Ahmedabad, India – Page 2

Environmental Conservation Seminar

11 Jan. 2023, Wednesday, Ahmedabad, India

On 11 January 2023, the BAPS Women’s Wing organised a seminar at the Women’s Empowerment Hall on the topic of ‘Save Electricity and Water and Maintain Cleanliness’ attended by thousands.

Ms. Meena Kaviya, President of the Confederation of Women Entrepreneurs (Gujarat chapter) and Director of Ayma Creations Pvt. Ltd., was invited as the guest speaker to address the audience. She said, “To offer devotion to God means to serve him, which goes beyond just singing devotional songs. This is exemplified by BAPS volunteers. The positivity, welcoming smiles and happiness radiating on all the volunteers’ faces clearly demonstrates that Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s Centenary Celebration is a celebration of humanity.”

Explaining the importance of water and electricity conservation and maintaining cleanliness, she said, “Our concept of Dharma is different from the western concept of religion. Dharma means being bound to perform a set of duties for a greater good. Environmental conservation is a big part of our Dharma. We have been taught that taking care of nature is a way of serving God.”

Highlighting the numerous BAPS initiatives to nurture and preserve the environment, she shared, “In the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, the volunteers’ service for and strong emotional attachment to the environment are wonderful. I am particularly touched by BAPS’s efforts to cultivate such values in their children because they will grow into adults who will care for nature.”

She emphasised how Vedic traditions have always taught us the ways to preserve environmental resources, “Since Vedic times, we have been taught to value water, trees, plants, etc. To offer reverence and perform puja means to take care of natural resources and not abuse them. Methods like rainwater harvesting and desilting water bodies are effective steps that our ancestors took to preserve the environment. Even scriptures such as the Ramayan give in-depth insights on how to keep the Saryu River clean, which we should emulate. We must value the wisdom our own culture.”

She further continued that “We need to save water for the upcoming generations. Mother Earth is making a huge sacrifice by providing coal for electricity generation that makes our lives comfortable, so we must conserve electricity. Simple steps like wearing clothes appropriate to the weather and thereby reducing the need for heaters, turning off devices when not in use, using the eco-friendly mode on electronic appliances, etc., can help us in saving energy. If natural resources are exhausted, our upcoming generations will not be able to survive. We believe in the concept of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, and so we should keep ourselves, our surroundings, our country and the Earth clean. The Arthshastra very clearly defined punishment for people who flouted the rules of cleanliness. The revival of such rich old traditions would make the preservation of the environment easy. Hence, we should use our traditional values and lead a more eco-friendly life.”

On this occasion, dignitaries such as Ms. Dhyani Dave, Women International Chess Master and Founder of Dhyan Chess Academy, Ahmedabad; Dr. Hina Shah, Founder and Director, ICECD; Ms. Tejal Amin, Chairperson, Navrachana Education Society; Ms. Rupal Patel, President of Anand Nagarpalika; Ms. Pooja Patel, Professional Yoga Trainer, Kadi; Ms. Vibhavari Dave, Former MLA-Bhavnagar; Ms. Deevyata Pandya, National Level Medalist in Skating, Vadodara were felicitated by the BAPS Women’s wing volunteers.

Ms. Dhyani Dave, Women International Chess Master and Founder of Dhyan Chess Academy, Ahmedabad, narrated her life’s journey and said, “When I was just 6 years old, my mother had an intuition that I had the potential to become a brilliant chess player. She believed in my abilities even before I was aware of them. Since then, I have played chess on state, national and international levels.”

Recounting how she became the Gujarat State Champion, she said, “In contrast to the 200 contestants in the boys’ tournament, there were only 5 or 6 girls competing in the girls’ tournament. I remember thinking I was lucky to have fewer competitors, but as I began playing in national and international tournaments, it dawned on me that chess is a male-dominated sport. To encourage girls to join chess, I started the Dhyan Chess Academy, which offers free chess classes to girls. Many girls graduating from this Academy have gone on to win national and international medals and have made India proud.”

Stressing on the importance of women’s empowerment and appreciating the role played by BAPS, she said, “Women need two things to be truly empowered, the right education and faith in their own abilities. From a young age, I believe parents should guide their children by teaching them virtues and giving them access to good education as well as opportunities that will help them grow in different fields like chess, tabla, and art, to name a few. I saw this very culture in action when I was invited to speak at the BAPS Swaminarayan Vidyamandir, Randesan (Secondary Girls Residential School). Schools like these, which are not only imparting knowledge but also focusing on the all-round development of their students, are the need of the hour. If we empower girls in this manner from a young age, one day a time will come when we won’t need to talk about women’s empowerment as we will already be empowered and it will be a way of life.”

Dr. Hina Shah, Founder and Director of the International Centre for Entrepreneurship and Career Development (ICECD), emphasised “Pramukh Swami Maharaj devoted his whole life to the service of society. He guided countless people onto the path of spirituality. He has empowered innumerable women of all ages through various initiatives like girls’ schools, Yuvati Talim Kendras (Young Women’s Development Centres) and Women’s Wings. It is important to recognize that a society is self-sufficient only when a woman is empowered. When women are empowered, families will be empowered, and these families will go on to empower societies. Pramukh Swami Maharaj has given us a platform to empower ourselves and every woman around us.”

Ms. Tejal Amin, Chairperson of Navrachana Education Society, began by saying, “Pramukh Swami Maharaj lived a life of service and discipline. We need to instil these values in our children.”

She further highlighted, “Women need to drive the movement of women’s empowerment by empowering themselves, their neighbours and their daughters. Let all of us women pledge to uplift all the women we come in contact with.”

Mrs. Amin concluded by saying, “I would like to extend my congratulations to the entire BAPS team for organising and bringing to life this grand Pramukh Swami Maharaj Centenary Celebrations. The ethos of BAPS and Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s message of humility, love and serving humanity is clearly evident in the ‘seva’ being done by all the volunteers present here in this Nagar. I am taking inspiration from this visit to dedicate my life to social causes that extend beyond just my family. May BAPS continue to spread love and service to all for a better future of our world.”

Ms. Rupal Patel, President of Anand Nagarpalika said, “I am blessed and honoured to be invited to this magnificent Nagar. This service will generously bless the lives of all the volunteers with abundant joy, health, and peace.”

Ms. Pooja Patel, Professional Yoga Trainer, Kadi, said, “I am experiencing immense happiness and can feel the positive vibrations being spread by this Nagar. I feel honoured to be invited to this event which is spreading and promoting the vital message of women’s empowerment.”

Ms. Vibhavari Dave, Former MLA-Bhavnagar, shared, “Through the very beautiful and powerful management in Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar’s Women’s Empowerment Hall, women’s skills and abilities are sharpened and given the right platform. This helps in transforming their lives. It especially inculcates values, culture, unity and fraternity in people. I thank you for organising such an event in Gujarat.”

Pramukh Swami Maharaj Shatabdi Mahotsav: Bhagwati Diksha Samaroh

10 Jan. 2023, Tuesday, Ahmedabad, India

His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj initiated 58 BAPS youths into the monastic order in a grand initiation ceremony at Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar in Ahmedabad before an audience of tens of thousands on the morning of 10 January 2023.

The 58 highly educated and devoted youths were ordained as swamis, receiving bhagwati diksha (saffron robes), and embarked on their lifelong path of worldly renunciation, self-realization and service to God and society. Together with the ordination of 46 youths as parshads four days ago, this marks a total of 104 youths from around India and the world receiving ordination from Mahant Swami Maharaj on the occasion of Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s Centenary Celebrations in Ahmedabad. The date held extra historical significance as it was exactly 83 years ago today that Pramukh Swami Maharaj himself was ordained by his guru, Shastriji Maharaj, the founder of BAPS, in Gondal.

Of the 58 youths initiated today, there were 6 postgraduates, 30 engineers, 19 graduates in other fields, two MBAs and an architect. These youths left the comforts of home and promising careers to eagerly walk on the path of renunciation. The youths have come from around India and the world, including 5 from America, 7 from Maharashtra, and 46 from Gujarat.

The ceremony began at 8 am with the preliminary initiation rituals performed by senior BAPS swamis. Following the rituals, senior BAPS swamis addressed the assembly. Then Mahant Swami Maharaj completed the initiation rituals and blessed each new initiate with a new name.

Senior BAPS swami and mahant of Akshardham Gandhinagar, Anandswarupdas Swami, said, “Akshar and Purushottam are transcendent of maya and eternally divine. When they manifest on Earth, everyone recognises they are devoid of vices and replete with divine virtues. But even beyond that, they exude a divine aura that touches everyone around them. Yesterday, the head of ISKCON Bengaluru described his divine experience during his first meeting with Pramukh Swami Maharaj. Former President Abdul Kalam described in his book Transcendence how in his first meeting with Pramukh Swami Maharaj he felt that divinity was radiating from him.

“Many youths have experienced this and been inspired to become swamis. Yagnavallabh Swami and Sarvamangal Swami had such experiences. Many experience such ineffable peace and bliss in his presence that the joys of this world pale into insignificance and devotion to God and guru become the sole purpose of their life. Dutch citizen Han Kop experienced this in 1972, and Pramukh Swami Maharaj advised him to return to stay with him once every year, which he did for over 40 years.

