Ahmedabad, India – Page 4

Leader 2030 – Role of HR

4 Jan. 2023, Wednesday, Ahmedabad, India

More than 1250 CEOs, Directors, Managing Directors, General Managers and HR Managers of around 600 companies from all over India gathered on 4 January 2023 for a special one-day conference at Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar in Ahmedabad.

Titled ‘Leader 2030: Role of HR’, the conference was organised by the National Human Resource Development Network, Ahmedabad Chapter (NHRDN-Ahmedabad) in partnership with BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS).

Some of the prominent speakers at the conference included Mayur Patel (President, NHRDN-Ahmedabad), Dr. T.V. Rao (Chairman of TVRLS, Ex-Professor IIM(A)), Ajay Bhatt, Rajeev Dubey (Chairman, Mahindra Insurance Brokers, Mahindra Steel Service Centre, Mahindra First Choice Wheels), Krish Shankar (EVP & Group HR Head, Infosys), Ms. Ratna Joshi (Customer Excellence Academy, Tata Motors), Sandeep Tyagi (Head-HR, Uflex Chemicals), Dr. Rajeshwari Narendran (Director, NTPC School of Business), and Rajesh Vaidya (CHRO & Sustainability Head, Silox India).

In his inspiring inaugural address, Brahmaviharidas Swami, a senior swami of BAPS, said, “Humans are proficient in creating as well as disobeying laws. The role of HR is challenging as they have to redress simple issues of people with complex minds. Pramukh Swami Maharaj selflessly catered to the minutest needs of everyone. Whether meeting political statesmen of the world or a devotee from a remote village of India, Pramukh Swami Maharaj treated everyone equally and respectfully. Pramukh Swami Maharaj worked not from top downwards but from bottom upwards.

“The role of HR is not about changing rules, but to make the employees happy. We often rebuke people when we are not in a good frame of mind and are then regretful. The Bhagavad Gita guides us on stabilising the mind. Pramukh Swami Maharaj used to say, ‘If your spirit is stable, your heart is pure and you possess deep faith in your heart, there is nothing that you cannot accomplish.’ The sheer volunteerism of BAPS is a result of Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s unconditional care towards the devotees. BAPS has been at the forefront of selflessly serving society at times of natural calamities such as the 1979 Dam Disaster in Morbi, 1999 Cyclone in Odisha, 2001 Gujarat Earthquake, South Asian Tsunami in 2004-05, and even in evacuating refugees during the Russia-Ukraine war in 2022.

“Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar, which has been created by the dedication and devotion of 80,000 selfless volunteers, is an exemplar of the virtues espoused by Pramukh Swami Maharaj. The job of HR heads is not only about quantity or quality, but it is also to teach the company and the world to be kind and compassionate. Doing this will help solve many problems in life.”

President of NHRDN-Ahmedabad Mayur Patel shared in his welcome address, “Pramukh Swami Maharaj emphasized the importance of serving together with cooperation and unity. These values are reflected in Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar where the volunteers serve with devotion, dedication and selflessness. Pramukh Swami Maharaj lived the motto ‘In the joy of others lies our own.’ This ethical and spiritual leadership combined with development can lead us to peace and prosperity.”

Subsequently, Dr. T.V. Rao, Chairman of TVRLS and former professor at IIM(A), delivered a lecture on ‘Building Leadership Capital in Everyone: Role of HR’, in which he said, “The 600 acres where the magnanimous Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar has been created exhibits a beautiful ambience and is smoothly managed. Such an enriching conference at this complex holds historical value. Having started to read Transcendence: My Spiritual Experiences with Pramukh Swami by Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, I have been left awe-inspired by Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s life. I have learnt that one needs to sanctify oneself in order to sanctify society. Pramukh Swami Maharaj advised Dr. Kalam to add ‘faith in God’ as a 6th pillar of his vision of 2020. I advocate adding spirituality in the role of HR. 80% of a company’s worth is measured in the form of intangible aspects. Dr. Kalam often consulted Pramukh Swami Maharaj for his life decisions. At the end of his term as president, Pramukh Swami Maharaj asked him to serve society. Everyone present in this conference should definitely read Transcendence and take inspiration from Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s life and teachings. It will help us to be kind to people and focus on solving their problems.

“HR is not merely a job; it is a divine calling to serve fellow humans. Pramukh Swami Maharaj has continued the spirit of selfless service that Bhagwan Swaminarayan started more than two centuries ago. If BAPS can smoothly accommodate and serve lakhs of visitors at Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar for 30 days continuously, it is possible for every HR professional to treat every person as divine.”

Ajay Bhatt shared his insights on the challenges and opportunities for the leaders of 2030 and beyond. He elaborated upon how a shifting economy, resource scarcity, technology outbreak and changing demographics will impact society in the future. He further spoke on how HR professionals can address such challenges on a micro level by also integrating spirituality into corporate and global practices.

Thereafter, Rajeev Dubey, Chairman of Mahindra Insurance Brokers, Mahindra Steel Service Centre, and Mahindra First Choice Wheels, spoke on ‘Creating Tomorrow’s Leaders: The 3 Plus 5’. He said, “One should never stay away from the path of truth, prayer and service, but should interact with the communities, especially the ones at the bottom of the pyramid and create products and services to cater to their needs. As leaders, it is crucial from both modern and philosophical points of view to interact with the community and learn how to influence without authority.”

Mr. Krish Shankar (EVP & Group HR Head, Infosys), spoke on ‘Reinventing HR for tomorrow’ and said “Creating a spirit of volunteerism that Brahmaviharidas Swami highlighted in his enriching talk is the essence of HR. The biggest problem in the present world is psychological health. The duty of HR is to harness talent, culture and reputation among its stakeholders. To achieve this we need to be architects of creating an inclusive organisation. We need to learn the spirit of inclusiveness from BAPS. HR should be re-invented through 6 key shifts i.e. constant learning, opportunities to reinvent careers, inclusivity, harnessing culture, entrepreneurial contracts, using technology to assist people.”

Sandeep Tyagi, Head-HR of Uflex Chemicals spoke on ‘Digital Transformation through Growth Mindset.’ He said, “Intelligence can be developed through a ‘growth mindset’. Such a person embraces challenges and is persistent during setbacks. The best thing we can do for the world is to make the best of ourselves and shift from Intelligence Quotient to Emotional Quotient. We should strive to achieve awareness in our life and be resilient during tough times.”

An interesting panel discussion followed on ‘How would leaders of 2030 be different from today?’ It was conducted by Dr. Rajeshwari Narendran, Director of NTPC School of Business, Rajesh Vaidya, CHRO & Sustainability Head of Silox India, and Ms. Ratna Joshi of Customer Excellence Academy, Tata Motors and moderated by Gautam Gothi, Leadership Facilitator at Brahma HR Consultants. The panellists spoke on the qualities required by future leaders and shared insights on various subjects such as the values of sustainability and universal inclusiveness in ancient Hindu scriptures, how to foster inclusivity, and ensuring the mental well-being of people. When asked who were the role models of the panellists, Rajesh Vaidya shared, “His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj is the perfect role model.”

Thereafter, Gnanvatsaldas Swami, a leading spiritual motivational speaker of BAPS, led an inspiring session on the topic of ‘A Humane Approach with Humans’. He shares, “BAPS is a non-government organisation (NGOs) having consultative status at the United Nations Economic and Social Council. Any NGO survives and thrives on Human Resources. A Harvard study says that 90% of your business depends on people relationships. Developing good human relations is an essential facet of life and an art that everyone needs to master. Every human deserves to be treated with dignity. These values are not only espoused in BAPS; they were practised by Pramukh Swami Maharaj, which inspired others to also imbibe them. Yogiji Maharaj addressed even a postman with respect. We should develop empathy not only for our organization’s employees, but also for our family members and surroundings. Pramukh Swami Maharaj personally guided and has touched more than 4 million people. World-renowned tennis player Leander Paes, upon seeing the 30-ft tall statue of Pramukh Swami Maharaj at Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar, said, “I have never met Pramukh Swami Maharaj, but seeing his eyes, I can see how he had compassion for everyone he met.”

“This millennium is about developing a spiritual quotient (SQ). We have the capacity to develop intellectual quotient (IQ) and emotional quotient (EQ). We can see the application of spiritual quotient from the life of Pramukh Swami Maharaj. When Bill Clinton, Former President of the United States, met Pramukh Swami Maharaj, he observed, ‘I have not seen such expressive eyes full of integrity.’ Along with developing our professional skills, we should also strive to make ourselves more spiritually proficient.”

