Bhagwat attends 200 year celebrations of Jetalpur Swaminarayan Temple

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, on Thursday attended the bicentennial celebrations marking 200 years of the historic Jetalpur Swaminarayan Temple, participating in religious rituals and interacting with saints and devotees during the grand Patotsav commemorating the temple’s spiritual legacy.Bhagwat performed worship according to scriptural rituals at the temple and later held a religious dialogue with senior saints of the Swaminarayan Sampradaya and members of the religious community. The presence of the RSS chief at the Patotsav marking the temple’s 200th anniversary infused fresh enthusiasm among devotees who had gathered in large numbers for the celebrations.

#WATCH | Ahmedabad, Gujarat: RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat attends the 200th anniversary of the Swaminarayan Temple in Jetalpur. pic.twitter.com/9jILnYbSjL

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Addressing the gathering, Bhagwat said that India would eventually have to shoulder the responsibility of guiding the world amid growing global challenges.“In today’s circumstances, the responsibility of showing the path to the entire world will come to India. We cannot avoid this; sooner or later we will have to take it up. The world does not have answers to many of its problems, and we will have to provide them,” he said.Emphasising the role of spirituality and values in society, Bhagwat said religion unites people and helps society move forward collectively. According to him, religion elevates individuals and strengthens society when it is reflected in everyday conduct.He also urged people to remain resilient in the face of adversity. “You can fight against all situations. Situations will come and go, but it is important to remain physically and mentally healthy. If you are healthy, you will be able to face every challenge,” he said.Highlighting the importance of discipline and thoughtful practice, Bhagwat said that while people often know what is right, consistent effort is required to translate those ideals into action. “No one is devoid of qualities. Every individual has strengths. Paths may be different, but they ultimately lead to the same destination,” he remarked.Referring to social initiatives in Gujarat, he praised the state’s efforts in de-addiction and service activities, describing them as commendable examples of social service. He also emphasised the importance of maintaining social harmony and unity in society.
Observers noted that Bhagwat’s visit carried significance beyond the religious sphere. The visit is being viewed as socially important as well, seen as part of efforts to strengthen coordination between the large following of the Swaminarayan sect and the RSS. In historically significant centres such as Vadtal Swaminarayan Temple and Jetalpur, his presence symbolised a confluence of nationalism and spirituality, drawing attention to the broader social influence of the Swaminarayan tradition.The bicentennial celebration of the Jetalpur Swaminarayan Temple drew saints, devotees and community leaders from across Gujarat and other parts of the country, marking a significant milestone in the history of the temple and the Swaminarayan faith. Bhagwat’s participation in the Patotsav added further prominence to the occasion, organisers said.

(State Correspondent)