“Inspired by Pramukh Swami Maharaj and Mahant Swami Maharaj’s divinity, the type of youths who renounce the comforts of worldly life to become swamis is also remarkable. Of the 1159 swamis in BAPS, there are 10 doctors, 12 MBAs, over 70 with master’s degrees, over 200 engineers, and over 700 graduates. 55 are British citizens, 70 are American citizens, 125 were the only son and 35 were the only child of their parents, such is their and their family’s sacrifice. Mahant Swami Maharaj has initiated 240 individuals who have renounced the ambitions of youth and dedicated their lives to their spiritual progress and service to God and society.

Thereafter, Senior BAPS swami Swayamprakashdas Swami (Doctor Swami) said, “Bhagwan Swaminarayan has said, ‘There is no deed greater than devotion to God.’ For this, one must learn worldly sacrifice, which is not only for swamis, but for all. For instance, Shastriji Maharaj had accepted Bhagatji Maharaj as his Guru because Bhagatji Maharaj’s devotion towards God was complete with the sacrifice of worldly desires. From the time of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, many youths in the Swaminarayan Sampradaya have forsaken many luxuries and chosen the path of spirituality and devotion.

“Seeing the miseries of the world, even Prince Siddhartha was inspired to renounce his family and kingdom to seek the cessation of worldly misery, ultimately becoming Gautam Buddha. We all observe countless examples of the impermanence of human life. We need not fear this, but we must understand it and act accordingly. If we keep the constant thought that today is my last day on Earth, we would renounce the unimportant things in our life and focus on what will bring about the liberation of our soul.

“A kirtan says, ‘The drumbeats of Death resound upon your head’, but though everyone sings this, are we hearing it? Understanding the rarity of this human birth, each of us must think about how much time we have left in this world and resolve not to waste our life in addictions, useless media, or frivolities. Like the child-devotee Dhruv, we must cultivate an unwavering resolution to attain God and remove everything from our life that will not help us to attain that. One of the fundamental purposes of celebrating this ‘Festival of Inspirations’ is to be able to practice this knowledge in our day to day lives.”

Finally, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj said, “All these newly ordained youths are great. It is very difficult to dissociate from the world and renounce everything. Many talk of it but cannot put it into action. However, these youths have. I express my heartfelt thanks to their parents as well because one’s child is like one’s own heart, which they have offered joyously to God.

“The newly initiated swamis have now joined the many already here. While your life will be spent in service and offering devotion, all should be extremely firm in their religious observances. Through this you will be protected. You can do this because you are brave beyond measure. Remain steadfast in all your vows and understanding.”

Several new initiates and their family members also shared some of their experiences.

Jitendriyadas Swami, originally from New York who studied construction management and architecture, said, “The other-worldly love and peace that I can experience from Mahant Swami Maharaj is priceless; it cannot be purchased by any amount of money, and so renouncing for him has not been difficult. And now that I am serving God, I have no worries about my family, as they will be well looked after by God himself.”

Keshavchintandas Swami, a graduate in business management systems from Philadelphia, said, “There are thousands of people in the world who have degrees like mine. But the opportunity to serve a guru like Mahant Swami Maharaj is indeed rare and invaluable. And to be ordained at the centenary celebrations of Pramukh Swami Maharaj is a truly momentous and memorable occasion. Receiving diksha from such a pure guru is like receiving new life.”

Gunvaibhavdas Swami, a BE Civil Engineer from Patna, shared, “Pramukh Swami Maharaj and Mahant Swami Maharaj have showered me with so much unconditional love and they have done so much for our society and our nation, I feel that we can never repay them fully. It is their selfless life that inspires me to take this path of renunciation, service and devotion.”

Shweta Patel, sister of Gurumaydas Swami from Robbinsville, New Jersey, said, “When my brother was young, he had brought home a sacred image (murti) of ‘Thakorji’. He was very devoted to Thakorji, attending to Him with deep reverence and adoration. Now, every Rakshabandhan day, I will tie a rakhi to Thakorji, knowing that my brother is in the service of God. Now that he has become a swami and joined the 1,100 other swamis of BAPS, I feel that I have not lost a brother, but gained 1,100 brothers instead.”

The newly initiated monks will continue their rigorous monastic training at the BAPS ashram in Sarangpur (Hanuman), Gujarat, where they lead a life of simplicity and austerity steeped in devotion, service and learning. The seven-year training course helps them become proficient in their personal spiritual endeavours related to worship, service, austerities and learning. The learning curriculum covers a deep study of Swaminarayan Hindu theology, history and literature as well as of the Ramayana, Mahabharat, Bhagavad Gita, Upanishads and other Hindu scriptures. It also includes a study of languages such as Sanskrit, Hindi, Gujarati and English, and world religions.

Women’s Day 2: Celebrating Women Empowerment

10 Jan. 2023, Tuesday, Ahmedabad, India

Tens of thousands gathered at Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar to participate in the evening assembly titled ‘Women’s Day 2: Celebrating Women’s Empowerment’. Women from around the world presented a Kirtan Aradhana and women dignitaries paid tribute to Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s immense efforts to foster the holistic empowerment and development of millions of girls and women worldwide.

Evening Assembly

The assembly began at 5pm with a special medley of devotional hymns sung by an all-female ensemble from across the world and accompanied by traditional Indian as well as Western instruments.

Dignitaries then paid tribute to Pramukh Swami Maharaj.

Mrs. Amruta Fadnavis, Vice-President Axis Bank, Singer and Social Activist, said, “Pramukh Swami Maharaj spread the message of love across the world and it is wonderful to see everybody including the children following his messages today. He considered everyone a member of his family, which is evident from the 750,000 letters he wrote to devotees. His guidance to lead everyone towards spiritual liberation differentiates him as a true Guru. I bow to Mahant Swami Maharaj, who is taking his legacy forward.”

Honourable Evelyn Anite, State Minister of Finance for Investment and Privatization of Uganda, shared, “When I come to India, I can feel the maxim of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, ‘In the joy of others lies our own.’ I was pleased to meet Indian government officials as well as the Indian people to tell them that our President has recognized Indians as one of the tribes of Uganda. Uganda is a land of peace and unity, and I invite all of you to come. I will take back with me the respectful way Indians treat one another, by bowing and saying ‘namaste’, symbolising peace. Indians are the most hardworking and trustworthy citizens, and Uganda will always welcome you to be a part of our family.”

Honourable Smriti Irani, Minister of Women and Child Development and Minority Affairs of India, added, “I cannot express the depth of my feelings about my experience at Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar. Years ago, when my husband and son met Pramukh Swami Maharaj at the BAPS temple in Mumbai, I stood at a distance and did his darshan. Today, when I stand here and see all the women devotees here, I realise, in the presence of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, at the refuge of the guru – there is strength.

“The dharma of a woman is clear, but what about men? Today, as I explored the Nagar and Bal Nagari, I was given a book in which Pramukh Swami Maharaj was asked, ‘How can one become an ideal husband and father?’ Pramukh Swami Maharaj replied, ‘Make time for your family. Turn off the TV and read scriptures with your children.’

“People ask for shortcuts to attain God, but Pramukh Swami Maharaj clarified that by cultivating virtues, doing one’s duty to family and society, and following the path of prayer and hard work, one will experience heaven on earth. While he did not promise a life free of difficulties, he gave us the spiritual wisdom to navigate the treacherous path of difficulties.

“BAPS explains what true morality is. Pramukh Swami Maharaj taught the balance between rights and responsibilities. This is something women have to balance and battle with every day. If we want to give one message on behalf of India, it should be Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s message – whether male or female, make humility your weapon, walk on the path of values and morality for the benefit of the nation and humanity, then we will be able to take India to greater heights and share its universal message with the world.

“I feel fortunate to have seen the exceptional ‘Sea of Suvarna’ show in the Bal Nagari. For six months, those young girls practised the choreography to teach young children and their parents values in a creative way. All of the girls exuded energy and exuberance. When I asked a young girl why she was smiling despite being away from her parents for so long, she replied, ‘Smritiben, we are offering service.’ This can be seen in each and every volunteer here.”

The Hon. Justice Philomena Mwilu, Deputy Chief Justice of Kenya, said, “As I went around Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar and listened very clearly, I found a lesson to learn at every place. I was told that 80,000 volunteers are serving on this site. If that is not something to celebrate itself, I don’t know what is. When I came to the grounds, I honestly thought it was permanent; I was told it was not. You have done tremendous work to make this place feel like a home. People have sacrificed their time to be here to make this celebration a great success. You have taken the gifts God has given you and shared it with others.

“Women are instrumental in the progress of any society. What I have seen today goes beyond nation and beyond religion. You must keep this for your societies forever.

“Women create successful homes. Mahant Swami Maharaj himself has taught that unless there is harmony in the family, there can be no harmony in society. It is women who create the family. There is no home without a strong woman, and women become strong through the hardships they endure. They need all the support we can provide.

“I have learned a lot today and will take Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s lessons away with me: ‘In the joy of others lies are own.’”

