Feature Story
The Largest display of religious statues T
By Sanjana Bhowmick
he record for holding the largest display of religious statues was set by Swami Gyanjivandasji of Kundaldham, Gujarat. 7070 unique idols of Bhagwan Swaminarayan were displayed in 27 circles and 15,000 diyas of pure ghee were offered to please God in the event ‘Anēka rūpē Swaminarayan - Swaminarayan in Several Styles’ on December 19, 2021, at Shree Swaminarayan Temple- Kundaldham, Gujarat.
1. Tell us something about your organisation? His Holiness Sadguru Shree Gyanjivandasji Swami (Kundaldham) is one of today’s most adored and revered spiritual teachers in Shree Swaminarayan Sampradaya (Sect). He has spent his last 40 years internalizing his spiritual
4
practice and sharing it with others. Swamiji is the present guru and the sole inspirer behind Swaminarayan Temples at Kundaldham and Karelibaug, Vadodara. Currently, at Kundaldham, there are more than 100 monks and numerous pious devotees dwelling. 2. What is the mission of your organisation? Swamiji’s mission is to spread knowledge of Shree Swaminarayan Bhagwan among His followers. To fulfill His mission, Swamiji has delivered copious discourses on various scriptures of the Swaminarayan sect.
India Book of Records | February 2022
He has published many books, 3D Animations, build temples, social activities, Gir Cow Gaushala, Children and Youth encouragement programs, Hindu festivals and celebrations. 3. How many liters of ghee were used? Every year 1100 to 2500 litres of ghee is sanctified for God and offered to devotees.
4. How much time did it take to prepare for the record? Usually, it takes from 1 to 5 working days.
5. What inspired you to make this record? Lord Swaminarayan and His teachings. 6. What is the next record you are trying to achieve? Some of the records we plan to attempt are the largest Hindu Smriti, the largest Garba/Raas, and world-class 3D animation. 7. How did you collect so many idols? I have had a passion for collecting idols since childhood and for many years I have been doing it. 8. How many people were involved in making the preparations? 100 to 150 saints and devotees.
