Hinduism has been preserved by many streams and faiths. One of the purest forms is the Swaminarayan Faith. With its roots in the Vedas, a wealth of sublime knowledge and continuous nourishment by a succession of Enlightened Gurus, the Swaminarayan Faith has grown world-wide, without a hue of hypocrisy or any fever of fanaticism. Understanding it will help one understand the true nature and nobility of Hinduism and its relevance in our modern world today.
The central philosophy of the Swaminarayan Faith, is the worship of Akshar and Purushottam - Lord Swaminarayan along with His ideal devotee, Swami Gunatitanand. This supports the traditional Hindu belief of the dual worship of God and His ideal devotee - Krishna and Radha, Rama and Sita, Shiva and Parvati.
Hence, in every Swaminarayan Mandir, whether it a majestic marble Mandir, or a delicate " ghar " Mandir - family altar - the central murtis are of Akshar and Purushottam, surrounded by the images of the spiritual gurus, who are worshipped not as God but as the divine guides to God.
Daily, all the family members gather around the ghar Mandir, perform worship and rituals, offer food and say their prayers. This helps to keep the Swaminarayan Faith alive in every home and heart all over the world.
"True Religion is that which promotes love for one another"