Dr. Nimaben Acharya, Former Speaker of the Gujarat Legislative Assembly, shared, “The 80,000 people who volunteer here experience the satisfaction of service, and the thousands of people who visit experience Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s presence and blessings. The unique bubble wrap portrait of Pramukh Swami Maharaj created by the months-long efforts of 141 British women is just one example of the astounding and tireless service so many from around the world have offered to pay tribute to their guru.

“From the Sant Param Hitkari and de-addiction exhibitions, it was clear Pramukh Swami Maharaj had made even greater efforts to serve others by inspiring virtues and purity in their life. In Adivasi areas, women have suffered tremendously because of their male family members’ addictions. Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s work has done so much to alleviate the suffering of these women. We also saw how Pramukh Swami Maharaj, no matter the circumstances, always took out time to guide, console and bless everyone.

“Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s vision of ‘ghar sabha’, the family spending time together every day, was revolutionary. Such a practise creates positivity. I have personally witnessed this in our own home, as my daughter-in-law is a BAPS devotee and also a doctor. From her influence, I have realized that any woman who engages in devotion creates a happy and positive atmosphere in the home as well as in society.

“Pramukh Swami Maharaj knew that women preserve values. This is why he did so much for women of all ages. He created schools like the one in Randesan, where girls not only study but are taught moral values and ethical living.”

Mrs. Suhag Shukla, Co-founder and Executive Director of the Hindu American Foundation, said, “Viewing the stunning exhibitions built here by the service of volunteers shows what can be achieved through united hearts and minds for a selfless and noble cause.

“Pramukh Swami Maharaj said, ‘Dharma is that which spreads love for one another.’ While it seems simple, it is hard to practise if we think more about what divides us rather than what unites us. So, please say ‘namaste’ to each other with an awareness of its meaning – the divine in me bows to the divine in you. This exemplifies the values of Sanatan Dharma and Pramukh Swami Maharaj.

“We women can make the lessons of Pramukh Swami Maharaj the backbone of society because we care for the next generation. So, the sincere awareness of the divinity within ourselves and others will make us pure from within, allowing us to better see the divinity in all. Pramukh Swami Maharaj taught that when we see God in everyone, nobody is seen to be different.”

Other dignitaries honoured on stage today included:

Bhartiben Dhirubhai Shiyal, National Vice President of BJP
Shardaben Patel, Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha
Poonamben Maadam, Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha
Sanyuktakumari Vijayrajsinh Gohil, Maharani of Bhavnagar
Rivaba Jadeja, MLA for Jamnagar (Gujarat)

Leadership Symposium for Amusement Park Owners

10 Jan. 2023, Tuesday, Ahmedabad, India

A special one-day ‘Leadership Symposium’ was organized for amusement park owners and operators as a part of the centenary birth celebrations of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj in Ahmedabad on 10 January 2023.

This symposium, organized in partnership with the Indian Association of Amusement Parks and Industries (IAAPI), was led by a panel of prominent speakers, namely Shrikant Goenka, (Director, IAAPI), Venkatesh Maheshwari (Entrepreneur, Gokyo Outdoor Apparel and Lifestyles) and Upasana A. Agarwal (Professor, National Institute of Industrial Engineering (NITIE)).

In his welcome address, Shrikant Goenka, (Director of IAAPI), elaborated upon the programme for the day. He said, “Many aspects of leadership and management can be learned from BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha.”

Venkatesh Maheshwari of Gokyo Outdoor Apparel and Lifestyles delivered an insightful talk on ‘The Mountains are Calling and I Must Go’. In sharing his experiences, challenges and learnings from summitting Mount Everest in 2018 and from other treks, he said, “It was my childhood passion to climb Mount Everest. By climbing Everest, I was trying to achieve what only 10% of climbers managed before the age of 45. One should understand that there is no shortcut to success and learn to accept failures. One should strive to build strength and the power of determination. Adapting fast to changes is an indispensable quality for leaders to learn.”

In his enriching session, Gnanvatsaldas Swami, a leading spiritual motivational speaker of BAPS, said, “The cultural wonderland of Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar is beyond human comprehension. It is the result of the selfless service of 80,000 volunteers hailing from different academic disciplines, cultures and backgrounds. These volunteers are the biggest strength of BAPS and have all been inspired by the pure life and exemplary spiritual leadership of Pramukh Swami Maharaj and Mahant Swami Maharaj. As a testament to the strength of Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s purity and selflessness, around 300 farmers, who collectively own the 600 acres of land upon which Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar has been created, have happily donated their entire land for a year.

“What Pramukh Swami Maharaj has achieved is hard to quantify in just numbers. He assumed the spiritual leadership of BAPS in 1971 at the age of 49. Over the 45 years of his spiritual leadership, Pramukh Swami Maharaj travelled to more than 50 countries, sanctified 250,000 homes, replied to 750,000 letters, created 1300 societal institutions (temples, hospitals, schools, hostels, etc.), and initiated 1,100 sadhus. Pramukh Swami Maharaj mastered Human Relations by touching the lives of every person he met. He personally knew the names and faces of more than 25,000 people.

“Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar is a homage to the selfless leadership of Pramukh Swami Maharaj. This complex is a perfect example of management through faith in God and hard work.”

Professor Upasana A. Agarwal of the National Institute of Industrial Engineering delivered a talk on ‘The Role of Leadership in Building High-Performance Organizations.’ She said, “I am glad that IIM-A is making a case study on Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar and that is one of the prime reasons for my presence here today. Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar has catered to the Sustainability Quotient by being equipped with things that are recyclable and reusable. The influence of a leader can be measured by how much impact he has had in people’s lives. Through his spiritual leadership, Pramukh Swami Maharaj has transformed people positively and made a permanent impact in their lives. The essentials of effective leadership are measured through Intellectual Quotient (IQ), Emotional Quotient (EQ), Spiritual Quotient (SQ) and Physical Quotient (PQ). Effective leaders have high levels of EQ and empathy. They are optimistic yet realistic; they have an adaptability mindset. They indulge in efficient communication and have a knack for problem-solving skills.”

In his inspiring concluding address titled ‘From Nowhere to Now Here’, Brahmaviharidas Swami, a senior swami of BAPS and project lead for the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, said, “The end goal as owners of amusement parks is to bring smiles onto people’s faces. We always focus on the first experience we provide, but rarely emphasize what experience we are leaving people with in the end. We live in the age of promotion and marketing where we want to show more than what we are. However, adding honesty and spirituality in the marketing of the amusement industry will provide you with both growth and satisfaction. One should strive to provide quality in one’s work but should also treat others with equality and empathy.

“Pramukh Swami Maharaj advised Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam to add ‘Faith in God’ as a 6th pillar for his vision of 2020. One should have a team of good people to achieve any goal. Without morality, there can never be good people, and for morality, faith in God is essential. Thus, adding spirituality to whatever you do will give you satisfaction.

“Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar is a cultural wonderland with spirituality as its central theme. Hundreds of thousands of visitors come to this magnificent complex every day without the aid of a giant media campaign. Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar is a reflection of the love 80,000 volunteers have for Pramukh Swami Maharaj.”

In his vote of thanks, Rajen Shah, Managing Director of Arihant Industrial Corporation, appreciated the management and volunteerism of everyone at Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar. He said, “Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar is a university for amusement park owners.”

Today’s event marks the end of a series of 14 such conferences for professionals of various fields, including accountants, lawyers, industrialists, technocrats and entrepreneurs. It is a testament to the progressive mindset of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, whose work and teachings touched people from all walks of life, to ensure the holistic success and happiness of everyone in society.

Africani Amar Anjali: BAPS Africa Day

9 Jan. 2023, Monday, Ahmedabad, India

Mahant Swami Maharaj and dignitaries from around the world pay tribute to Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s work of fostering Hindu spirituality and culture on the African Continent

On 9 January 2023, BAPS devotees from various countries in Africa presented a creative programme titled, ‘Africa’s Timeless Tribute: BAPS Africa Day’ to tens of thousands assembled at Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar. Following the special programme, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj and dignitaries from around the world paid tribute to Pramukh Swami Maharaj and his ability to inspire spirituality, temples, and humanitarian service in Africa and around the world.

Evening Assembly

The thought-provoking programme commenced with devotees from Africa singing dhun and prarthana. Following this, various dramas, videos, dances, and speeches depicted Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s tireless efforts in traveling, constructing mandirs, and serving and transforming the lives of thousands of devotees and volunteers around Africa.

Sadguru Viveksagardas Swami narrated the history of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha in the African continent. Recounting BAPS’s deep roots in Africa, he noted how almost a century ago, Shastriji Maharaj encouraged devotees living in East Africa to gather and worship regularly. Yogiji Maharaj travelled to Africa in 1955 and later in 1960, consecrating temples in Mombasa, Kampala, Jinja, and Tororo. In 1960, 9 youths were given monastic initiation, one of whom was from Africa – Mahendrabhai Patel. He was the first Swaminarayan swami from outside of India, and we know him today as Sadguru Tyagvallabhdas Swami. The roots of BAPS UK lie in Africa, as much of the early devotees there were migrants from Africa. It was Yogiji Maharaj’s wish that a grand stone mandir be built in Africa. Pramukh fulfilled this wish by building a traditional stone mandir in Nairobi in 1999, which, together with BAPS’s 25 other mandirs in Africa, represent and foster Hindu faith and traditions across Africa.