The final session was concluded by Yogi Trivedi of Columbia University, New York, and author of In Love, At Ease: Everyday Spirituality with Pramukh Swami, a new book recently published by Penguin Random House India. In his remarks, he said, “Pramukh Swami Maharaj was a master Human Resource Manager. He knew the right thing to say at the right time. It was his accessible spirituality which made everyone feel connected with him. Pramukh Swami Maharaj selflessly loved and served everyone. Pramukh Swami Maharaj saw divinity in his surroundings and saw God in everyone. He loved and served everyone beyond the existing conventions of caste, creed, race and ethnicity.”

Today’s event is the tenth in a series of 14 such conferences for professionals of various fields, including doctors, 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.

Importance of Satsang: Role of Guru

4 Jan. 2023, Wednesday, Ahmedabad, India

Lokpal member of India and former High Court Chief Justice as well as a Presidential award-winning social activist shared insights on the importance of Satsang and the guru for individual and societal development in a seminar organised by the BAPS Women’s Wing at the Women’s Empowerment Hall in Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar on 4 January 2023.

Honourable Justice Abhilasha Kumari, Judicial Member of the Lokpal Committee of India, first woman Chief Justice of Manipur High Court and former Justice of Gujarat High Court shared her insights on the necessity of satsang and the guru for one’s holistic development. She said, “Pramukh Swami Maharaj was an ideal guru, so every word he said was satsang.

“Although a human birth provides the opportunity for the soul’s ultimate goal of eternal liberation, we get so engrossed in our daily business that we forget we are the soul and not the body. Satsang means an association with the eternal Truth, which are God and the Aksharbrahman Guru, who foster our spirituality and keep us away from bad company.”

Elaborating on the benefits of satsang she said, “Shankaracharya said that satsang makes one fearless and helps one realise the ultimate insignificance of worldly affairs. Only through the grace of God does one obtain this purifying satsang. Even a momentary engagement with satsang cultivates our virtues and eradicates all our faults. Mahant Swami Maharaj has said that we must do satsang with this rare human body for the liberation of our soul. The cultivation of satsang values has transformed people from dacoits to saints.”

“The greatest benefit of satsang is recognising the manifest form of the God-realised Guru who teaches us spirituality. The guru is a shield that protects us from the false understanding that we are this body. The Guru is also a sword that cuts through ignorance by providing true spiritual knowledge. One must develop devotion and loyalty to such a Guru to attain the true benefit of satsang.”

“While the guru may appear engrossed in manifold activities, he remains forever concentrated on kindness and helping humanity. We must put our trust in a guru who is gunatit – not affected by worldly matters. In the Mahabharata, Arjuna put his faith in Krishna Bhagwan and accepted him as his Guru. Likewise, Duryodhan accepted Shakuni Mama as his Guru. But the results were different – Lord Krishna led Arjuna to the right path. Thus, having a true Guru is necessary to differentiate between truth and falsity. We are fortunate we have found the true guru in Pramukh Swami Maharaj and Mahant Swami Maharaj, and now we should follow his guidance to reach our final aim.”

Mrs. Janki Vasant, Founder and Managing Trustee of Samvedana and winner of the Nari Shakti Puraskar from the Government of India shared her experience of being injured during the Pan Am flight 73 hijacking in 1986, explaining how it helped her realise that our worldly activities are ultimately insignificant and one must “realise that one’s power and strength lies within, which is where we can find our anchor.”

Sharing her experience of Pramukh Swami Maharaj as an ideal guru who had inspired countless people to work for societal and spiritual welfare, she said, “This beautiful experience at Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar has rendered me speechless. BAPS’s works are longstanding and worldwide. Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s compassion during the Gujarat earthquake, and the relief works undertaken by BAPS are marvellous and unforgettable.”

“BAPS serves people by transforming broken families into harmonious ones, helping people give up addictions, and working for women’s empowerment. It is because of organisations like BAPS that people can find the anchor and strength within themselves. Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s work is even more necessary in today’s time.”

“This century is very important for women as they have been empowered in ways that they were not previously. To be able to deploy this education and opportunity in the right manner, women need to understand the importance of self-discipline as well as self-love. Through organisations like BAPS where everyone comes together with satsang, we can strengthen our values.”

Following this, BAPS women’s wing volunteer Pinkleben Lakhani shared her insights on Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s socially beneficial work of creating temples. She said, “Temples, scriptures and saints are the pillars of Hindu culture. Temples grant us eternal peace and calmness because they are the home of God. Caring for our peace of mind, Pramukh Swami Maharaj was a visionary who created over 1,100 temples and 2 Akshardham mandirs for which he was globally acclaimed.”

“Just as we need schools despite the existence of books, similarly we need mandirs in addition to the scriptures that hold our sacred wisdom. Mandirs have helped people give up addictions and vices, benefiting countless families socially and economically as well as spiritually. Mandirs have also helped society in times of crisis like during the Ukraine war, Gujarat earthquake, South India’s tsunami and floods in Surat. Wherever we or our children go, we have a home in the mandirs with programmes for children, youth and women that Pramukh Swami Maharaj created for us around the world. Pramukh Swami Maharaj was not merely a constructor of stone temples but he also built societies of people as pure as temples and inspired many to walk on this path.”

Virtue of Refrain

3 Jan. 2023, Tuesday, Ahmedabad, India

Leading women educators shared their insights on women’s role in preserving culture as a part of the daily programme organised by the BAPS Women’s Wing at the Women’s Empowerment Hall in Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar on 3 January 2023.

Prof. Indira Parikh, Founder and Former President of FLAME University, Pune and Former Professor and Dean at IIM-Ahmedabad, shared her thoughts on the distinctiveness of Indian culture saying, “Our ancient culture and rich values are unparalleled. For instance, Indians were well-versed in management since they managed gigantic forts and constructed large, magnificent temples.

Commenting on women’s role in preserving our traditions and culture, she said, “Today, we see many women still wearing our traditional attire – they are making an effort to preserve our culture. I too, always wear a sari irrespective of the country I am visiting for business or leisure. People around me have not only accepted it but have also appreciated it. It helps in preserving our culture. Only when we respect our own culture and country, will others respect them as well.”

Lauding Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s contributions to our culture, she said, “Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s creations like temples, schools, hospitals, and festival celebrations generate respect for our culture and our women. I am overwhelmed with pride for our culture when I look around Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar today. We should be immensely grateful to Pramukh Swami Maharaj. Because of his efforts, our culture is being revived in its true form.”

Ms. Ramila Patel, Chairman Education Committee, Sabarkantha commented, “Pramukh Swami Maharaj Centennial Celebration is a priceless celebration. Especially, the importance that is given to women empowerment is a remarkable thing. Today women are taking the lead on many fronts. I feel very fortunate to get this opportunity of visiting the Nagar.”

BAPS Women’s Wing volunteer, Ms. Dayaben Ravariya, speaking about the virtue of good character in Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s life, observed that “Pramukh Swami Maharaj often said, ‘When wealth is lost nothing is lost. When health is lost, something is lost. But when the character is lost, everything is lost.’

Highlighting the value of character and righteousness that set people apart, she said, “Lord Swaminarayan once said that an individual’s good character and actions speak volumes. Pramukh Swami Maharaj taught people to follow five fundamental vows including refraining from meat, alcohol, adultery, theft, and impurity. He not only preached this but worked tirelessly for it. He organized de-addiction drives to help people live addiction-free lives. The exhibition – ‘Chalo tod de ye Bandhan (Break-free from the attachment)’ in Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar depicts the detrimental impact of having vices and has motivated innumerable spectators to give up their additions.”

“Pramukh Swami Maharaj firmly followed the five vows for swamis, including the vow of celibacy. With his firmness in obeying these vows, he set an example for society.” She recounted that , “Jain Acharya Pushparaj Muni once said, ‘What matters to us is Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s behaviour; not the God he worships. It is believed that the Gods are delighted if someone practices celibacy for even one day. Pramukh Swami Maharaj has always upheld the vow of celibacy. I would put him in the forefront of all the holy seers who keep this commitment.’

She concluded by saying, “Every corner of the Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar inspires people to lead a life with values and morals. There is a famous quote ‘Only a man of character (Pramukh Swami Maharaj) is capable of creating a society of character’. Mahant Swami Maharaj is carrying forward his work through such events and activities.”

The Role and Contribution of Sages and Saints in the History of India

3-4 January 2023, Ahmedabad, India

On the occasion of Pramukh Swami Maharaj centenary celebrations, an international conference was organized on “The Role and Contribution of Sages and Saints in the History of India” in Ahmedabad. The conference was organized by the BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute, New Delhi, in collaboration with the Indian Council of Historical Research, New Delhi. Throughout the first day of the two-day conference, scholars and students from around the world presented their original research and perspectives and participated in meaningful discussions.

