EAST STROUDSBURG, Pa. (Diya TV) — The Shrimad Rajchandra Spiritual Center in the U.S. celebrated the 60th birth anniversary of its founder, Pujya Gurudevshri Rakeshji, with its annual Festival of Bliss. The three-day event, held September 26–28, welcomed devotees and spiritual seekers from around the world for a weekend of devotion, learning, and community service.
The festival opened with heartfelt birthday tributes and a musical dedication by devotees. Attendees then joined a lakeside veneration and listened to a discourse by Rakeshji. He emphasized the difference between human birth and human life. “True life is experienced when human existence transforms into a Festival of Bliss,” he said. He encouraged attendees to focus on what is meaningful and to remain spiritually aware even amid daily challenges.
The Festival of Bliss blended spiritual learning with devotion. Acclaimed musician Sachin Sanghvi performed a devotional concert, creating an atmosphere of reflection and inspiration. Rakeshji also delivered several transformative talks, guiding attendees toward inner peace and personal growth.
“The festival offers seekers a chance to understand themselves better,” Rakeshji explained. “It reminds us that spiritual awareness helps us live fully, with joy and compassion.”
A highlight of the festival was a major service project. Volunteers hand-packed over 100,000 meals to help communities worldwide struggling with hunger and malnutrition. This initiative reflected the center’s commitment to combining spirituality with selfless service.
On September 27, Shrimad Rajchandra Love & Care USA partnered with St. Luke’s University Health Network to host the Poconos Health and Wellness Fest. More than 250 residents received free health screenings, wellness workshops, and consultations with licensed medical professionals. The event addressed pressing healthcare access needs in the Pocono Mountains region and emphasized holistic well-being.
The festival concluded with a moving diksha ceremony. During the event, Rakeshji initiated three seekers into Atmarpit Diksha. This spiritual rite inspired others to deepen their commitment to personal growth and service.
The Festival of Bliss successfully combined devotion, service, and wellness. Attendees not only celebrated a milestone in Rakeshji’s life but also experienced the center’s broader mission: integrating spirituality and compassion into everyday living.
Expressions of gratitude and acts of service underscored the festival’s core message: spiritual growth is inseparable from serving others. Attendees left with renewed purpose, a deeper understanding of self, and a desire to contribute positively to their communities.
The Shrimad Rajchandra Spiritual Center continues to be a beacon for spiritual seekers in the U.S. Its programs aim to foster mindfulness, wellness, and service. By celebrating life, devotion, and compassion, the center reinforces its vision of creating a harmonious and enlightened community.