Amrutswarupdas Swami and Paramkirtidas Swami narrated various incidents of African devotees who were inspired by Pramukh Swami Maharaj to renounce addictions and violence, forgive those who had harmed them, adopt a simple lifestyle, remain firm in their devotional observances and serve society.

Priyavratdas Swami offered a prayer to Mahant Swami Maharaj, “To celebrate BAPS Africa’s centenary five years hence, we pray that we may further cultivate the virtues of humility, tolerance, and Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s motto – In the joy of others. May all the devotees and all of Africa become prosperous, may everyone become ideal devotees, and may BAPS Africa’s centenary be celebrated on a grand scale.”

A special issue on the Pramukh Swami Maharaj Centennial Celebrations in the Journal of Contemporary Research Studies in Tanzania was inaugurated by Mahant Swami Maharaj. BAPS youth wrote several research articles for this academic journal, which was produced by the BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute, Tanzania and St. Augustine University.

Mahant Swami Maharaj inaugurated a new English publication, “My Personal Mala: My Daily Companion” written by Amrutvijaydas Swami which shows Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s love for worship, even during intense travels and service.

Mahant Swami Maharaj inaugurated another new English publication, “In the joy of others” that provides a historical account of Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s efforts for the success of the Narmada Dam Project.

Mahant Swami Maharaj then said, “The many satsang centers around Africa have come together and presented a beautiful programme on the occasion of BAPS Africa Day. Shastriji Maharaj laid the foundations of Satsang in Africa. Nirgundas Swami strengthened this foundation through his letters to African devotees. Upon this foundation, Yogiji Maharaj and Pramukh Swami Maharaj built a great edifice of Satsang centres and mandirs. I travelled to Africa twice with Yogiji Maharaj and three times with Pramukh Swami Maharaj, and those memories are still fresh for me. I have seen how Yogiji Maharaj and Pramukh Swami Maharaj have endured immense hardships to please the devotees of Africa. Only such souls who have tremendous mental stability can endure such hardships.

“We have also seen the devotees of Africa remain staunch in their faith and niyams to please Pramukh Swami Maharaj. Young and old, male and female, this continues today, allowing Satsang to continue growing. Without staunch observance of niyams, this could not happen. Everyone strives to serve through body, mind, and wealth, and they are fully devoted. I pray that everyone’s devotion may be further strengthened, that their social and financial circumstances improve and that everyone attains happiness in this world and in God’s abode.”

Several esteemed dignitaries were also present to pay tribute to Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s life of selfless service.

Honourable G. Kishan Reddy, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Development of the North Eastern Region of India- Government of India said, “Pramukh Swami Maharaj combined spirituality, modernity, and values. His life was full of culture, spiritual endeavour, empathy, sacrifice and service. He thought of the happiness of others and felt his own happiness lay in it. His global personality can be seen from the celebrations in his honour at the United Nations in New York. Like Vivekananda Swami who believed that service of humans is the service of God, I see this value in the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha. Great universities will have to study this festival, which will be an inspiration for them.

“Pramukh Swami Maharaj worked for the development of individuals, families, communities, nations and the world. BAPS is one of the greatest social organizations in the world. In India and abroad they engage in service activities during times of crisis, whether it was the earthquake in Kutch, the floods in Assam, the cyclone in West Bengal, the war in Ukraine, the COVID pandemic, or the tragedy in Morbi. Wherever they are in the world, one sees the volunteers of BAPS offering service to the world. The grand mandirs of BAPS attract hundreds of thousands of people to India fostering both our spiritual heritage and our economy. Here one can see the spirit of service, values, cleanliness, service, and sacrifice.”

Honourable Justice Sharad Arvind Bobde, Former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of India, said, “I have tremendous respect for the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha. I have read about Pramukh Swami Maharaj in President Abdul Kalam’s book, Transcendence: My Experiences with Pramukh Swamiji. It is not my place to praise his spiritual qualities but having presided over many courts and dealt with many calamities, it is indeed very heartening to note that Pramukh Swami Maharaj inspired service for some of our country’s greatest social causes. The members of BAPS are seen to help wherever there is a calamity.

“BAPS has become a world-renowned institution. It is founded on the teachings of the Vedas and has done incredible work in the preservation of Sanatan Dharma in all its aspects. When you see the activities of BAPS, one feels a great sense of belonging to the great traditions of Sanatan Dharma. The first sentiment of world unity was the Vedic statement ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbhakam’. This is also the motto of the Indian Parliament. As Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of India, the Supreme Court and the Parliament all work under the motto, ‘Where there is Dharma there is victory.’

“Sanatan Dharma is timeless and pure. There is nothing in it against any kind of people. Indeed, it originated when there was no other religious thought in this world. It stands on the great pillars of the concepts of the atman, the different celestial realms and the ultimate authority of Paramatma. The three great ancient civilizations of Greece, Rome and Egypt no longer survive, but Varanasi survives and is thriving. This is a sign of the greatness of our culture and our civilization.

“Kashi is one of the world’s oldest cities, and Ayodhya is even older. India was a great culture even then. Nalanda and Takashila were great universities. We made advances in science, mathematics and so many branches of science. And I do not wish to undermine the importance of the social impact of our cultural values. In fact, most of these great values can be found in the Shikshapatri written by Parabrahman Purushottam Bhagwan Swaminarayan.

“I would like to conclude with a statement of Sardar Patel who said, ‘If every Indian followed Bhagwan Swaminarayan’s Shikshapatri, there would be no need for police or courts.’ I don’t think that anything greater can be said about the value of the teachings of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha.”

Honourable Tejendra Khanna, Former Lieutenant Governor of Delhi said, “Saints and great holy men have explained our relationship with God. We relate to society and family members, but we all have an individual relationship with God. We can either relate to or break that bond with God. A person’s devotion determines one’s connection with God. When I was the Lieutenant Governor in Delhi, I met Pramukh Swami Maharaj three times. He met with me lovingly and blessed me that I should serve people. He said that if I do this, I will find success and the love of people. Having a seat of authority means to serve.

“Today, learning about the efforts of BAPS to serve around the world has been inspiring. There are no words to describe BAPS’s service and love for people. Please continue to give your love and blessings to me, Mahant Swami Maharaj. Where there is love, there is no Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, or Christian. God is present in everyone. Where there is love, vices are destroyed.”

Honourable Justice Alfonse Chigamoy Owiny-Dollo, Chief Justice of Uganda said, “Today, I have seen with my own eyes what faith, love, devotion, commitment and utmost dedication can do. I have seen fulfilment in the faces of everyone I have met during these two days. It is amazing. This is the work of God. Nothing can move the world more than faith. This is what I have seen here. I have seen the inexplicable, the indescribable assemblage of infrastructure and people who are gathered here from the morning into the night. This is so inspiring.

“During my visit to one of the exhibitions here there is a caption, ‘One earth, one family, one future.’ I think this sums up all that has been said about the purpose and meaning of life given by Pramukh Swami Maharaj. His good works and contributions to the world are a constant source of reflection and a clarion call to all of us to love, love and love. The world is a much better place when we understand the meaning of love.

“Pramukh Swami Maharaj was meticulous, thorough, and devoted to his chosen mission to change the world. His teachings and his attention to small details in every task remains a special attribute for all to emulate. Being a part of these celebrations is one of the greatest opportunities in my life and I will always remember this. My personal encounter with Mahant Swami Maharaj and receiving his blessings has had a profound effect on me. The consequences were immediate.”

Pujya Bodhinatha Veylanswami, Guru Mahasannidhanam of Kauai Aadheenam (Hawaii, USA) said, “In today’s troubled world, many thoughtful individuals are concerned with bringing greater peace into the world. A temple such as the Swaminarayan mandir helps individuals find more peace within themselves, which in turn brings greater harmony into their homes, which in turn brings greater tolerance and unity within the community. Certainly, the many mandirs established through the inspiration of Pramukh Swami Maharaj including those in the African countries of Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and South Africa will continue generation after generation, helping Hindu values, traditions and customs flourish as well as contributing in an unseen way to making the world a more peaceful place.

“A second important aspect of the Swaminarayan mandirs is how they will influence the current and future generations of children. With most schools focusing solely on secular studies, there is a need for children to learn traditional values in a religious setting such as this. In other words, it is not enough to simply learn to read and write, children also need to learn what to read and write. The concept of what it means to be a successful adult needs to include not only wealth and family, but also the principles of a pious life, virtuous conduct, fulfilment of duty to the family, community and country, and regular worship of God and guru in the mandir and in the home shrine.

“In our 2004 visit to the opening of the Houston mandir one father proudly told us about how his two sons devoted their entire summer working all day in the construction of the Houston mandir. We were quite impressed at the extent of their dedication. Through the inspiration of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, BAPS is an excellent model for other Hindu organizations to follow in successfully involving youth in the construction and subsequent activities of mandirs worldwide.”

His Holiness Sri Swami Yogaswarupanandaji Maharaj, President of the Divine Life Society said, “I am thankful to be present at the celebration of HH Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s birth centenary. I had the privilege of meeting Yogiji Maharaj in 1964 in Gondal and was thankful for knowing them.”