The conference commenced with the chanting of Vedic hymns by Pujya Madhurvadandas Swami. Thereafter, Prof. Arvind Jamkhedkar, the former Vice-Chancellor of Deccan College, Prof. R. C. Sinha, the former Chairman of the Indian Council of Philosophical Research, Prof. Jatashankar Tiwari, a former Professor and Head of Department at Allahabad University, and Prof. Makrand Mehta, the former President of the Indian History Congress (Modern India), were welcomed by Dr. Jyotindra Dave, the Director of the BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute, New Delhi. These distinguished guests, along with Mahamahopadhyay Bhadreshdas Swami, Brahmaviharidas Swami, and Dr. Paramtattvadas Swami, performed the deep pragatya to inaugurate the conference.

The Inaugural Session

The inaugural session commenced with the welcome address of Mahamahopadhyay Bhadreshdas Swami. He highlighted how the contribution of swamis in creating, shaping, and writing history was significant because their insights and practices originated from their engagement with the ground reality. Thereafter, Brahmviharidas Swami gave the inaugural address in which he introduced the purpose of this conference as a bridge between the binaries of the temporary and the permanent. He explained how swamis are appropriate guides for history because they promote freedom and liberation. Prof. Arvind Jamkhedkar then compared different schools of Hinduism and explained how Indian thought continues to synthesize diverse ideas and practices. In the concluding address of this session, Dr. Paramtattvadas Swami explained how the Swaminarayan paramhansas possessed an awareness of history as reflected in their description of the historical context at the beginning of all 273 Vachanamruts—the teachings delivered by Bhagwan Swaminarayan. He further emphasized how the Swaminarayan tradition represents an inextricable link between religion and history.

The Plenary Session

Thereafter, various scholars delivered their presentations in the plenary session. Prof. R. C. Sinha highlighted the contribution of Pramukh Swami Maharaj in considering the significance of the histories of the marginalized. He argued that the works of swamis like Pramukh Swami Maharaj allow us to draw attention to the cultural dimensions of subaltern history. Prof. Jatashankar Tiwari then identified compassion and empathy as the key characteristics of swamis based on Tulsidas’ Ramcharitmanas and elaborated on Pramukh Swami Maharaj as a living embodiment of such qualities. Thereafter, Prof. Makrand Mehta positioned Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s contributions to society within the context of the Swaminarayan tradition established by Sahajanand Swami (Bhagwan Swaminarayan). He identified Sahajanand Swami as “the last of the saints of ancient and medieval India and the first saint of modern India.” Dr. Aksharanand Swami then informed delegates about the principles and practices of the Swaminarayan sant tradition through a case study of the Sant Talim Kendra at Sarangpur, Gujarat. He added how Pramukh Swami Maharaj “redefined the dichotomy between pravrutti and nivrutti” and created a training center that continues to prepare and inspire swamis to serve society. Dr. Balmukund Pandey concluded the session by evaluating the significance of the Indian perspective in examining Indian history.

The Presentation Sessions

The plenary session was followed by parallel sessions in which various scholars and experts presented original research. One of these sessions was chaired by Dr. Hamsa Stainton, an Associate Professor at McGill University. He commenced the session with his presentation on how the Sanskrit poetry in Tulsidas’ Ramcharitmanas represents a continuity from the Valmiki Ramayana. He further emphasized the need to move beyond the dichotomy of classical and elitist Sanskrit and the vernacular and widely prevalent Hindi-Awadhi. He concluded by exploring the variety of language used in the literature of the Swaminarayan tradition. In the next presentation, Dr. Paramtattvadas Swami examined Bhagwan Swaminarayan’s teaching of dasatva by studying the life of Pramukh Swami Maharaj. He clarified that humility originates from inner spiritual strength rather than weakness and that the relationship between humility and power needs to be understood in parallel rather than contradictory terms. Dr. Dalpat Rajpurohit, an Assistant Professor at the University of Texas, Austin, then explored the emergence of the Dadupanthi Sampraday within the broader socio-cultural processes of the bhakti tradition. He further emphasized how Sampraday, though born in Rajasthan, expanded to Gujarat and other regions. He also highlighted the theological profundity of the sampraday’s literature and its apparent similarities with the poetry of Brahmanand Swami. He concluded by discussing the significance of yoga in contextualizing the literary content of bhakti poetry. Thereafter, Dr. Arun Brahmbhatt presented on the centrality of sadhuta in the scholastic works of the Swaminarayan tradition. Dr. Gyanananddas Swami then highlighted the role of Pramukh Swami Maharaj in the continued relevance and lived practices of the Akshar-Purushottam Darshan—the dārśanic position revealed by Bhagwan Swaminarayan. Shri Kirtan Patel then presented the contributions of Shastriji Maharaj in cultivating a bhakti ethic amongst contemporary rationalists. Thereafter, Dr. Sabita Kumari examined the poetry of Mirabai through the perspective of madhurya bhava. Prof. Sadanand Shahi, the Vice-Chancellor of the Shankaracharya Professional University, then explored how swamis engaged and empowered all members of society. In particular, he highlighted their sharing of a cosmopolitan vision, a vernacular expression, and a common ethic of service.

An alternative parallel session was chaired by Dr. Jyotindra Dave. Throughout this session, papers were presented by Dr. Vishvjit Kava, Dr. Bharat Diyora, Shri Sitakanta Mishra, Shri Sonam Soni, Shri Daxa Tundiya, Shri Sunita Chalvariya, Shri Akshay Modi, Shri Oshin Bamb, and Shri Twinkal Gala. Their papers reflected the role of some of the lesser-known Indian saints in sectors of health, education, social and moral reform.

The Presentation Sessions

The second day of the conference began with various scholars presenting their original research. Prof. Sondra Hausner, a Professor of the Anthropology of Religion at the University of Oxford, pointed out in her presentation that “principal examples of renunciation and social work are found thriving in the Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar.” She stressed on the role of renunciation, and argued how it is used by practitioners “to transcend earthly limitations in a worldly body. The urge for liberation is foundational to the renunciation of the ascetic.” Thereafter, Prof. William Pinch, a Professor of History and Environmental Studies at Wesleyan University, compared two historical events during the late eighteenth century: the renunciations by Sahajanand Swami and Himmat Bahadur in northern India, through the lens of Sankhya and Yoga. Prof. Shonaleeka Kaul, an Associate Professor in the Centre for Historical Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University, then elaborated on the bhakti traditions of early Kashmir. A presentation was then given by Prof. Bhakti Mamtora, an Assistant Professor of South Asian Studies at the College of Wooster. She analyzed “the conceptions of the self and practices for self-cultivation in the Swamini Vato, a collection of oral teachings given by Gunatitanand Swami” (the spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan). She also elaborated on the principle of agency in devotional traditions. Thereafter, Shri Mukti Patel, a graduate student at the University of Chicago, compared the poetic compositions of Narsimha Mehta and Muktanand Swami. Shri Bhavi Bhagat, a graduate student at Harvard University, then provided a historical context of the opium trade in colonial India and emphasized the role of de-addiction campaigns initiated by BAPS. Finally, Dr. Shalin Jain, a Professor at the University of Delhi, highlighted the socio-cultural relations fostered between the Jain ascetic Harivijay Suri and the Mughal Emperor Akbar.

In the next session, Shri Abhijit Jogi focused on the process of cultural construction through history and how India’s past must be examined for points of cultural change. Shri Hershini Soneji, a graduate student at the University of Cambridge, then elaborated on verbal testimony and its importance in the Swaminarayan-siddhanta-sudha, a Sanskrit text describing the philosophical positions of the Akshar-Purushottam Darshan. Thereafter, Shri Vandan Gor, a research scholar at the Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, outlined the concept of ahimsa (non-violence) as historically understood in the Swaminarayan tradition. He also explained how internalizing ahimsa is part of a larger devotional goal in the tradition. Shri Tushar Shah, a Visiting Lecturer at the University of Roehampton and a Doctoral Candidate at the University of Cambridge, then touched upon aspects of Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s ecumenism and his role in bringing together communities and religious leaders. Finally, Shri Anchit Jain, a graduate student at the University of Delhi, emphasized the role of “Bhagwan Swaminarayan and his spiritual successors in the evolution of festivals like Jal-Jhilani” and how these festivals have become global events.

