Deepavali at Sandipani

The first Deepavali after the Praan Pratishtha of the deities in Shri Hari Mandir in February 2006 was celebrated in the proximity of Shri Hari and in the presence of Pujya Bhaishri. This was the first time when Pujya Bhaishri was present in Sandipani Vidyaniketan, Porbandar on the occasion of Deepavali.

On the 21st of Octber, 2006 the Shri Hari Mandir was lit up in wonderful lighting, having been decorated with lamps of variegated colours. In the evening of 22nd October 600 por children from the vicinity fromf local slums were invited at Sandipani. Pujya Bhaishri addressed the devotees present and the children. Note-pens and new clothes were distributed to the poor children. Pujya Bhaishri and the Collector personally gave these gifts to the children. Thereafter Annakoot was ritualistically offered to Shri Hari in the temple. Many saints and important personalities attended the evening Aarati.

At night, children wearing their new clothes enjoyed the fire-works of crackers in the exciting company of Pujya Bhaishri. Thereafter all children were taken to their homes in the Sandipani bus.

Thus the festival of Deepavali was celebrated with great fanfare in the presence of Shri Hari and Pujya Bhaishri and was a memorable event.