Pujya Madhu Pandit Dasa Ji, President of ISKCON Bengaluru said, “That so many volunteers have been able to organize this celebration for an entire month is an expression of their love and faith. Pramukh Swami Maharaj was an embodiment of purity, love and compassion, so this is a fitting celebration of those values.

“Pramukh Swami Maharaj had so much faith in chanting God’s name. That was his strength and surely is the strength of all his devotees. Through the construction of architecturally iconic temples all over the world, Pramukh Swami Maharaj contributed in an unimaginable way to the spread of Hinduism and the propagation of Bhagwan Swaminarayan’s message worldwide. His contributions to serving humanity are known to all.

“In my first meeting with Pramukh Swami Maharaj, I was struck by his deep, penetrating gaze. The way he would look into your eyes was beyond the body, beyond any designation—it was a look directly into the soul. His glance was a glance of divine grace that could raise the divinity in everyone’s hearts. His work for 45 years as guru showed he was a very pure instrument in the hands of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, whose teachings are bringing and will bring peace, harmony, happiness, and spirituality to the masses of the modern world.”

Dr. Bhupinder (Sonu) Sharma, Author, Educator, Business Counsellor and Entrepreneur said, “To be in the presence of Mahant Swami Maharaj is one of the greatest moments of my life.”

BAPS Africa Women’s Wing Program ‘Katha Kahu Ek Yug Purush Ni’

9 Jan. 2023, Monday, Ahmedabad, India

On 9 January 2023, a special program titled ‘Katha Kahu Ek Yug Purush Ni’ was organized by the BAPS Africa Women’s wing in the Women’s Empowerment Hall at Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar. The vibrant program enthralled the audience with traditional musical dances of Africa and India, highlights from Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s spiritual travels in Africa as well as an inspirational skit depicting a personal incident of a devotee who was facing many challenges of life with unshakeable faith in God and unwavering strength.

Some volunteers shared their experiences of how Pramukh Swami Maharaj transformed their lives by building temples and starting the weekly assemblies in Africa.

Ms. Alpha Mehta, BAPS Women’s Wing volunteer from South Africa, said “When I came to South Africa with my husband and son, we did not know anyone. But, upon visiting the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in South Africa, I felt a sense of belonging. While I was new to the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, everyone would patiently answer my questions about theology and spiritual practise. My curiosity led me to read the Swaminarayan scriptures, which further resolved my questions. I felt enlightened by the weekly assemblies and started getting involved in serving the community. These activities transformed me into a very productive and confident person.”

“When I initially came to South Africa, I barely knew how to cook basic recipes. Every week we would gather in the mandir to listen to spiritual discourses and celebrate the festivals. It was during these festivals that I learned many skills like how to cook various dishes, perform in various creative programs, and work together with groups of people to accomplish a goal. Later, when I met my in-laws in India, they were shocked to see how much more of an Indian I had become after moving to South Africa. I am so grateful for the BAPS community and mandir in South Africa as it is due to them, the current and upcoming generations will retain the values of our culture and refrain from the vices that are otherwise prevalent in society. The impact of the temple as well as its activities is so widespread that people from various professions are extending their support to encourage us. ”

Mrs. Jyonita Patel, a baker from Lenasia, South Africa, recounted an incident in which she discussed the influence of her strong, cultured mother in her life. She said, “My mother requested me to bake an aeroplane cake for Swaminarayan Bhagwan while we were planning for the Hindu New Year Celebrations in the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir. But because of my prior poor experiences with baking, I was hesitant. She offered me encouragement and courage by reassuring me that Pramukh Swami Maharaj will lead me. She even persuaded a seasoned baker to instruct me in the art of icing. Today, I am a professional baker and I owe my success to her and Pramukh Swami Maharaj. When I reflect on this incident, Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s wise words come to mind, ‘One cultured mother is equal to 100 excellent teachers.’”

“My mother was the glue that bound my family together. So when we lost my mother, my family and I were completely shattered. But Pramukh Swami Maharaj gave me the strength to look after my family in these trying times. It is because of him that I have transformed into the self-assured and self-reliant person I am today.”

Mrs. Sarasvati Jivan, a teacher from Lenasia, South Africa, said, “I feel blessed to be a small part of Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s Centenary Celebrations. Although I have anchored many events in the past, none of them have given me the same excitement that I felt when I got onto the stage today.”

“In 1998, we went to London for Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s darshan. In those days my husband had a few vices and so I had written a letter to Pramukh Swami Maharaj to help me persuade my husband to give them up. Much to my amazement, after doing Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s darshan, my husband had a change of heart. He expressed that he found the strength to give up his vices after looking into Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s divine eyes. This experience reaffirms my belief that he is always listening to our prayers and guiding us onto the path of spirituality.”

“Pramukh Swami Maharaj always said a mandir brings a community together. I had the pleasure of seeing those words come to life when we were building the temple in Johannesburg. People from different communities offered their services, some offered their time while some offered their resources. This helped bring us closer together.”

On this occasion, Dr. Jyoti Pandya Sheth was felicitated in the Women Empowerment Exhibition Hall.

Dr. Jyoti Pandya Sheth, National Vice President Mahila Morcha, BJP Gujarat, Former Mayor of Vadodara, Gujarat, expressed, “Magnificent is the only word that comes to mind when I think of this Nagar. The positive vibrations emanating from here will spread across humanity and will in the future help us survive peacefully. I am blessed to have had the opportunity to attend this program. The entire team of 80,000 volunteers has left a legacy for the world to follow.”

BAPS UK and Europe Women’s Wing Programme ‘Vahetu Jivan Tamaru’

8 Jan. 2023, Sunday, Ahmedabad, India

On 8 January 2023, a special program was organised by the BAPS UK and Europe Women’s Wing in the Women’s Empowerment Hall at Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar to celebrate Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s centennial birth anniversary. The deeply thought-provoking and emotive programme titled ‘Vahetu Jivan Tamaru’ celebrated Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s presence on this earth through the unique medium of water as being purifying, spiritually energising, and constantly flowing in selfless service to unite all with God.

The programme was interspersed with videos, prayers, devotional singing and dancing. Women of all ages also shared moving testimonies of their personal life-transforming experiences, revealing Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s divine personality and borderless compassion.

Ms. Rashmi Patel of Paris said, “In the year 2000, my husband was diagnosed with depression and had addictions that made life very difficult for us. However, in 2006, a letter from Pramukh Swami Maharaj, transformed my life. It gave me strength to face this tough situation. In 2013, as a result of my intense prayers and Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s compassion, my husband got the chance to have his darshan. His lifestyle changed drastically after that. He was able to overcome depression as well as give up his addictions. He is now sincerely involved in various spiritual activities. Because of Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s care, my family life has become blissful.”

Ms. Priyaben Amlani of London said, “I had a spiritual upbringing in my Hindu family. However, I went to a different country for my higher education and lost the connection with spirituality as well as temples. Since none of my friends at that time were involved in any spiritual activities, I too was living a life devoid of it. However, once I happened to visit Neasden temple and I felt immense peace. It reminded me of my home. I was very curious to know who created this temple that had such a powerful impact on me. I started researching about Pramukh Swami Maharaj and learned that he was going to visit the BAPS temple in Toronto. Hence, I went alone to Toronto and the moment I did his darshan, I felt that I had found my parents, my true connection and peace. His respect for every religion touched me. I decided to make him my Guru and follow in his footsteps. I feel that my life has been transformed by coming to the Neasden temple. He is holding my hand in all the challenges of life. I cannot even imagine what I would have become if it were not for his presence and the temple that he built in London. There are innumerable people whose lives he has transformed through the BAPS Neasden temple.”

On this occasion, dignitaries Rajyogini Dr. Binny Sareen, Ms. Bhargavi Dave, Ms. Nivedita Chaudhari, Ms. Harsha Parmar and Ms. Ektaba Sodha were also felicitated in the Women Empowerment Exhibition Hall.

Rajyogini Dr. Binny Sareen, Founder & President, Awakening Spirituality, Global Initiative for Peace & Wellbeing, Brahma Kumari HQ, Global Hospital, Mount Abu, describing her experience at Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar said, “It is an absolute delight and honour to visit Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar. Pramukh Swami Maharaj Centenary Celebration is a marvellous miracle of spirituality. Words fall short in describing this Nagar. From this place, the purity, the spiritual messages of love, brotherhood, kindness, blessings, and divine virtues are spreading all over the world. The 7 wonders of the world are nothing compared to what has been created here. In my opinion, this in itself is the number one wonder of spirituality. The message of moral virtues, goodness, love and brotherhood is spreading far and wide across the world from here.”

Offering tribute to Pramukh Swami Maharaj, she said “Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s inspirational life, his work and divine virtues reflect his message of peace and service to society. These messages are absolutely necessary in these present times. He bestowed happiness, love and smiles on everyone. Pramukh Swami Maharaj is a complete ‘Yug Purush’ who has guided us onto a beautiful path of service, happiness, love and peace.

Expressing her appreciation for the efforts of the volunteers, she said, “I especially want to felicitate those volunteering here. The time that you devote here is a great service. From the moment I entered this place, I have been greeted and served with vibrant smiles. Irrespective of financial status, everyone here is able to contribute something, whether it is by smiling at everyone, uttering kind words, expressing compassion through one’s eyes and helping others.”