A parallel session was chaired by Dr. Shalin Jain. Dr. Vinod Kumar Singh, an Assistant Professor in the Department of English at the University of Delhi, began the session by presenting his work on Tulasi Ramayana. He showed how “Tulsi employed literature to educate people and resisted cultural disintegration in his own time.” Thereafter, Dr. Prem Singh, an Assistant Professor at Jaynarayan Vyas Vidhyalaya at Jodhpur, elaborated on the Niranjani Sampradaya in Rajasthan and elucidated how nirgun bhakti traditions co-opted the message of Vedanta within bhakti traditions. Dr. Bharat Rathod, an Assistant Professor at Government Arts and Commerce College in Jaffarabad, then focused on the life, work, and message of guru Jagjivan Bapu in the Saurashtra regions of Gujarat. Shri Jay Pandya, a Doctoral Candidate at the University of Sydney, then explored “the role that saints and sages, like Pramukh Swami Maharaj, have played in the development of democracy in India. He highlighted how they have promoted democratic participation and contributed to discourses on secularism.” Thereafter, Shri Ishan Modi, a research scholar at Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, presented on the works of Nishkulanand Swami, a disciple of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, and demonstrated how his works provide “critical resources to understand the history of the Sampradaya.” In a similar vein, Shri Sahaj Parikh, a graduate student at the University of California in Santa Barbara, presented on the poetic compositions of Brahmanand Swami and his corpus of works “in consolidating and disseminating the religious and secular teachings of Swaminarayan.”

Concluding Session

The conference’s final session commenced with an address by Dr. Om Jee Upadhyay, the Director of Research and Administration at the Indian Council of Historical Research. He recognized the need for historians “to reconnect with our past, address the present, and contribute to the future.” The conference concluded with the address of Prof. Arvind Jamkhedkar, who recognized that “adaptation is required for historical change and to address the contemporary socio-cultural and religious contexts in rewriting history.” Dr. Jyotindra Dave then expressed his gratitude to all the scholars and students who contributed to the conference, making it a shared platform that facilitated meaningful interactions between different individuals, communities, and worldviews.

Day 2 – 4 Jan 2023 (17)

Day 1 – 3 Jan 2023 (30)

Youth Day: Celebrating the Power of Youth

3 Jan. 2023, Tuesday, Ahmedabad, India

Before an audience of tens of thousands gathered to commemorate ‘Youth Day: Celebrating the Power of Youth’ at Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar on 3 January 2023, the BAPS Youth Wing presented an engaging programme of inspirational dramas, devotional songs, videos and speeches that paid tribute to Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s selfless love and tireless efforts for the moral, spiritual, social and academic development of hundreds of thousands of youths around the world.

His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj and dignitaries also paid tribute to Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s visionary leadership in channelling the power of hundreds of thousands of youths worldwide towards socially constructive and spiritually uplifting activities.

Since Yogiji Maharaj formally established BAPS youth activities in 1952, the love and personal efforts of our gurus have inspired hundreds of thousands of youths to live moral and spiritual lives. Today, this immense youth energy is visible in the great force of volunteers who are enthusiastically serving in the various aspects of Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar.

Evening Assembly

The evening assembly began at 4.45pm, in which youths presented various activities undertaken by them worldwide through videos, dramas and speeches. They also shared personal testimonies of how Pramukh Swami Maharaj had patiently moulded their lives providing guidance, solace and divine love at critical junctures.

Vivekmunidas Swami of BAPS spoke about Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s contribution to global youth development. He said, “Pramukh Swami Maharaj inspired youths from across India and the world to serve selflessly, not only in times of crisis and natural disaster but also for improving all aspects of society. Hundreds of thousands of youths have enthusiastically participated in constructive initiatives, such as youth conventions, talent development programmes, academic seminars, grand festivals, and other social initiatives.

“Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s vision of creating a holistic and well-rounded young generation was given a further boost through the BAPS Youth Development Centres (Yuva Talim Kendra) that provide a months-long course of holistic development. Today, Mahant Swami Maharaj’s inspiration of youths can be seen in the selfless service and dynamism of the 80,000 volunteers at Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar.”

Speaking about Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s inspiration of youths, scriptural orator Jignesh Dada said, “Many would flock to celebrate a person’s life in their presence, but when I witness hundreds of thousands of people flocking here daily to celebrate Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s pious life, it is conclusive proof that his divine consciousness is present here. We should applaud all the swamis, who like far-sighted sages of ancient India, have created this divine, blissful place that inspires us to strive to improve ourselves. If we implement just one lesson from this festival, our life will be transformed. Youths who are addiction-free and striving to help others have the power to change the entire world.”

Head of BAPS Youth Activities, Yagnapriyadas Swami, said, “Children and youths yearn for love, and Pramukh Swami Maharaj has gifted pure, divine love to them. He fulfilled all their wishes, offered comfort, and showered immense love upon youths. Pramukh Swami Maharaj not only recognized and validated their affection and feelings, but he also forgave youths for their mistakes and guided them on the right path. As a result of this affection, youths have confidently navigated through difficulties, adopted religious observances, and cultivated values like integrity. Today, his love has inspired countless highly educated and professionally qualified youths serving in this Nagar.”

A video of Pramukh Swami Maharaj addressing youths was shown in which he said, “Typically, youths crave parties and are averse to spiritual assemblies, but you have all come here inspired by Yogiji Maharaj, who had declared, ‘Youths are my heart.’ Keeping youths at such an important place as his heart, we can see the immense love and compassion that Yogiji Maharaj has showered upon youths. As Yogiji Maharaj’s heart, youths must do good and refrain from bad habits and activities so that his heart is well protected. If we do what Yogiji Maharaj likes, he will be pleased with us.”

Managing Director of Torrent Power Jinalbhai Mehta said, “Pramukh Swami Maharaj was a divine person who inspired countless cultural, social and spiritual initiatives, providing comfort and care to millions. My family and I had often received his blessings, including in times of personal calamity. Pramukh Swami Maharaj has transformed the lives of spiritual seekers, leaders and global personalities by traversing tirelessly to innumerable cities, villages and countries. He has performed home visits inspiring over 4 million people to lead an addiction-free life. Today, I am overwhelmed by visiting this festival, inspired by the vision of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj. Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar is truly a spectacle beyond compare. Pramukh Swami Maharaj touched the lives of countless souls with the light of faith and devotion.”

Member of Parliament Lok Sabha and President of Bhartiya Jana Yuva Morcha Tejasvi Surya said, “We are celebrating the centenary of a great soul like Pramukh Swami Maharaj because he has achieved more in one lifetime than what we can dream of achieving in a hundred lifetimes. Thus, as young Indians, we have come here to draw inspiration from his divine life and resolve to walk the path he has shown us. The Upanishads tell us that immortality is obtained not through meaningless action, public acclaim or amassed wealth, but only through sacrifice. The embodiment of such sacrifice was Pramukh Swami Maharaj. This is why our entire nation is celebrating Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s hundredth anniversary today.

“Pramukh Swami Maharaj and his dedicated volunteers have created a campus that is so clean, green and serene, it appears miraculous. Nowhere can you find a single piece of litter, nor do you see constant cleaning. But there is a miraculous atmosphere of responsibility that Pramukh Swami Maharaj and his volunteers have created. BAPS has established hundreds of schools, colleges and hospitals guided by the Upanishadic principles that service is our highest duty and service of humanity assists in liberation. These have always been our civilization’s highest guiding principles, which we see in action at Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar. The amazing managerial, leadership and service skills learned here will lead us to a better nation for tomorrow. BAPS represents the universal spirit of Sanatan Dharma, so it will be an eternal and guiding force for all time to come.

“At Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar we see service and science, renunciation and technology, purity and modernity that is a microcosm of a new India that is ambitious, a new India that can organize massive projects at scale, and a new India that can be a leader of the world. I am from South India where our ancestors had created massive temples of great ambition. Due to invasions and colonization, for more than a thousand years, we lost the ability to dream big and imagine and execute things in a grand way. But when I visited Akshardham in New Delhi, I realized that BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha is rekindling this very innate Indian spirit of thinking grand, thinking audacious, thinking in an aspirational fashion, and organizing and executing it to perfection. This is what one sees in the BAPS temples in India, the US and the world over.

“This is a place where the youths should come to learn devotion to the nation and devotion to God, where they should come to learn self-realization and the upliftment of our nation, how to lead a life with the strength of character, courage of conviction and leadership that can transform ourselves and the nation. This is what young India needs today.

“The theme of today’s programme is youth. Youth is not an age; it is an attitude. I believe that Pramukh Swami Maharaj is this modern age’s greatest youth icon because the values he has established are timeless and universal. Many times, young people feel that religious organizations are only for the elderly. However, from organizations like BAPS, we learn lessons about how to lead a meaningful and purpose-driven life. These are not lessons to learn when we turn 75, but when we are bubbling with youthful energy at 15 or 16. That is when we must learn the art of living and equip ourselves to face the challenges of the world. Today around the nation and around the world, BAPS is doing this very necessary activity of human-making and nation-building through the language of love. BAPS works through the language of love and selfless sacrifice, encapsulating the millennia-old values of Sanatan Dharma.

“Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that the next 25 years must be the golden age of India. India needs capable leaders from the panchayat to parliament, from science to industry, from corporate to municipality. India needs young capable men and women who will be able to lead this nation to glory. BAPS is an organization through which we can be inspired and motivated to lead this great nation. I thank BAPS for giving me the opportunity of seeking God’s blessings here to return recharged and full of energy to serve India with every ounce of energy to make our country and civilization the greatest ever.”

Dr. Sambit Patra, National Spokesperson of Bharatiya Janata Party, said, “I have not come prepared because I was not aware that I would be asked to speak. Nevertheless, I would like to begin by firstly bowing to the soil of Gujarat, because there must surely be something special about it for having has produced two of the greatest personalities of the century – Pramukh Swami Maharaj and Honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

“I first bow to the holy feet of Pramukh Swami Maharaj. I was not very familiar with the Swaminarayan Sampraday, but when I saw photos and videos of Pramukh Swami Maharaj on TV, I was intrigued by his eyes, his aura, his divine voice. His face has been wonderfully depicted in the bubble wrap portrait here made from 800,000 bubbles by 150 women. What an awe-inspiring devotional offering! Even upon seeing the divine eyes and tilak in the giant sculpted image of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, you will rejoice in divinity.

“I want to bow to the volunteers. The volunteer driving me around was a graduate from IIT. Other volunteers I was introduced to were people with their own successful businesses, and yet they were serving water to the visitors. I cannot help but ask why everything here is so clean and efficient. I realised it is because the volunteers serving here expect no worldly rewards or remuneration, but only the spiritual blessings of their guru Pramukh Swami Maharaj.

“I bow to the love for the guru here. I saw it within Pramukh Swami Maharaj for his guru Yogiji Maharaj as he worked only to fulfil his guru’s vision. I also see it now in Mahant Swami Maharaj for his guru Pramukh Swami Maharaj in the magnificent creation of this grand Nagar. Where there is such divine, selfless love, even the impossible can become possible.

“Today, as we celebrate Youth Day, it reminds me of the boundless energy of youths. The way that the Swaminarayan Sampradaya and in particular Pramukh Swami Maharaj has positively channelized that energy is unparalleled.”

Gujarat High Court Senior Advocate Devang Nanavati shared, “I have come here to pay my tribute to my guru Pramukh Swami Maharaj. Whenever I saw him, I was immersed in his eyes. Whenever I was with him, I felt as if I was with God.

“Pramukh Swami Maharaj was a guru to millions, but what touched me deeply was his humility and simplicity. I have personally experienced his care. It was more than my own family could ever provide. He once presented me with a rosary, which I still keep with me.”

Muraleedharan, Union Minister of State for External Affairs & Parliamentary Affairs, added, “I had the opportunity to participate in Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s Amrut Mahotsav in Mumbai in 1995, and 25 years later, I am attending his Centennial Celebrations. I was deeply touched today by the Bal Nagari and particularly by the 11-year-old boy from the UK who explained to me how Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s teachings and love inspired the values of culture and spirituality in him and his friends. I have personally experienced over the years how BAPS’s children’s activities provide for the development of religion, spirituality, health and well-being amongst children globally.

“It is easy to preach but difficult to practice. Pramukh Swami Maharaj did not only preach, but he practised. I saw this when 22,000 Indian students stranded in Ukraine were provided food, shelter and support by BAPS without expecting anything in return. The love for humanity and compassion that has been inspired through Pramukh Swami Maharaj has been the guiding light for all the volunteers.

“This generation lacks guiding lights. The teachings of Pramukh Swami Maharaj are the guiding lights for all of humanity. We are celebrating Youth Day today and what better example can there be for youth than an institution like BAPS, which not only preaches but practises, where words and deeds match. The teachings of Pramukh Swami Maharaj will be the guiding light for generations to come and the deeds of the devotees and volunteers of BAPS will be the guiding light for the world that is searching for guidance.”

Shankar Chaudhary, Speaker of the Gujarat Legislative Assembly, shared, “As soon as one enters the Nagar, one experiences divinity, beauty and love. We can see at play here not just devotion, but devotion combined with science and management. I believe everyone should come to BAPS to learn about management.

“Pramukh Swami Maharaj worked constantly to help people around the world remain connected with their spiritual and cultural roots. It has been because of Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s tireless travels, love and vision that our cultural identity has been preserved and can flourish.”

Minister of Information and Broadcasting Anurag Thakur said, “Pramukh Swami Maharaj is being revered the world over because his exemplary work reached everyone around the world. He did not just preach, but practised everything to the letter. His lived his life solely for others as devotion to God. Only then could such a festival on 600 acres be possible.

“I urge everyone to visit Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar, especially the Bal Nagari, where children and families can learn so many important values and skills. For example, the ‘Sea of Survarna’ story is beautifully presented by young girls who teach us how hard and prayers can lead to success. In fact, all six exhibitions are worth watching as they teach so many valuable life lessons.

“Under the guidance and leadership of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, BAPS has always been at the forefront during natural calamities and helping people to overcome their sorrows. Today, under the leadership of Mahant Swami Maharaj, BAPS continues to grow worldwide. Because of BAPS’s focus on spirituality, ethical living and the spirit of volunteerism, it has raised respect for India among people around the world.”

Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Government of India Minister of Jal Shakti, added, “I have personally witnessed Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar coming up when I visited Ahmedabad a few months ago. At the time, I was curious as to what would lie inside. After seeing it completed today, I was awestruck upon entering the ornately carved Sant Dwar welcome gate. I am left speechless by the beauty and grandeur of everything within Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar. Even though these celebrations will last only for a month, the beauty, divinity and inspiration of this creation will last a lifetime. I bow to the humility, divinity and saintliness of Mahant Swami Maharaj that has made it possible.”

In his blessings to the assembly, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj said, “Yogiji Maharaj used to say, ‘The youth are my heart.’ The heart is such a vital organ, and Yogiji Maharaj gave that place to the youth. He felt that youths should be ideals of service. They should not just be healthy in body, but cultivate the spirit of service. They should serve everyone without distinction. This is the duty of a youth.

“Youths should strive to be ideal in all aspects of life. In every activity, they should keep religion and ethics at the forefront. A lot can be achieved if one has good character. Our actions should be such that they reflect positively upon God and our guru. People should be inspired not just by our intelligence or talents, but by our character.

“No matter what obstacles we face, we must resolve to study diligently. We must also firmly resolve to worship God. With firm resolution, we will certainly be able to accomplish these two things.

“The youths who presented today did a fine job. These youths are not just good performers, but they are steadfast in their observance of ethical living. We congratulate all the youths as well as the swamis and volunteers who have guided them, without which their energies would be wasted.”

Instilling Values in an Unborn Child

2 Jan. 2023, Monday, Ahmedabad, India

On 2 January 2023, the BAPS Women’s wing organized a seminar on Garbh Sanskar at the Women’s Empowerment Hall in Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar.

Dr. Monika Vasani, Ayurvedacharya, Founder of Dream Baby Garbh Sanskar and a Medical Officer with over a decade of experience delivered a seminar on the importance of Garbh Sanskar, describing the values to be instilled in the womb. Dr. Vasani said, “One of the reasons for the high crime rate in society is the neglect of value cultivation in young children. As per Socrates, child development starts in the mother’s womb. Comparing a young child to a seed, Pramukh Swami Maharaj said that significant improvements must occur in the seed and not the mature tree. Similarly, values must be instilled from the moment a child is conceived.”

Elaborating upon the need to model the values one wishes to foster in children, she said, “Parents’ characters are significantly responsible for the values a child imbibes. Raising a child is perhaps the most important project for parents, so we must pay utmost attention at the early stages of a child’s life. That is why according to Hinduism, Garbh Sanskar is the first of the 16 sacraments for individuals.”

Further, drawing a comparison between modern medical science and Ayurvedic medicine, she said, “Even modern medical science says that 80% of the development of a child is in the womb. So ideally, if we spend 100 years teaching new values to an individual after they are born it would still not yield the same results as the values a foetus gets while in the womb.

“Our scripture, Charaksamhita, says that there are, in all, six mediums through which a foetus imbibes values. These include both parents’ character, biological cycles, thought processes, behaviour, outlook, etc. It thus becomes imperative for the parents to ensure and consciously adopt a valued and disciplined lifestyle for the sake of their children. For these reasons, Mahant Swami Maharaj has advised that pregnant women should read spiritual books to ensure the inculcation of spiritual values.

