New Delhi, March 26 (H.S.): The consecration ceremony of the 108-foot-tall statue of Tapomurti Shri Neelkanth Varni began early Thursday morning at the Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple in New Delhi in the presence of BAPS spiritual head

Mahant Swami Maharaj and hundreds of saints and devotees. According to organisers, the main rituals commenced at 6 am as part of the Pran Pratistha ceremony, marking a significant spiritual event at the Akshardham complex. Over 300 sadhus and spiritual leaders from various countries, including the

United Kingdom, the United States, France, Australia and African nations, are participating in the ceremony.

Thousands of devotees from India and abroad have gathered to witness the occasion.

The 108-foot murti, made of panchdhatu (a sacred five-metal alloy primarily comprising bronze), is described by organisers as a unique statue depicting Neelkanth Varni standing on one foot, symbolising penance and spiritual discipline.

The statue has been installed on an eight-foot pedestal and was completed over about one year with the efforts of artisan sadhus, craftsmen and volunteers.

As part of the celebrations, religious rituals including the Shri Neelkanth Varni World Peace Mahayagna were organised a day earlier, during which prayers were offered for global peace and harmony.

Organisers said the ceremony also carries a message of peace and unity amid ongoing global conflicts, with special prayers offered for stability and harmony across regions affected by war.

Further religious programmes and devotional gatherings are scheduled to continue through the day.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Indrani Sarkar