She concluded her speech by encouraging women to believe in themselves, stating, “Women’s empowerment is very necessary as women can create a lot of wonders. Women should realise that ‘W’ in women stands for ‘wonderful creation of God’; ‘O’ stands for ‘outstanding qualities such as tolerance, compassion etc.’; ‘M’ stands for ‘meditating mind’ while ‘E’ and ‘N’ stand for ‘energetic’ and ‘nurturing’ qualities, respectively.”

Ms. Bhargavi Dave, Director of the District Rural Development Agency, Gandhinagar, said, “I have seen magnificence in many places and I have felt divinity in many places as well, but here I can feel purity and holiness all around me. This holy land is a culmination of magnificence, divinity and purity. There aren’t enough words to describe a holy saint like Pramukh Swami Maharaj.”

Pramukh Swami Maharaj is a ‘Purna Purush’. His divine presence clearly exists here. I am currently overcome with emotions and am feeling overwhelmed after observing how beautifully, elegantly and seamlessly this Pramukh Swami Maharaj Centenary Celebration has been organised. I firmly believe that prestigious universities such as Harvard University, ought to conduct a case study of the Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar and use it to educate their students. This Nagar vividly demonstrates concepts like celebrations, microplanning, and management. Upon entering the Nagar, I noticed that every volunteer has a loving smile on their face.”

“During my childhood, I had the pleasure of being a part of the past celebrations organised by BAPS in the years 1980 and 1985. Being a part of this current ‘Festival of Inspirations’ makes me feel blessed. Everyone is welcome at this Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar, regardless of age, religion, caste, or creed. Pramukh Swami Maharaj was the epitome of love, compassion and kindness. Even if we take something small away from this Nagar, our lives will become more meaningful. Although humans are materialistic, salvation is what we strive for in the end. Satsang and following in the footsteps of a ‘Purna Purush’ like Pramukh Swami Maharaj are the only ways of attaining salvation. It is miraculous that volunteers from all walks of life are serving harmoniously together. This Nagar is a blend of the five fundamental values which include devotion, positive emotions, dedication, faith and service. This Nagar, like the forest of Panch Vati exudes saintliness. Visitors from all over the world are being attracted to the Nagar.”

She spoke passionately about women’s empowerment. Emphasising the importance of women in our society, she said, “Women are excellent beings in their own right and shouldn’t try to be more like men. Women are the embodiments of strength, faith, wealth, intelligence, kindness, forgiveness and peace. A mother binds a family together. Pramukh Swami Maharaj often said that a cultured mother is equivalent to 100 excellent teachers. We are indebted to our mothers.”

Ms. Nivedita Chaudhari, Commissioner of Madadnish Niyamak School, expressed, “This entire festival is an ethereal conscious experience. It has been a priceless experience. In this Nagar, I can feel divinity all around me.”

Ms. Ektaba Sodha, CEO Satya Sai School, Educationalist and Environmentalist, said, “The Women’s Empowerment Hall is a wonderful concept and is beautifully executed. I am ever so blessed to be here surrounded by the grace of Shri Pramukh Swami Maharaj.”

In His Own Words: BAPS UK and Europe Day

8 Jan. 2023, Sunday, Ahmedabad, India

On 8 January 2023, BAPS devotees from the UK and Europe presented a creative programme titled, ‘In His Own Words: BAPS UK and Europe Day’ celebrating Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s contributions to fostering the cultural and spiritual heritage of thousands in UK and Europe. Following the programme, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj and dignitaries from around the world paid tribute to Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s inspiration of personal spirituality, Hindu mandirs and humanitarian service in UK and Europe.

From 1970 to 2007, Pramukh Swami Maharaj visited the UK and Europe 19 times creating 16 mandirs and over 40 centres fostering morality and spirituality among thousands. In August 1995, he consecrated the iconic stone BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir in London. Additionally, the foundation-stone-laying ceremony for the BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu mandir in Paris was performed in 2022.

Evening Assembly

The programme commenced at 5.00 PM with over 100 participants of all ages singing dhun. Following this, a drama interspersed with various skits, videos and speeches, depicted Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s tireless efforts for the devotees of UK and Europe. Through Mahant Swami Maharaj’s analogies of a flute, pot and rain drops in his publication Divine Memories 4, the audience discovered how Pramukh Swami Maharaj wore out his body for the devotees of UK and Europe, how his universal love touched the hearts of all and how he granted all the bliss of God.

UK-based architect Nigel Lane, Managing Director of A. Lane Architects, who helped design the Haveli of the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in London shared his impressions of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, “I worked closely with Pramukh Swami Maharaj between 1990 and 1995 on a project that was the first of its kind in the West. Today, I want to share what he was like as a person. We had no common language, but his presence came through. He was a man with deep love and affection, full of goodness and doing great things for humanity. Quiet and dignified, so lovely to work with, and without the usual noise of language. He worked hard, giving all his time and energy to others. That is a unique love.

“Swamiji truly cared for me quietly and deeply. He left a lasting influence on me, and I cherish those memories, which have been etched into my heart. When beside the sea, you don’t see the tide coming in. It comes in imperceptibly. That is how I felt about his inspiration. It was quiet, subtle and rises up inside. Pramukh Swami Maharaj wasn’t just a Swaminarayan, he wasn’t just a guru, he was a universal man. It would be wrong for me to say I miss him because I truly feel that he is eternal. He has remained with me ever since.”

His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj shared his experiences with Pramukh Swami Maharaj saying, “Contemplating Pramukh Swami Maharaj increases our understanding and love for him. He has continued to shower immense love and affection on us all. What I distinctly remember from my first meeting with Pramukh Swami Maharaj was his simple, unpretentious demeanour. He was absolutely natural and guileless. He made no effort whatsoever to impress, and yet he left a deep, indelible impression: ‘Yes!’ I remember saying to myself, ‘This is what I call a sadhu!’

“That is the Pramukh Swami Maharaj I have experienced. I’ve said this much, but it still seems like I have not said enough. He was a mountain of virtues, difficult to fully grasp, but this will help us understand him better. Ultimately, we pray, Swami, please help us recognize you and grant us the eternal bliss of God.”

Several esteemed dignitaries were also present to pay tribute to Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s life of selfless service.

Stage Guests:

Gopichand Hinduja, Co-Chairperson of the Hinduja Group shared, “Pramukh Swami Maharaj was not a highly educated management professional, but a simple man who found it to be his divine mission to fulfil God’s vision. He produced practical results because he firmly believed that he worked for God, not for himself. I witnessed Pramukh Swami Maharaj meticulously planning the Neasden Temple to its last detail. Pramukh Swami Maharaj overcame many challenges, whether it was permissions or financial struggles, but he was committed to completing the mandir. Life can be like a journey through a dense forest, dark and foreboding. But if you have noble and good souls like Pramukh Swami Maharaj with you, it enlightens you and shows the way how to move forward.”

Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas and Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs of the Government of India shared, “Pramukh Swami Maharaj personified saintliness and exuded divinity. As a guide and guru, he touched countless lives not only in India but across the world. He was respected and admired as one of the greatest spiritual leaders of our time. He was truly a ‘people’s guru’.

“I have worked closely with BAPS and the BAPS mandir in London for many decades. During the period of the Bhuj earthquake, I witnessed and participated in the exemplary relief efforts offered by the London mandir and the global BAPS organisation with their hundreds of thousands of volunteers. Recently, I also witnessed BAPS’s efforts in setting up mobile field kitchens in southeastern Poland during the evacuation of 23,000 Indian students stuck in Ukraine during the military action there. BAPS fed over 1,000 hot vegetarian meals daily to refugees of all faiths and nationalities, touching the hearts of all who were associated with that effort.

“Right from the beginning of our 7000-year-old civilization, India has emphasised respect for spirituality, saintliness, good deeds, alleviating human suffering and helping people in distress, which finds expression today in Prime Minister Modi’s philosophy of helping the most disadvantaged first. Such is the vastness and depth of our civilizational knowledge, cultural depth and tradition that today, as we celebrate 75 years of independence and leadership of the G20, there is much that India has to offer the world, and the work of BAPS as similarly inspired cultural, social, and spiritual initiatives providing comfort and care to millions.

“When our nation’s development activities for the countries of the global South are showcased, we will also include the work of spiritual organisations like BAPS, which has a global outreach of 1,300 mandirs, 5,000 centres, and thousands of selfless volunteers. BAPS’s humanitarian relief work has had a far-reaching impact on innumerable lives.”

Gen. Dr. V.K. Singh, Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways and Civil Aviation of the Government of India said, “The work done by BAPS is incomparable. I have seen for many years that in every difficulty, BAPS has worked for the nation and humanity like no other. During the Ukraine crisis, at Prime Minister Modi’s request to Mahant Swami Maharaj, in no time, volunteers from BAPS UK and Europe reached out to rescue our people.”

“I feel that spirituality is like an ocean, while religions are like rivers that ultimately come to the ocean. The spirituality that inspires us to serve humanity is the highest spirituality. There are not many like Pramukh Swami Maharaj who touched everyone’s heart and showed compassion for others by serving in this way.”