“A child in the womb can hear from the 4th month. Scientists have shown that cells responsible for hearing are near the top layer of the skin. This automatically increases the child’s grasping power in the womb, resulting in the formation of lifelong impressions.”

Finally, she concluded by adding, “Good character creates a good society, but a good character is built right from the mother’s womb. For this, parents must be aware and stay informed about raising a good child from the very early stages to create a better society.”

On this occasion, Jayshree Mehta, former collaborator with UNESCO and the UN in scientific policy planning, new project implications and gender equality, and Owner and Director of Infinium Toyota expressed her immense gratitude towards Pramukh Swami Maharaj and applauded the efforts of all the volunteers in Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar. She said, “I feel fortunate, proud and delighted to see how thousands of volunteers have banded together to serve at Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar.

“Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s personality was so magnanimous that words fall short of describing it. He was a ‘Yug Purush’ and a great soul like him comes only once in a century. His thought process, demeanour, dedication to serve society and people-oriented persona made him unique. He spent his whole life helping others.”

Recounting a divine experience she had of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, she said, “In 2000, Mrs. Yogini Brahmbhatt, a satsangi, gave me an outline of Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s life. I studied the outline and spoke to people about him from the information I had read. Since I had never personally seen him, Mrs. Yogini invited me to the Shahibaug mandir. Words cannot explain the feeling of absolute bliss I experienced upon seeing him. He positively impacted my life and made me understand that while focusing on science, technology, education, and policy planning is vital, it is equally crucial to serve society.”

She further applauded the work of Pramukh Swami Maharaj and BAPS in the 2001 Gujarat earthquake, saying, “When we learned that BAPS was involved in massive earthquake relief work, we decided to do our part by donating a Qualis car for the swamis and volunteers. Our aim was to give a token in the relief work to ensure better services to the affected in remote areas. Many affected villages and people received relief under the guidance and inspiration of Pramukh Swami Maharaj. After this experience, I have always felt his blessings with me.”

She recalled a meeting between Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam and Pramukh Swami Maharaj and said, “Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam designed a 5-point scheme to usher India into the 21^st century. When he showed Pramukh Swami Maharaj the same, Pramukh Swami Maharaj suggested adding spirituality as the sixth point as a world without moral and spiritual principles cannot advance. The 6^th point was formally introduced by Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, who stated that everyone’s life requires spiritual awareness.”

She concluded by saying, “I always feel like Pramukh Swami Maharaj is residing in my heart, mind and soul. We should all always follow in his footsteps.”

Dr. Neeta Goswami, BASM, former Chairperson GCCI, Ahmedabad, addressed today’s seminar by paying tribute to Pramukh Swami Maharaj on his birth centenary. She said, “The light of Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s life and work has illuminated my heart. Just the way God has created the sun and the moon, he has also created saints like Pramukh Swami Maharaj for the upliftment of society. His magnificent creations are the glory of India.”

She further explained the role of the Guru in life and said, “When we are not clear about our goals, we should take refuge in a competent Guru who can show us the right path. The Guru has a direct relation with God and he spreads the light of God in this world.”

Expressing her admiration for Pramukh Swami Maharaj, she stated “We are celebrating the centenary of the Guru who was close to God, or I would rather say similar to God. He was a Saint who had no expectations from society but instead dedicated his entire life to the bliss of people. No person can be more capable than him.”

She concluded her speech by saying that “We shall consider ourselves fortunate that such saints bring reforms to make our lives worthy and blissful. Hence, I thank God immensely for providing me the opportunity to be a part of such majestic celebrations.”

Children’s Day: Celebrating the Future

2 Jan. 2023, Monday, Ahmedabad, India

Hundreds of children from BAPS children’s centres around the world presented an exhilarating programme titled, “Thank you Pramukh Swami!”

Before an audience of tens of thousands gathered to commemorate ‘Children’s Day: Celebrating the Future’ at Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar on 2 January 2023, this programme of creative and inspirational dramas, dances, devotional songs, videos, testimonials and speeches expressed children’s gratitude for the tremendous positive impact Pramukh Swami Maharaj had on their lives.

BAPS Children’s Activities were formally established in 1954 by Yogiji Maharaj. Thereafter, Pramukh Swami Maharaj and Mahant Swami Maharaj expanded and nurtured the children’s activities around the world. Today, BAPS has established 9,000 children’s activities centres that guide and support 150,000 children annually to lead moral lives and serve society in more than 40 countries across 5 continents. More than 20,000 volunteers support the management of these children’s activities.

Evening Assembly

The evening programme began at 4.30pm with 65 children engrossing the audience in devotional hymns. Thereafter, the various activities of the BAPS Children’s Forum were presented through engaging skits and dances.

A video portraying further glimpses of BAPS’s children’s activities then followed.

A number of successful men and women who had gained inspiration and life skills through their participation in BAPS Children’s Activities were honoured in the assembly. They included Gujarat Assistant Commissioner of Labour Nehaba Parmar, founder of Paper N Parcels and India’s youngest entrepreneur Tilak Mehta, Deputy Director of Gujarat Information Ministry Nitya Trivedi, FlyDubai airline Pilot Vinay Gajra, US Army Blackhawk Helicopter Crew Chief Sapna Patel, Harley Street (UK) Periodontist Dr. Reena Wadia, Senior Vice President of Engineering at LinkedIn Mohak Shroff, and American COVID vaccine campaigner Dr. Mayank Amin.

The evening’s programme concluded with children expressing their heartfelt gratitude through a special presentation “Thank you Pramukh Swami!” before joining Mahant Swami Maharaj on stage to play some games with him.

Following the programme by children, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj and dignitaries paid tribute to Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s visionary leadership in the holistic development of hundreds of thousands of children worldwide through the BAPS Children’s Activities

William Selvamurthy, President of Amity Science, Technology & Innovation Foundation and former Chief Controller of Research & Development (Life Sciences & International Cooperation) at the Defence Research and Development Organisation, said, “I am blessed to begin this new year in this heavenly, blissful and divine place. I met Pramukh Swami Maharaj over 20 years ago, and I used to often go with Dr. Abdul Kalam to visit him at Akshardham in New Delhi. President Abdul Kalam would visit Pramukh Swami Maharaj whenever he felt troubled, and he would return with peace and a resolution to his problems.

“Pramukh Swami Maharaj has been able to construct a thousand temples over four decades. This is not humanly possible. Pramukh Swami Maharaj was an avatar who had come to this world to uplift and transform humanity. He was an embodiment of unconditional love and compassion for everyone. He used to say, ‘In the joy of others lies our own.’ He expressed compassion not only in words but in deeds. This philosophy motivated his disaster relief, educational and healthcare activities.

“I am convinced that by Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s inspiration his disciples around the world will create a new world order of global peace, harmony, good health and happiness for everyone. He wanted to transform this whole world, and now it is upon us to take that further. Pramukh Swami Maharaj used to say, ‘Our life is only worthwhile if we do good deeds and walk the path towards God.’ I am sure all of us will emulate, practise, radiate and create a new world order of good health, peace, and prosperity for everyone. The young children performing this programme are gaining invaluable lessons in character to enable them to eventually create this new global order of peace. India is emerging as a world leader not due to economic, military, or knowledge power, but by its spiritual power.”

Dr. Vishwanath Karad, Founder of MIT World Peace University in Pune, said, “Swami Vivekanand at the World Religious Conference held in Chicago in 1893 had rightly prophesized that the union of science and spirituality alone will bring harmony and peace to humanity. I feel that Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar is not man-made but a creation of the Divine. I can witness a new face of Indian culture in this place. Pramukh Swami Maharaj was a pure soul who created more than 1,000 mandirs and built several educational institutions, which is not humanly possible. Pramukh Swami Maharaj was a God-realized soul. His eyes radiated divine light. After returning to my hometown in Maharashtra, I will promote the message of Pramukh Swami Maharaj and apprise people of his monumental works.”

Ratnakar Ji, State General Secretary of BJP Gujarat, said, “Seeing children performing on stage felt incredible. The feelings that it gave are absolutely divine and everyone has experienced this. I did have an idea of Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s love for children, but the way it has been depicted here today is divine and exemplary. This love is the means to uplift all with spirituality and is India’s true culture. Pramukh Swami Maharaj and BAPS have thought about how to benefit children and individuals at every stage of life.”

