni was only 20years, 7months old).

After a couple of months, Ramanand Swami knew he had to leave this world. He called all his disciples at Faneni town and instructed everyone “you have been obeying me, I am Uddhavji Avtar but this Shree Sahajanand Swami is the Supreme god, Purna Purshottam Narayan himself. You should now serve him obediently and give single minded devotion if you wish to acquire ultimate salvation. My work is now over.”

There was a big festival and on the 12th day Ramanand Swami gave food to many saints and Brahmins. On 13th day in the morning Ramanand Swami took a bath in Chacha River and sat in the temple doing meditation and left this world chanting Lord Swaminarayan’s name. He left this world on 13th day of Magshar Sud Thursday 1858 (17-12-1801AD) thus released from Durvasha’s curse.

Shree Sahajanand Swami and the followers performed death rites of the Guru till the 13th day.

We all follow rituals and manner in which they are performed as per Ramananand Swami i.e. Ramanujacharya. Also Shikshapatri instructs us to do this.

Ramanand Swami had powers to put his devotees in Samadhi and give them vision of Lord Supreme.

Acharya Shree Koshalendra Prasadji Maharaj

DOB:
23 Oct 1972 V.S. 2028
Diksha:
14 Oct 2004 V.S. 2060

Shree Tejendraprasadji Maharaj

DOB:
11 April 1944 V.S. 2000
Diksha:
13 Oct 1969 V.S. 2025

Shree Devendraprasadji Maharaj

DOB:
5 Oct 1922 V.S. 1978
Diksha:
30 Nov 1937 V.S. 1993
Akshar. :
12 Oct 1969 V.S. 2025

Shree Vasudevprasadji Maharaj

DOB:
17 July 1899 V.S. 1955
Diksha:
25 Nov 1901 V.S. 1958
Akshar. :
29 Nov 1937 V.S. 1993

Acharya Shree Purshottamprasadji

DOB:
7 Feb 1870 V.S. 1926
Diksha:
9 April 1890 V.S. 1946
Akshar. :
25 Nov 1901 V.S. 1958

Acharya Shree Keshavprasadji Maharaj

DOB:
16 Apr 1835 V.S. 1891
Diksha:
18 Feb 1868 V.S. 1924
Aksharvas :
9 April 1890 V.S. 1946

Acharya Shree Ayodhyaprasadji Maharaj

DOB:
25 May 1809 V.S. 1865
Diksha:
11 Nov 1825 V.S. 1882
Aksharvas :
18 Feb 1868 V.S. 1924

Acharya Shree Viharilalji Maharaj

Born: 19th April 1852 
Acharyaship: 12th August 1879 
Aksharnivaas (Death): 27th September 1899 
Acharyaship Period: 20 Years

Acharya Shree Shripatiprasadji Maharaj

Born: 18th August 1875 
Acharyaship: 26th April 1909 
Aksharnivaas (Death): 12th February 1931
Acharyaship Period: 22 Years

Shree Viharilalji Maharaj

DOB: 19 April 1852 (V.S. 1908)

Diksha: 12 Aug 1879 (V.S. 1935)

Aksharvas : 27 Sep

Acharyas

DHARMAKUL

In the Swaminarayan Sampraday, DHARMAKUL refers to the divine lineage (GURU PARAMPARA) starting from Bhagwan Swaminarayan up to the present & future lineage of Acharyas (GURU). Dharmavanshi means belonging to the lineage of Dharmadev - the father of Bhagwan Swaminarayan.

To be or become 'Dharmakul Na Aashrit' or to be 'seeking refuge' in the Dharmakul implies that one had to be initiated by the respective Acharyas into the authentic Swaminarayan Sect so that one can qualify to:

1. Become a Swaminarayan devotee
2. Do authentic Bhakti (not just to reap fruits but to attain salvation as well).
3. Attain the divine abode (AKSHARDHAM) in the service of Bhagwan Swaminarayan.

The initiation of all Swaminarayan followers including the Sadhu’s (Saints), by the respective Acharya is what qualifies one to be in the genuine Swaminarayan Sect.

DHARMAVANSHI ACHARYA

"I shall always remain within the Acharyas from the family of My father, Dharmadev." - Swaminarayan Bhagwan instructed all his followers to consider the Acharyas as God-personified & serve their respective Acharya with total loyalty & humility.

By the time Swaminarayan Bhagwan was ready to return to his divine abode (AKSHARDHAM), he had already built six magnificent Shikharbandh (domed) temples. The satsangis (devotees) numbered over half a million & Sadhus, Parshads and Sankhya Yogis numbered in large as well. It was clear that to manage the growing Swaminarayan Sampraday would require a personality of immense powers of administration and persuasion; a task beyond any mortal being as per tenets of the sampraday.

Swaminarayan Bhagwan appointed his two adopted sons, Ayodhyaprasadji the son of his elder brother Rampratapji and Raghuvirji the son of his younger brother Ichcharamji, as the spiritual leaders or Acharyas of the Swaminarayan Sampraday, in Vadtal, on VS 1882 (1825 AD) Kartik Sud Prabodhini Ekadashi (ironically on the same day Bhagwan Swaminarayan was given the Acharya-pad by Ramanand Swami). The Acharyas are the sole representatives of Bhagwan Swaminarayan and have the responsibility of managing the entire Swaminarayan movement (Shikshapatri Slokh 3).