His Excellency Alex Ellis, British High Commissioner to India said, “We saw how BAPS has given exceptional service in India, the UK and across the world, during the Ukraine crisis, the COVID pandemic and on many other occasions. You are what Prime Minister Modi refers to as the ‘Living Bridge’—the foundation on which the relationship between the UK and India is built. We want that connection between our countries to be a strong bridge of openness, tolerance and diversity that supports all the good things between the great nation of India and the United Kingdom. I observed that bridge producing talent, ideas, and culture as well as, of course, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Rishi Sunak, a practising Hindu.

“I would like to share a message that His Majesty King Charles III has sent to those assembled here today, ‘As you commemorate the 100th anniversary of the birth of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, I wish to send you all my warmest good wishes. It was the greatest pleasure to meet His Holiness at St. James’s Palace in 1997, and to have been able to visit on several occasions over the years the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Neasden, which His Holiness helped to create. His Holiness’s timeless message that ‘In the joy of others lies our own, in the progress of others rests our own, in the good of others abides our own, know this to be the key to peace and happiness,’ resonates as much now as it always has.’”

The Right Honourable Rishi Sunak MP Prime Minister of the United Kingdom shared a video message for the assembly in which he said, “Pramukh Swami Maharaj lived by the maxim that ‘In the joy of others lies our own.’ In the UK he was the inspiration of our magnificent Neasden temple, a familiar sight on our London skyline known as much for its service to the local community as it is for its beauty. That dedication to service is found in all 14 of the mandirs Pramukh Swami Maharaj inspired across the UK. And throughout the pandemic, they stepped up not only to help the Hindu community, but thousands who needed support during that difficult time. Over the past many years, these efforts have not gone unrecognised. Roads have been named after Pramukh Swami Maharaj, and our iconic Wembley Stadium arch has been lit up to pay tribute to his service and support for our country. So, as you gather to mark Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s 100^th birth anniversary, let me pay my respects to his enduring memory and the incredible legacy he has passed on. I wish you every success with these anniversary celebrations.”

Padma Shri Bob Blackman, UK Member of Parliament (Harrow East), “As we celebrate the birth centenary of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, we remember his words, ‘In the joy of others lies our own.’ Those eight simple words sum up the man who gave such devotion and dedication to the whole world. Although his earthly time has come to an end, his spirit continues on eternally. He leaves a lasting legacy with 1,125 magnificent mandirs and millions of devotees, every one of which carries his spirit and his message. That lasting legacy will go on eternally, long after we’ve all left this earth.

“I offer my gratitude to all the volunteers of BAPS who have been such a force for good in the United Kingdom, whether it is in providing education, voluntary support or service. The greatest thing about every BAPS volunteer is that you can be the Chief Executive of the most important company in the country or a humble worker, but in the mandir, everyone is equal, and everyone takes on the tasks necessary to do the job.”

Sir Keir Rodney Starmer MP Leader of the Opposition and Leader of the Labour Party, UK shared a video message in which he said, “I have been privileged to visit Neasden Temple in London created by His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj. It truly is a landmark for Hindus and the whole of the United Kingdom. It is incredible to see first-hand how thousands of volunteers have been inspired to serve society. This was clearly visible during the pandemic, the Ukraine crisis, and now the cost-of-living crisis. Pramukh Swami Maharaj was a leader, building over 1,200 temples and his work has been recognized across the world.”

Padma Shri Barry Gardiner, UK Member of Parliament (Brent North) said, “Pramukh Swami Maharaj never valued a person for what they owned. For him, every person had worth and was valuable because they were a human being – a life precious to God. All who have ever met Pramukh Swami Maharaj will know what I mean when I say, with his eyes he seemed to look right into your heart, into your soul. It did not feel uncomfortable because you never felt he was doing it to judge you. I am sure he could have seen all the wrongs, all the selfish things that we try to hide away, but he was not looking for those. He was looking for the good in us, for the human, for the worthy, because he knew and believed it was there—however small, however much we might have hidden it even from ourselves.

“Yesterday, I visited Akshardham in Gandhinagar where a wonderful gentleman told me that 30 years ago, Pramukh Swami Maharaj had given him a rule to live by that could be literally translated as, ‘The things that are good, I make my own.’ But what it really means is that whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are noble, whatsoever things are worthy, think on these things and build your life around them. A life that is focused not on possessions, but on the good, the beautiful, the worthy—that was the life of Pramukh Swami Maharaj. May he continue to inspire each one of us to make it our life as well.”

Pujya Rakeshbhai Jhaveri, Founder and Spiritual Head of Shrimad Rajchandra Mission said, “Julius Caesar said, ‘Veni, Vidi, Vici—I came. I saw. I conquered.’ When I met Pramukh Swami for the first time in Gondal in 1991, I said, ‘I came, I saw and he conquered my heart.’ When you think of the many positive qualities, only one name comes to mind—Pramukh Swami Maharaj. He was a river of service and compassion. He was free of ego and totally pure. Formation and transformation were the hallmarks of Pramukh Swami. However, what touched me the most was his absolute purity—free of all ego, with his mind fixed only on God. People say the sky’s the limit but I say that Pramukh Swami is the limit. In the same way that the Sun does not belong to any one country or person, Pramukh Swami does not belong to BAPS but to all of us.”

Pharma Conclave 2023

8 Jan. 2023, Sunday, Ahmedabad, India

A special one-day ‘Pharma Conclave’ was organised as a part of the centenary birth celebrations of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj in Ahmedabad, in partnership with Indian Drug Manufacturers’ Association (IDMA) Gujarat State Board.

The conference titled ‘The Niche Growth Strategy’ was led by a panel of prominent speakers, namely Dr. Viranchibhai Shah (National President, IDMA), Dr. Shrenik Shah (Chairman, Gujarat State Board), Dr. Hemant Koshia (Commissioner, Food & Drugs Control Administration (FDCOA), Government of Gujarat), Shri Jayant Kumar (Deputy Drugs Controller, CDSCO), Shri Sumit Agrawal (Secretary, Gujarat State Board), Shri Ketanbhai, Aman Mehta (Director, Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd.), Mrs. Aditi Kare (Managing Director, Indoco Remedies Ltd.) and Dr. Dushyant Patel (Founder Astral Steritech Pvt. Ltd.).

The 44^th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the IDMA was held before the commencement of the Pharma Conclave. Shri Viranchibhai Shah (National President, IDMA) discussed the agenda of the AGM and briefly elaborated on new developments in the Pharma industry.

Dr. Shrenik Shah, (Chairman, Gujarat State Board) in his welcome address said, “The influence of Pramukh Swami Maharaj and BAPS can be measured by the fact that today in Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar we are hosting the biggest conference of IDMA in last 60 years.”

In his enriching inaugural address, Brahmaviharidas Swami, a senior swami of BAPS and project lead for the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, said, “The world we live in is driven by profits which are further driven by production and the need for a product or a service. Sometimes through marketing, a need is manufactured in the minds of consumers. In today’s conference, we should focus on how to complete each other but not how to compete with each other. Pramukh Swami Maharaj emphasised on achieving harmony in work by letting go of the ego. Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar is a prime example of harmony among 80,000 volunteers.”

“In the Ramayana, all the monkeys wrote the name of Bhagwan Shri Ram on the stones and created a water bridge to Sri Lanka; similarly, more than 10 million paver stones were installed by the volunteers in more than 200 acres while chanting the name ‘Swaminarayan.’ Pramukh Swami Maharaj promised no miracles but gave a way for the miracles to work. Today we witness a gigantic cultural wonderland, Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar, spread across 600 acres which is a miracle created with harmony.”

Dr. Hemant Koshia (Commissioner, Food & Drugs Control Administration (FDCOA), in his welcome address, briefly described developments in the pharma industry. Sharing a memorable incident with Pramukh Swami Maharaj, he said, “Many years ago when I was a Joint Commissioner of FDCOA, Gujarat, I had applied for the post of the Drug Controller, NCT Delhi. I met Pramukh Swami Maharaj to seek his blessings for the interview. Pramukh Swami Maharaj advised me not to take the interview and instead serve the State of Gujarat. Following the advice of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, I did not appear for the interview. Today I am standing before this audience as a Commissioner FDCOA, Gujarat.”

Subsequently, Shri Jayant Kumar (Deputy Drugs Controller, CDSCO) said, “Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar and its facilities are an expression of love that the devotees have for Pramukh Swami Maharaj.” He further elaborated on the need for a Drug Regulator, how to build a quality management system in the industry and how quality manufacturing of pharma can be done in Gujarat etc.

In his keynote address, Dr. Viranchibhai Shah (National President, IDMA), said, “As entrepreneurs in the pharmaceutical industry we need to imbibe the lessons of humility and selfless service from the volunteers at Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar. These highly educated volunteers were trained to be de-skilled for their service at the centennial celebrations of Pramukh Swami Maharaj. They keep their ego aside and clean the washrooms, garden the plants and have paved the paver blocks in more than 200 acres at Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar.”

Thereafter, Shri Aman Mehta, (Director, Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd.) shared his insights on how Torrent Pharmaceuticals started as a niche company approximately 50 years ago and progressed.

