More than 2 000 visitors from across South Africa gathered in North Riding for a significant cultural and spiritual milestone, as a 42-foot statue was ceremonially installed at the BAPS Hindu Mandir and Cultural Complex.

According to BAPS South Africa spokesperson Hemang Desai, the installation took place in line with Hindu tradition and was attended by visiting monks from India, including senior monk Pujya Dr Swami, whose full name is Swayamprakash Das.

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Desai explained that the statue represents Neelkanth, the childhood form of Bhagawan Swaminarayan, who is the central deity of the BAPS organisation. He said the image reflects a formative period in Swaminarayan’s life, when he left home at a young age and undertook a spiritual journey through India.

“As a youth, he performed severe austerities in the Himalayas for the welfare of mankind and all living beings,” said Desai. “One of the most powerful moments of this journey was when he stood on one foot for approximately four months in Muktinath, in the Himalayas.”

The statue was installed to commemorate that act and the compassion it symbolises. Desai said the image stands as a blessing for South Africa and reflects values such as determination, dialogue, compassion and selflessness.

Despite weather forecasts predicting rain, the ceremony went ahead as planned. Desai noted that although the morning was rainy and uncertain, conditions improved during the event.

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“With full cloud cover, the weather became very pleasant and allowed everyone to enjoy the ceremony comfortably,” he said.

“We commend all visitors who travelled from all corners of the country, many by flight, despite the predictions. No one backed out, and the event was a resounding success.”

Desai invited residents of Randburg, Johannesburg and the wider country to visit the site and experience the precinct for themselves. He said the area features landscaped gardens, fountains, artistic statuettes and a vegetarian restaurant.

@caxtonjoburgnorth Visiting monks from India led traditional rites during the statue installation at the BAPS Hindu Mandir and Cultural Complex.Video: Nkazimulo Ncube #caxtonlocalmedia #News #Localnews #SA #Fyp #Randburg #johannesburg ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North

“This is a place for reflection, tranquillity and refreshment, regardless of religious or cultural background,” he said. “Anyone can enjoy the ambience and reflect on what the image of Neelkanth may mean to them personally.”

He added that the monument has become a permanent part of the Johannesburg landscape and encouraged South Africans to embrace the space as their own.

“We invite all Johannesburgers and all South Africans to own this complex, enjoy its beauty and make the most of its peaceful surroundings,” said Desai.

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