Padma Vibhushan Prathap C. Reddy, Founder & Chairman of the Apollo Hospitals Group, said, “I applaud Mahant Swami Maharaj and all the volunteers for this absolutely marvellous, wonderful creation for the Pramukh Swami Maharaj centenary celebrations. It is marvellous because Pramukh Swami Maharaj was a marvellous person and a divine blessing to the nation and the world. I am very grateful to all the swamis and thrilled with the volunteers for what you have created in just a few months. I feel it is a very fitting tribute to a great soul like Pramukh Swami Maharaj.

“Pramukh Swami Maharaj not only created over a thousand mandirs, but he personally uplifted and transformed the lives of people of all ages. We are all here because of the great services and blessings of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, which has done phenomenal work not just in propagating spirituality, but also teaching how to live as a good human being.

“One day, Pramukh Swami Maharaj called to bless me, my family, the entire Apollo family, and all the patients. He told me, ‘You are here to serve people. You must serve them as your children.’ The experience I felt at hearing his words was indescribable and miraculous. Though words cannot express how I felt, I think all of you know whenever you walk into a Swaminarayan mandir, you have that feeling that you are here for a purpose that you must fulfil. Whatever services I have been able to offer to society, I attribute to the blessings of Pramukh Swami Maharaj who touched my heart and significantly impacted my life.”

Madhav Singh Diwan, Diwan of Bilada, shared, “As my mother was a staunch BAPS follower, she insisted that my father, the Diwan of Bilada State, invite Shastriji Maharaj to our home in Rajasthan. My father was not a believer, so when Shastriji Maharaj came, he refused to meet him. On the last night of Shastriji Maharaj’s visit, my father experienced a trance in which he saw the image of Bhagwan Swaminarayan and Gunatitanand Swami, which transformed into Shastriji Maharaj. He woke my mother and told her what had happened. In the morning, he went to see Shastriji Maharaj and performed the arti. They had gone to Gondal one day. Pramukh Swami Maharaj was a young sadhu then. My father passed away soon after, but Shastriji Maharaj would look after me. Yogiji Maharaj and Pramukh Swami Maharaj showered their compassion upon me, always looking after my comfort. My relationship with Pramukh Swami Maharaj was both a father-son and a guru-disciple relationship, and I pray the same relationship continues with Mahant Swami Maharaj.”

Mahant Balaknath Yogi, Member of Parliament from Alwar Lok Sabha in Rajasthan, Chancellor of the Baba Mast Nath University and 8th spiritual head of the Nath Sampraday, shared, “Through the blessings of Pramukh Swami Maharaj and Mahant Swami Maharaj, I am fortunate to see this fifth Kumbh Mela at Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar. We have all heard about the four Kumbhs, but this is the fifth. I have experienced a miracle here. Today’s programme was conducted by children. My name is also Balaknath. I always tell my gurus that I am a child; I am always open to learning.

“What Pramukh Swami Maharaj has achieved in independent India and abroad, no one in India’s history has been able to do. He is the pillar of Indian and Hindu society. It is no easy task to build a temple. There is no discrimination at temples. Temples preach love and service to society. Today, the whole world needs the messages of Hindu culture. It was Pramukh Swami Maharaj who tirelessly spread these messages. This is why I believe the world looks at India as a leader.”

Bandhu Triputi Pujya Shri Jinchandraji Maharaj, Founder of Shantidham Aradhana Kendra, said, “When the history of 20th and 21st-century India is written, Pramukh Swami Maharaj will stand as the greatest sant of modern India. His greatness is not because of the number of temples he built, how many homes he visited, or how many letters he wrote. His greatness was due to his spirituality, saintliness and the light of his divinity. This awakened spiritual energy in anyone who came into contact with him.

“It is rare to find such a divine person like Pramukh Swami Maharaj. I have always been attracted to his divinity. I have seen him up close. Whenever I met Pramukh Swami Maharaj, I used to be reminded of Bhagwan Mahavir’s words, ‘Only one who is soft-hearted, accommodating, humble and generous is pure enough to uphold Dharma.’ Pramukh Swami Maharaj was such a pure sant.

“Pramukh Swami Maharaj never discriminated. He believed everyone to be his. He ignited the light of morality and spirituality in everyone. Whenever we see Mahant Swami Maharaj, we also find true saintliness.

“Thousands of volunteers and swamis have worked tirelessly day and night to create this magnificent Nagar. It is difficult to build even one home, and so to build an entire Nagar is extraordinary. I have been going around the Nagar since 3 PM and can truly say that there is nothing lacking. I must tell others that to understand cleanliness, devotion to the guru and service, you must go to Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar.

“Today’s ‘Children’s Day’ is being celebrated because Pramukh Swami Maharaj inspired value-based learning in children. He also empowered women and inspired de-addiction campaigns. His blessings have showered upon everyone, and because of his blessings, BAPS has intellectual swamis who can spread the sampradaya’s message across the world.

“I fondly recall the image consecration ceremony of the new temple in Tithal, the town where I live. Can you imagine that Pramukh Swami Maharaj asked me, a Jain muni, into the inner sanctum to bless the images?! I was touched! He even visited one of our Bandhu Triputi gurus when he was ill. Even we did not even know how he found out that the Jain muni was ill. This shows that his unparalleled love and compassion was without distinction of religion. He is a true sant who wished the good of everyone.”

Pujya Vishwa Prasanna Tirth Swamiji, President of Pejawar Math, shared, “People have come from around the world to this Nagar because Pramukh Swami Maharaj worked to instil values in people everywhere. A society’s future is reflected in the future of its children. Pramukh Swami Maharaj gave children the values that will make tomorrow’s society prosperous and peaceful. This work is continuing today, showing us that Pramukh Swami Maharaj is still with us in the form of Mahant Swami Maharaj.”

Ashwini Vaishnav, Minister of Railways, Communications & Electronics & Information Technology, Govt. of India, shared, “It is my honour to have received the blessings of Pramukh Swami Maharaj and Mahant Swami Maharaj. Mahant Swami Maharaj told me, ‘In whatever work you do, you should keep the spirit of service at the forefront.’ I can see the thousands of volunteers at Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar have created such a breath-taking campus by imbibing this teaching.

“Inspired by the selfless service of all the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha’s followers around the world, I offer a small token of service to the community by renaming the ‘Gujarat Sampark Kranti Express’ train as ‘Akshardham Express’ in honour of Pramukh Swami Maharaj as it will connect his two divine creations – Akshardham Gandhinagar and Akshardham New Delhi.”

In his blessings to the assembly, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj said, “I offer my congratulations to the children for their exceptional performance today on the occasion of Children’s Day. Small children are often ignored, but they are doing good work now and will do great things in the future. Pramukh Swami Maharaj always showered his spiritual love on children. Children felt that Pramukh Swami Maharaj is ours and elders also felt that Pramukh Swami Maharaj is ours. In this way, Pramukh Swami Maharaj had won everyone’s hearts.

“Pramukh Swami Maharaj told children ‘You should regularly attend the mandir, bow down to your parents daily, study hard, and pray daily. This is your service to us.’ Pramukh Swami Maharaj also used to tell parents, ‘If you do not instil values in your children, you will lose both your children and your wealth.’ In this way, Pramukh Swami Maharaj cared for the cultivation of character in the young generation.”

Shaikshik Sangh: National Conference

2 Jan. 2023, Monday, Ahmedabad, India

A special one-day national conference was organized today for vice-chancellors, principals and educationalists at Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar in Ahmedabad in partnership with the Gujarat Rajya Mahavidyalaya Shaikshik Sangh and Akhil Bharatiya Rashtriya Shaikshik Mahasangh.

Titled ‘Spirituality in Education’, the conference was led by a panel of high-calibre speakers, namely Rohit Desai (President, Gujarat Rajya Mahavidyalaya Shaikshik Sangh), Professor J.P. Singhal (President, Akhil Bharatiya Rashtriya Shaikshik Mahasangh), Shri Bhikhubhai Patel (Chairman, Charutar Vidyamandal), Shri J.J. Vora (VC HNGU), Professor A.C. Brahmbhatt (PhD Programme Coordinator, PDEU Gandhinagar), Professor Dr. Chandkiran Saluja, Dr. Jayantibhai Bhadesia (RSS Gujarat), Praful Pansheriya (Minister of State, Parliamentary Affairs (Primary, Secondary and Adult Education, Higher Education)), Professor Navin Sheth (Vice Chancellor, GTU), Professor Ramashankar Dubey (Vice Chancellor, CUG), Professor Bhagwati Prakash Sharma, and Rushikesh Patel (Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Higher & Technical Education, Law & Justice, Govt. of Gujarat).

