September 3-4, 2005
Chino Hills, CA
Devotees gathered
at the future site of the BAPS Shree Swaminarayan Mandir and
Cultural Center in Chino Hills to celebrate the auspicious
groundbreaking ceremony. Saints and devotees in accordance
with ancient traditions performed the highly anticipated groundbreaking
ceremony, or khaat vidhi, on the morning of Sunday, September
4, 2005. The historic ceremony began with the mahapuja ceremony
amidst the chanting of vedic shlokas. Thereafter, each yajman
had the unique opportunity to participate in the auspicious
stone-laying ceremony.
In addition,
the Mayor of Chino Hills and council members participated
in the western tradition of the ceremony by breaking ground
with the symbolic use of shovels. Param Pujya Pramukh Swami
Maharaj offered his divine blessings over the telephone for
the successful completion of the cultural center. P. Yagnavallabh
Swami delivered an enlightening speech on the benefits of
the new mandir and cultural center for preserving spirituality
in our modern day society.
The youth wing,
fully dressed in vibrant costumes, performed a traditional
folk dance that energized all on this joyous occasion. Guided
tours were provided for visitors to view the actual sites
of the buildings to be built. A colorful exhibition allowed
visitors and guests to experience a glimpse of India, Hindu
culture, and traditions through translite screens, dioramas,
plasma screens, and other multimedia presentations.
Amongst the city
officials were numerous other supporters and well-wishers
including Nabih Youssef, a world renowned structural engineer;
Judge Jim Gray, Orange County Superior Court Judge; and Vyomesh
Joshi, Executive Vice President of Hewlett-Packard and Director
of Yahoo.
The two-day festivities
began on Saturday, September 3rd, with a free medical camp
in which numerous health care professionals provided free
consultation and screenings to community members.
Saturdays' evening
program featured a kirtan aradhana, where devotional hymns
were accompanied by classical Indian instruments such as the
sitar, tabla, and harmonium. The ceremony concluded with saints
conducting a special prayer for victims of Hurricane Katrina.
Photo
gallery