Mrs. Aditi Kare (Managing Director, Indoco Remedies Ltd.) said, “It has been enlightening for me to sit in the audience and listen to the enriching sessions today. A niche is defined as a small segment. Niche and growth are oxymorons. By sharing success mantras from growing through niche, we are making the niche bigger and adding to the competition.” She further shared her insights on strategic planning for niche and shared her journey of how Indoco Remedies Ltd., a fully integrated research-oriented pharma company went to become a USD 198-million company that employs around 6000 personnel, including over 300 skilled scientists.

Then Dr. Dushyant Patel (Founder Astral Steritech Pvt. Ltd.) said, “BAPS has played an important role in imparting spiritual and moral values among people and has the best management practices. The centennial celebrations of Pramukh Swami Maharaj are a homage to his inspirational life and works. He further discussed how Astral Steritech Pvt. Ltd. has grown to be a high-value organisation through its strategic and conscious decisions to emerge as a global CDMO, promoting and monitoring quality culture, and customer service with business ethics.”

In his insightful concluding session, Gnanvatsaldas Swami, a leading spiritual motivational speaker of BAPS, said, “The massive scale of Pramukh Swami Maharaj Shatabdi Mahotsav is a first of its kind. It is an institution from which to learn the principles of management and aspects of the growth strategy from Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s life, actions and works. One should inculcate inclusiveness and include everyone in the growth of your organisation. While taking an important decision for any BAPS activities, Pramukh Swami Maharaj used to take suggestions from everyone and implement a suggestion if he found that it was better than his own thought. One and a half years ago, when it was decided to celebrate Pramukh Swami Maharaj Shatabdi Mahotsav, this principle from Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s life was applied.”

“One has to keep one’s ego aside and imbibe the virtue of servant leadership in one’s work. On 21 May 1950, when Pramukh Swami Maharaj was ordained the president of BAPS by his Guru Shastriji Maharaj, he exemplified this servant leadership by washing the dishes of devotees who had attended the ceremony. Guided by this principle of servant leadership, Pramukh Swami Maharaj served as president of BAPS for 65 years without any controversy. The thought of servant leadership is the foundation of the selfless service of 80,000 volunteers in Pramukh Swami Maharaj Shatabdi Mahotsav.”

“We should strive to work with immense hard work and ethics. In the 45 years of his spiritual leadership, Pramukh Swami Maharaj travelled to more than 50 countries, sanctified 250,000 homes, replied to 750,000 letters, created 1,300 societal institutions (temples, hospitals, schools, hostels, etc.), and initiated 1,000 sadhus. Most of the success of any business depends on human relations. Pramukh Swami Maharaj has touched the lives of every person he met. He personally knew the names and faces of more than 25,000 people; all the 1,100 swamis initiated by him have many personal memories with Pramukh Swami Maharaj.”

Today’s event is the thirteenth in a series of 14 such conferences for professionals of various fields, including accountants, lawyers, industrialists, technocrats and entrepreneurs. It is a testament to the progressive mindset of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, whose work and teachings touched people from all walks of life, to ensure the holistic success and happiness of everyone in society.

Photo Gallery

BAPS North America Women’s Wing Program “You made my life blissful”

7 Jan. 2023, Saturday, Ahmedabad, India

On 7 January 2023, a special programme was organized by BAPS North America Women’s Wing at the Women’s Empowerment Hall in Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar where women from around the United States and Canada paid tribute to Pramukh Swami Maharaj with a dazzling cultural programme on the theme, “You made my life blissful.”

These programs consisted of presentations of gratitude and devotion towards Pramukh Swami Maharaj through dances, dramas, musical and theatrical performances, the singing of prayers, and video testimonials of the devotees. A gripping documentary highlighted the role of women in creating Akshardham in Robbinsville, New Jersey and how that opportunity enhanced their personality.

Ms. Meera Patel, Former US Marine from Los Angeles said, “I had served as a US Marine in Afghanistan. Today, I am serving as an Ayurvedic physician. My faith in Pramukh Swami Maharaj gives me confidence in myself. While volunteering in Robbinsville Akshardham I have learned the importance of serving society. Taking inspiration from my Guru, I too am driven by the spirit of service. My life goal is to serve people and I am constantly trying to find new ways to empower them, physically, mentally and spiritually.”

Ms. Drasti Patel of New Jersey, recounting how Pramukh Swami Maharaj guided her said, “I am volunteering as a Core Lead at the Robbinsville Akshardham site. I was an introvert by nature, and I had never held a leadership position before. But I have always believed that Pramukh Swami Maharaj is with me, continuously giving me the strength I need to accomplish any task. This conviction provided me with the confidence, clarity and commitment I required to lead others. I am amazed at the person I have become today. People around me have also observed how much I have evolved and matured into a more self-assured person.”

Bhumika Joshi, Defence Attorney from New York said, “I am so grateful for the opportunity to volunteer at Akshardham North America during its construction because it has given me the confidence to overcome all the challenges that I have to face in my life.”

Shatabdi Patel, Neurologist from Miami expressed, “Pramukh Swami Maharaj gave me strength to look after my entire family singlehandedly while my husband is volunteering in construction of Akshardham in Robbinsville.”

BAPS North America Women’s Wing volunteers expressed their gratitude towards Pramukh Swami Maharaj for his role in their lives as a loving mother, a caring father, an enlightening teacher and an encouraging friend.

Usha Sutariya of Long Island, New York, shared her story of personal crisis when her husband abandoned her while she was 7 months pregnant. She said, “When my education, my job, my money were of no use, I turned to God. I was fortunate enough to find a guru like Pramukh Swami Maharaj.”

She wrote a letter to Pramukh Swami Maharaj. She narrated how the letter from him changed her life “He uplifted my life, gave me strength and hope when I was unconsciously contemplating committing suicide. I was completely shattered, but Pramukh Swami Maharaj understood me and informed me to not act against the codes of conduct given in Shikshapatri, thus steering me away from the path of committing suicide. He transformed my life. When I needed him the most, he was there for me. He saved me and my child.”

On this occasion Ms. Beena Handa, Founder and Director-Poiesis Achievement Foundation, Ms. Anar Patel, Social worker & Entrepreneur, and Ms. Geeta Goradiya, Managing Director at Jewel, Consumer Care, Vadodara were felicitated in the Women’s Empowerment Exhibition Hall.

Beenaben Handa, Founder and Director of Poiesis Achievement Foundation, reflected upon the effectiveness of Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s concept of Ghar Sabha (family home assembly). She said, “Ghar Sabha is where the entire family meets every evening and discusses spiritual and family issues. In this way, every family member gets to express their thoughts, encouraging family unity. It is a beautiful concept, which if practiced by all, will drastically improve women’s lives and provide them opportunities to progress.”

Remarking on women’s role in creating and managing Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar, she said, “We must take an example from Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar, where women are involved in so many aspects of its management. These volunteer opportunities have increased participants’ self-confidence and their determination to contribute. Moreover, everyone who sees this is similarly inspired. Pramukh Swami Maharaj has taught love that transcends all materialistic attributes.”

Ms. Anar Patel, Social worker and entrepreneur, paid tribute to Pramukh Swami Maharaj, saying, “As a social worker, I have closely observed Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s life and have learned many values from him. Works that are devoid of values cannot last. I work with handicrafts, and the beautiful hand gestures of Pramukh Swami Maharaj displayed throughout the Nagar reflect his deep devotion towards God.”

She further expressed her appreciation for the volunteers in the Nagar, saying, “I have observed that all BAPS volunteers serve everyone with sheer love. These are our true values and this is our religion. If people take even this one value with them from this celebration, their life will become blissful. Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s simplicity and ease are heart-touching and I find the same in the swamis of BAPS. Just as nature blossoms in the spring, values blossom in the presence of a true sant.”

Place: Ahmedabad, India

Environmental Conservation Seminar

Pramukh Swami Maharaj Shatabdi Mahotsav: Bhagwati Diksha Samaroh

Women’s Day 2: Celebrating Women Empowerment

Leadership Symposium for Amusement Park Owners

Africani Amar Anjali: BAPS Africa Day

BAPS Africa Women’s Wing Program ‘Katha Kahu Ek Yug Purush Ni’

BAPS UK and Europe Women’s Wing Programme ‘Vahetu Jivan Tamaru’

In His Own Words: BAPS UK and Europe Day

Pharma Conclave 2023

BAPS North America Women’s Wing Program “You made my life blissful”

15 Dec.

-

15 Jan.

Nagar brochure

Environmental Conservation Seminar

Related News

Pramukh Swami Maharaj Shatabdi Mahotsav: Bhagwati Diksha Samaroh

Related News

Women’s Day 2: Celebrating Women Empowerment

Related News

Leadership Symposium for Amusement Park Owners

Related News

Africani Amar Anjali: BAPS Africa Day

Related News

BAPS Africa Women’s Wing Program ‘Katha Kahu Ek Yug Purush Ni’

Related News

BAPS UK and Europe Women’s Wing Programme ‘Vahetu Jivan Tamaru’

Related News

In His Own Words: BAPS UK and Europe Day

Related News

Pharma Conclave 2023

Related News

BAPS North America Women’s Wing Program “You made my life blissful”

Related News