In establishing the dual Acharyaship in the Swaminarayan Sampraday, Swaminarayan Bhagwan divided the followers geographically into two, for ease of administration. Bhagwan Swaminarayan divided India into two divisions. Bhagwan Swaminarayan handed the Dakshin Desh – Shree LakshmiNarayan Dev Desh to Raghuvirji and Uttar Desh – Shree NarNarayan Dev Desh to Ayodhyaprasadji. The LakshmiNarayan Dev Desh based in Vadtal and the NarNarayan Dev Desh is based in Amdavad. Although known as Shree LakshmiNarayan Dev Gadi & Shree NarNarayan Dev Gadi, both are the Swaminarayan Gadis as they are the only authentic Gadis established by Bhagwan Swaminarayan himself.

The Acharyas are householders and their respective wives (Gadiwala) stand as the females’ Guru. As per the provisions of DESH VIBHAG LEKH the Gadi is passed on to the sons from their family, Dharmkul. The Acharyas of the Sampraday are more than mere administrative heads; they are the spiritual leaders and the Guru through whom the path to Moksha (liberation) is opened. Bhagwan Swaminarayan authorized only the Acharyas to install the images of God in His temples and to administer Saamaanya (basic) Diksha for all male satsangis and specific Maha Bhagwati Diksha for Sadhus, to his disciples in their respective jurisdictions. Nobody else is authorized to install idols or initiate Satsangis. Bhagwan Swaminarayan has promised to reside specifically in the images installed by himself and the Acharyas only. These Acharyas are authorized to initiate the male disciples only. Their respective wife, the 'Gadiwala', is the initiator of all female Satsangis and Sankhya Yogis in their respective jurisdiction, with the consent of their husband - the Acharya. Despite being householders, both the Acharya & Gadiwala live as per the direction and following tenets of sampraday.

All the above mentioned responsibilities have been prescribed in the Shikshapatri, Satsangijeevan and Desh Vibhag no Lekh, & according to these Shastras, no other individual other than the Dharmavanshi Acharyas are permitted to carry out the above duties. In the scripture Purushottam Prakash (Nishkulanand Kavya), the writer Nishkulanand Swami describes the instance when Bhagwan Swaminarayan established the Dharmavanshi Acharyas.

The constitution of the Swaminarayan Sampraday is laid out in Desh Vibhag no Lekh which describes in detail the functions of the Acharyas. "... it is my command to all Sadhus, Bhamcharis and all Satsangis, that for the purpose of your kalyaan (emancipation), you must obey and follow the two Acharyas of Dharmavansh, and obey their commands by thought, action and speech. If this is compromised and whoever turns elsewhere (rejecting the Acharyas) will find that they will never find Sukh (happiness) in this world or the worlds beyond and will experience immense distress" (Desh Vibhag no Lekh). Further more, in one of the most authoritative scriptures, the Vachanamrut, Bhagwan Swaminarayan states one of the pre-requisites for attaining Akshardham. "... The devotee who is aashrit of Dharmakul (he who has received initiation from Dharmavanshi Acharya and remains loyal to the Acharya) gets a divine Bhram-state body by God's wish..." (Vachanamrut, Gadhada Pratham Chapter 1). So it is seen as imperative to be a humble loyal follower of the Dharmavanshi Acharya once receiving the Diksha (guru mantra) in order to be qualified to achieve a Bhram form.

The rules of managing the Sampraday are enshrined in a document which Swaminarayan Bhagwan dictated and got written by Shukanand Swami – it is called Desh Vibhag Lekh. It lays out the boundary of demarcation between the two administrative zones. The protocol required between the Acharyas is documented here. The procedures for appointing future Acharyas are also laid down in Desh Vibhag Lekh.

As per the provision of Desh Vibhag Lekh, only the person who is in the lineage of Dharmakul, and has the capacity and quality to follow the principles, philosophy of the sampraday established by Bhagwan Swaminarayan in following, preaching and protecting can become the Acharya. Thus, the eligibility for becoming a Acharya is established and documented by Bhagwan Swaminarayan himself and is accepted by both the Acharyas by endorsing the copies. It is further provided that no one -Acharya, Sadhu, Parshad, Satsangis, Sankhyayogis or anybody-is authorized to make any alteration, correction or eliminitations and any kind of changes in the provisions of these documents in anyway-executing, propogating, illegal publicizing. Thus this Desh Vibhag Lekh is a will of Bhagwan Swaminarayan therefore no one has the authority to alter it or make any kind of changes. In these times of legal challenges upon the Sampraday, Desh Vibhag Lekh has proved to be the basis upon which most judicial rulings are made.

