Chicago, IL – June 22, 2025 | The Shreeji Dwar Haveli in Addison, Illinois, resonated with divine fervor and community pride as it marked its 17th Patotsav (temple anniversary celebration) on June 22. With the attendance of hundreds of Vaishnavs from across the greater Chicago area and beyond, the day served as a reaffirmation of the Haveli’s enduring role as a spiritual, cultural, and communal nucleus.
At the heart of the celebration was the esteemed Acharya Goswami 108 Shree Madhusudan Lalji Mahoday, affectionately known as Shree Tilak Bawa, who traveled from Ahmedabad, India in Yugal Swaroop (divine couple form) to grace the occasion. His presence was made possible by an invitation extended by Dr. Umangbhai Patel, Chairman of Shreeji Dwar Haveli, on behalf of the community — a gesture that underlined both reverence and spiritual continuity.
The day commenced with a vibrant Shobhayatra, a sacred procession through the temple grounds filled with devotional singing, traditional dances, and rhythmic drumbeats. Devotees joyfully followed the image of Shreeji, expressing their reverence in a public celebration of faith that set a spiritually uplifting tone for the day.
Festivities included a Flower Mandal Manorath (ceremonial floral offering), the auspicious Tilak ceremony, and the grand Rajbhog Aarti, all performed by Shree Tilak Bawa. Each ritual deepened the collective experience of devotion. The temple courtyard soon turned into a scene of colorful vibrancy, as devotees of all ages joined in Raas-Garba, transforming the space into a joyful celebration of heritage and spirituality.
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The day’s spiritual centerpiece was Shree Tilak Bawa’s Vachanamrut, a profound discourse delivered to a packed outdoor tent audience. With eloquence and clarity, he spoke on the significance of Patotsav and the timeless principles of Vivek (spiritual discernment), Dhairya (patience), and Ashray (divine refuge). His words were received with great admiration and deep introspection by attendees, many of whom traveled long distances to be present.
Adding another layer of inspiration were the youth-led cultural offerings. Children from the VYOE and the Tavasmi group recited the sacred Yamunashtak, presented the five foundational tenets of Pushtimarg, and delivered an artistic dramatization of the life and teachings of Shree Vallabhacharyaji, founder of the Pushtimarg tradition. These young voices stood as a symbol of the community’s spiritual future. Shree Tilak Bawa warmly commended their efforts and encouraged sustained youth engagement in devotional practices.
Behind the scenes, the success of the 17th Patotsav was the result of tireless collaboration among many. The Trustees, Management Committee, Flower Mandal Committee, Kirtankars, Parking and Food Committees, Manorathis, dedicated volunteers, and families of the temple’s young Bal Gopals all played vital roles in ensuring a seamless and spiritually enriching celebration. Their collective seva (selfless service) was acknowledged personally by Shree Tilak Bawa, who offered heartfelt gratitude and blessings to each contributor.
The celebration concluded with Shayan Aarti and the serving of Mahaprasad (sacred meal), bringing the day to a serene close marked by unity, contentment, and spiritual fulfillment.
As the Shreeji Dwar Haveli completes seventeen years of serving as a beacon of Vaishnav faith, the 17th Patotsav stands out not just as a milestone, but as a moving example of community devotion, intergenerational continuity, and the enduring relevance of Sanatan Dharma. Under the spiritual leadership of Shree Tilak Bawa and the visionary guidance of Dr. Umangbhai Patel, this celebration served as both a look back at tradition and a forward step into a spiritually connected future.