With the arrival of the month of Ashadh, the skies begin to thunder and rains sweep across the land, draping the world in a vibrant, lush greenery. For a devotee of Bhagwan, this season brings one thought to mind: the joy of offering a beautiful Hindola (swing) to the Lord.
One such divine moment took place in Jetalpur. Aasjibhai and the local devotees envisioned a grand Yagna coupled with a Hindola festival for Shreeji Maharaj. With noble intentions, preparations began in a sprawling orchard (Vadi), where the sturdy branches of an ancient banyan tree served as the frame for the swing.
The devotees crafted an exquisite Hindola, crowned with a shimmering golden Kalash and adorned with silken cushions and intricate decorations. Upon their heartfelt request, Bhagwan Shree Swaminarayan took His seat. As He sat, the devotees gently pulled the silken strings to set the swing in motion.
The devotion was so immense that the floral garlands brought by the Haribhaktas were countless. Since Maharaj could not wear them all at once, He began hanging the extra garlands upon His walking stick. As Anandanand Swami swung the Hindola, Somla Khachar and Sura Khachar stood nearby, waving the Chamar (feather fan) in seva. Surrounded by the sound of Kirtans and a shower of celestial flowers (Pushpa-vristi), the atmosphere became divine. To this day, these wonderful Hindola Darshans continue in our temples—a sight no devotee should ever miss.