 

H. H. ACHARYA SHREE RAGHUVIRJI MAHARAJ Svt. 1968-1919 Shree Raghuvirji maharaj, the son of Ichharamjibhai, (brother of Bhagawan Shree Swaminarayan) was born in the village 'Ambaliya' situated in 'Kaushal desh' in the V.S. 1868. Right from his childhood, he was inclined to do something, which was beneficial to others. Bhagawan Swaminarayan appointed him as the Acharya of Shree Laxminarayan dev Gadi of Vadtal desh, in the v.s. 1882, which covers the area of jurisdiction in the southern part of the country. He had installed the idols of Shree Harikrishna Maharaj in Dholera, Junagadh, & Gadhada and had built many temples at different places during his period like Bombay, Bharuch, Surat etc. He himself had prepared loaves (Rotla) for a sick saint one late night. Such was his serviceful kind nature. Shreeji Maharaj was highly pleased by this get. He had no ego of his position. He liked to be in the holy company of the saints and had high respect and regards for the saints. Occasionally he was going to Junagadh to hear the inspiring discourses of A.M. Sadguru Shree Gunatitanand Swami. He had encouraged the publication of religious scriptures. Shikshapatribhashyam is a specimen of his, showing his profound knowledge in Sanskrit and scriptures. He left this world on the second day of the bright fortnight of the month of 'Maha' in the V.S.. 1919, living a short, simple but highly pious and inspiring life of 51 years. The holy fellowship cannot forget Shree Raghuvirji Maharaj who was the ideal first Acharaya of Vadatal region for 37 years.   H. H. ACHARYA SHREE BHAGVATPRASADJI MAHARAJ Svt. 1894-1935   H. H. ACHARYA SHREE ANANDPRASADJI MAHARAJ Svt. 1962-2030   H. H. ACHARYA SHREE NARENDRAPRASADJI MAHARAJ Svt. 1986-2042   H. H. 1008 ACHARYA SHREE AJENDRAPRASADJI MAHARAJ Svt. 2005-Present   H.H. 108 SHREE LALJI SHREE NRIGENDRAPRASADJI MAHARAJ Svt. 2030 - Present

Acharya Shree Raghuvirji Maharaj

Shree Raghuvirji maharaj, the son of Ichharamjibhai, (brother of Bhagawan Shree Swaminarayan) was born in the village 'Ambaliya' situated in 'Kaushal desh' in the V.S. 1868. Right from his childhood, he was inclined to do something, which was beneficial to others. Bhagawan Swaminarayan appointed him as the Acharya of Shree Laxminarayan dev Gadi of Vadtal desh, in the v.s. 1882, which covers the area of jurisdiction in the southern part of the country. He had installed the idols of Shree Harikrishna Maharaj in Dholera, Junagadh, & Gadhada and had built many temples at different places during his period like Bombay, Bharuch, Surat etc. He himself had prepared loaves (Rotla) for a sick saint one late night. Such was his serviceful kind nature. Shreeji Maharaj was highly pleased by this get. He had no ego of his position. He liked to be in the holy company of the saints and had high respect and regards for the saints. Occasionally he was going to Junagadh to hear the inspiring discourses of A.M. Sadguru Shree Gunatitanand Swami. He had encouraged the publication of religious scriptures. Shikshapatribhashyam is a specimen of his, showing his profound knowledge in Sanskrit and scriptures. He left this world on the second day of the bright fortnight of the month of 'Maha' in the V.S.. 1919, living a short, simple but highly pious and inspiring life of 51 years. The holy fellowship cannot forget Shree Raghuvirji Maharaj who was the ideal first Acharaya of Vadatal region for 37 years.

Acharya Shree Raghuvirji Maharaj

Born: 25th May 1809 
Acharyaship: 10th November 1826 
Aksharnivaas (Death): 18th February 1868 
Acharyaship Period: 42 Years

Acharya Shree Laxmiprasadji Maharaj

Born: 15th August 1892 
Acharyaship: 27th September 1899 
Aksharnivaas (Death): 24th April 1909 
Acharyaship Period: 10 Years

Acharya Shree Bhagvatprasadji Maharaj

Born: 11th October 1838 
Acharyaship: 9th February 1863 
Aksharnivaas (Death): 12th August 1879
Acharyaship Period: 17 Years

Acharya Shree Anandprasadji Maharaj

Born: 22nd July 1906 
Acharyaship: 12th February 1931 
Aksharnivaas (Death): 8th July 1974 
Acharyaship Period: 28 Years

Acharya Shree Ajendraprasadji Maharaj

Born: 16th August 1949 
Acharyaship: N/A 
Aksharnivaas (Death): Present 
Acharyaship Period: N/A

Acharya Shree Narendraprasadji Maharaj

Born: 25th January 1930 
Acharyaship: 30th April 1959 
Aksharnivaas (Death): N/A 
Acharyaship Period: N/A

Laxmi Narayan Dev Gadi

Ghanshyam Maharaj in the Akshar Bhuvan at the LaxmiNarayan Dev Gadi headquarters

The Laxmi Narayan Dev Gadi  

लक्षिमिनारायन देव गदी 

 is one of the twogadis (thrones) that together form the Swaminarayan Sampraday. It is headquartered at the Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Vadtal and controls the Dakshin Vibhag.

The current Acharya of this gadi is styled Acharya Shree Rakeshprasadji Maharaj.