Shri Hari Jayanti is an important festival for the followers of Lord Swaminarayan, who is believed to be an incarnation of
Lord Vishnu. It marks the birth of this particular manifestation of the deity.
On this day a nirjala (waterless) fast is observed by the devotees. The day is spent listening to the stories of the lord, reading scriptures and singing devotional songs. The temples dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan experience a heavy influx of devotees. Special rituals and programs are held at the temples. Speeches, devotional songs and folk dramas form the major part of the celebrations. The festivities are accompanied by preaching by the religious leaders.
