Following months of meticulous planning and with the environs beautifully decorated with colourful flags, banners, and dazzling lights, the joyous three-day grand celebrations to mark Pujya Tai Ma’s 89th birthday commenced. The celebrations were graced with the presence of national and international members of the Veerayatan family ranging from London, Dubai, Kenya, the USA, Vardhaman Pratishthan (Pune), Rajkot, Jamnagar, Ahmedabad, Agra, Chennai, Mumbai, Kolkata, Ghodnadi, Gandhidham, Bihar, and many other places. Everyone was mesmerised by the exceptional arrangements and warm hospitality extended to them.
The celebrations started with a soulful musical programme presented by Mumbai’s renowned musical group ‘Tanariri’ at the Adani Auditorium. Priyanka Jain and Bhavesh Dave created a devotional atmosphere with their mesmerizing bhajans, whilst Sadhvi Shri Sanghamitraji’s melodious bhajans deeply moved the audience and made everyone feel they had ascended to heaven. The evening of bhakti was truly uplifting for all present.
The evening before Pujya Tai Ma’s birthday there took place an enchanting and vibrant cultural programme delivered by the school and college students studying at Veerayatan Kutch, who captivated the audience with their outstanding performances! The sincere emotions of the students found expression through their mesmerising songs and dances. The female students of the Pharmacy College presented a heart-touching dance performance, whilst the little children performed a delightful dance in which they humbly said "You are our world, Tai Ma; From our hearts, we say Happy Birthday to you..." The entire gathering joined together in singing "Happy Birthday, Tai Ma.", with an underlying shared heartfelt wish—that our beloved, revered Pujya Tai Ma lives a long life and that her blessings always shower upon us. The little children expressed their joy with such skill and enthusiasm that it inspired everyone in the hall, which was full of palpable emotion.
A parent from Veerayatan Vidyapeeth, Rudrani also expressed deep gratitude for revered Pujya Tai Ma with such sincerity that it moved everyone emotionally. It is noteworthy that, inspired by Pujya Tai Ma, Veerayatan Rudrani has been providing free education to 400 children for the past 23 years.
Sadhvi Shri Shilapiji, along with the composers, worked tirelessly to create the melodious compositions and choreographer Truptiben, along with the students, teachers, and coordinators, were congratulated for the programme's success. Special recognition was given to Sadhvi Shri Sumedhaji, who meticulously managed the students' rehearsal schedules, dance practice, refreshments, and transportation, ensuring they reached home safely despite late hours.
On 26th January the celebrations continued with Pujya Tai Ma arriving at the Samavosaran site for the flag-hoisting ceremony, followed by the national anthem, expressing deep respect for the nation. The programme commenced with Sadhvi Shri Sanghamitraji reciting the Rishi Mandal Stotra and a wave of spiritual energy swept through the audience, who then all participated in the Samavosaran foundation-laying ritual. The sacred chants filled the air, creating an atmosphere of divine bliss.
After this auspicious ceremony, the assembly proceeded to the main hall, where a grand celebration took place with distinguished guests honouring Pujya Tai Ma by adorning her with a shawl and conveying their heartfelt birthday wishes. A special tribute was also presented by the Vardhaman Pratishthan Sangh, Pune, who expressed their devotion by offering a shawl, a prestigious honorary certificate, and a symbolic idol of Pujya Tai Ma.
Sadhvi Shri Shilapiji, in her powerful speech, enlightened the audience about Veerayatan’s mission and Pujya Tai Ma’s visionary contributions. Several significant financial contributions were announced in support of Veerayatan’s incredible work.
Then came the most awaited moment—Pujya Tai Ma’s spiritual discourse. She blessed everyone with her words of wisdom, emphasizing the principle of ‘Maitri’ (universal friendship) as taught by Tirthankar Mahavir. She highlighted that education is the only true path to world peace. Expressing deep gratitude for the success of the event, she blessed everyone and encouraged them to continue their noble efforts in the future.
Throughout the entire celebration, attendees enjoyed a variety of delicious meals, which was made possible through the generous contribution of Shri Sundar Ji Bhai of Kutch’s Jagdu Shah family.
Flawless… Spectacular… Fabulous…Words fell short—only the eyes
spoke, reflecting the witnessed magnificence; the lips smiled in sheer
delight, and the hands remained folded in gratitude. With the divine,
transcendental touch of Pujya Tai Ma still resonating in their hearts
and the unforgettable memories of this grand festival deeply
cherished, devotees bid farewell, carrying with them a pledge to
contribute even more to the noble initiatives of Veerayatan as they
returned to their respective destinations.