In his welcome address, Rohit Desai, President of Gujarat Rajya Mahavidyalaya Shaikshik Sangh, said, “I pray before God that may we take positive energy from this holy Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar. Though we impart quality education to students in our educational institutions, Pramukh Swami Maharaj has imparted value-based education by working for the welfare of society through initiatives such as de-addiction campaigns, disaster relief work and women empowerment programmes. We should strive to unite and impart education that will benefit society and our nation.”

In his inspiring inaugural address, Brahmaviharidas Swami, a senior swami of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), said, “Through education, an individual becomes civilized. When you add spirituality, an individual becomes divinized. Today, we all gathered to witness ‘a clean, green and a serene festival’ in a dust-free ‘Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar’ where 1 crore paved bricks are laid by the volunteers, which in itself is a symbol of devotion.

“Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, who was the most loved President of India, said to Pramukh Swami Maharaj that he wished to be remembered among the masses for being a good teacher rather than a president or scientist. Dr. Kalam’s wish was to take his last breath before students. Dr. Kalam referred to Pramukh Swami Maharaj as a ‘world-revered teacher.’ This reveals that the teaching profession is valued by two of the greatest leaders of our times, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam and Pramukh Swami Maharaj.”

Subsequently J.P. Singhal, President of Akhil Bharatiya Rashtriya Shaikshik Mahasangh, added “We are fortunate to be a part of this conference with the blessings of Pramukh Swami Maharaj. Education without spirituality is futile. We should strengthen our cultural roots by incorporating universal lessons from our scriptures into our education system.”

Thereafter, Praful Pansheriya, Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs (Primary, Secondary and Adult Education, Higher Education), shared, “Teachers are in a position to create students who can achieve professional excellence while also instilling within them civilizational values. It is the lack of spiritual education that is leading to increasing suicide rates among highly educated people. A spiritual-based education shall enable youths to have the wisdom to make positive decisions.

“Pramukh Swami Maharaj did not pursue a formal higher education, but through his spirituality, humility and pure conduct, he led an organization like BAPS and inculcated these values in the swamis and devotees. We need to learn from Pramukh Swami Maharaj to renounce arrogance and focus on the betterment of students. Teachers should enable such an education wherein students achieve stability and not succumb to negative influences.”

J.J. Vora, Vice Chancellor of Hemchandracharya North Gujarat University, thereafter said, “I appreciate the devotion and dedication of the 80,000 volunteers of different professions who have come together to create this magnanimous Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar. Such synchronization of unity, creativity and hard work is only possible due to divine intervention.” He further discussed the smooth implementation of the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020).

Bhikhubhai Patel, Chairman of Charutar Vidyamandal, Vidyanagar, said, “The city of Vidyanagar is fortunate to have been blessed by Shastriji Maharaj, who was the guru of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, to be a hub of some of the most eminent educational institutes of India. In 1964, Yogiji Maharaj established Akshar Purushottam Chhatralaya (APC), an educational hostel facility for students that has resulted in providing the country with character-based and value-driven youths. Out of the 1,200 swamis in BAPS, 135 are from APC. Pramukh Swami Maharaj had performed the ground-breaking and inauguration ceremony of several institutions in Vidyanagar. It is a matter of pride for us that the present spiritual leader of BAPS Mahant Swami Maharaj was an alma mater of our institute.”

In his keynote address, Professor Dr. Chandkiran Saluja elaborated upon the need for spirituality in the education system in reference to NEP 2020. He said, “The objective of NEP 2020 is to provide holistic development for students. The ancient Hindu scriptures provide lessons on how inculcating spirituality in education can positively transform a person’s life. On reading the literature of the Swaminarayan tradition, I realised how lessons by the swamis are strengthening the cultural roots of people and are also enabling them to work for the betterment of society.”

Dr. Jayantibhai Bhadesia of RSS Gujarat explained the importance of value-based education for preserving a cultural ethos. He said, “Swami Vivekanand gave great importance to saints and teachers. He advocated instilling spiritual values in education as an essential ingredient to develop an ideal human.” He further narrated his first-hand experiences on how the Indian diaspora in the United States provides extra classes on Hindu culture to instil value-based learning in children.

Professor A.C. Brahmbhatt, PhD Programme Coordinator at Pandit Deendayal Energy University in Gandhinagar, said, “On 30 June 2001, in his first meeting with Pramukh Swami Maharaj, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam had asked for advice on how to achieve Vision 2020 where he had identified five important areas to transform India. These were Education & Healthcare, Agriculture, Information & Communication, Infrastructure, and Critical Technology. Pramukh Swami Maharaj guided that a sixth area needed to be added – faith in God and developing people through spirituality.” He further explained how NEP 2020 is focussed on balancing the logical and creative aspects of a student’s mind.

Professor Ramashankar Dubey, Vice Chancellor of Central University of Gujarat, explained, “The true essence of education lies in the holistic development of the student. Spirituality has been central to Indian culture since ancient times. Universities like Takshashila and Nalanda were centres of holistic development for students. Hindu scriptures teach us the eternal presence of the soul in our bodies and God in each particle of the universe. If we keep our soul pure with the thought that the god is the all-doer, we will progress. A true holistic knowledge starts from our home. One should strive to become a global citizen with roots in our cultural knowledge.”

Professor Navin Sheth, Vice Chancellor of Gujarat Technological University, said, “We are privileged to be a part of the centennial birth celebrations of Pramukh Swami Maharaj while we are also celebrating Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav.”

Professor Bhagwati Prasad Sharma shared insights on the importance of spiritual-based education for the development of India. He further shared incidents of the scientific temperament espoused by the ancient Hindu Scriptures and advocated a need to inculcate those lessons in the educational curriculum.

Thereafter, Gnanvatsaldas Swami of BAPS delivered an inspiring talk. He said, “Pramukh Swami Maharaj advocated, ‘Education without values destroys, while education with values protects us.’ An illiterate person without values may steal a minuscule amount, but a learned person without values may embezzle lakhs and crores. The creation of modern weapons to destroy humanity is a result of an education without values. Value-based education will result in teachers being revered and students respecting parents, serving others with compassion and kindness. Pramukh Swami Maharaj used to say, ‘The heart of education is the education of the heart.’ A true teacher is one who inspires his or her students to achieve the impossible.

“Drawing inspiration from Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s value-driven life, more than 80,000 volunteers have created Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar and hundreds of thousands of people are visiting Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar daily. A teacher should read beyond his or her expertise and strive to give five minutes of positive guidance from inspirational characters to inspire their students towards character development.”

The final session concluded with the inauguration of a new publication, In Love, At Ease: Everyday Spirituality with Pramukh Swami written by Yogi Trivedi of Columbia University, New York, USA. In his remarks, he shared, “Pramukh Swami Maharaj inspired me to become a professor by saying, ‘educate your mind before sharing your knowledge, keep an open mind wherever you go, and never stop being a student.’ Pramukh Swami Maharaj saw divinity in his surroundings and saw God in everyone. He loved and served everyone beyond the existing conventions of caste, creed, race and ethnicity.”

All the delegates were then given a guided tour of ‘Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar’ where they learned about Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s inspiring life and worldwide contributions to humanity through the various attractions and exhibitions.

Today’s event is the ninth in a series of fourteen such conferences for professionals of various fields, including doctors, 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.

Lessons in Patience

1 Jan. 2023, Sunday, Ahmedabad, India

On 1 January 2023, as part of the ongoing series of women’s empowerment programmes organised at Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar, Advocate Gauri Chandnani, former President of the Income Tax Bar Association, reflected upon the works of Pramukh Swami Maharaj in the field of women empowerment – a movement that was started 200 years ago by Bhagwan Swaminarayan. She said, “From the time of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, all of his spiritual successors have done immense work for empowering women. For example, Pramukh Swami Maharaj inspired the creation of a-three-month training program for the holistic development of young women in BAPS, called the Yuvati Talim Kendra. This exceptional programme has helped the thousands of young women who have proactively participated over the years grow in all aspects of their life.”

Talking about the need for women’s empowerment, she highlighted the fact that a woman, if uplifted, contributes to the progress of two families at once. She further added, “Today’s women are managing multiple fronts including their professions, social engagements, and domestic responsibilities. This is the strength that God has gifted to women. Our overall environment has given women a good perspective of their future and the ability to contribute to our national economy. This wouldn’t have been possible without their family’s support.”

Further, Ms. Chandnani shared her personal experiences with Pramukh Swami Maharaj saying, “I owe all my success and achievements to the blessings of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. My father, an IAS officer, had the good fortune to meet Pramukh Swami Maharaj and so, I have witnessed that Pramukh Swamiji never differentiated based on anyone’s social class, education, etc. When a Saint like him has compassion for us, we are blessed. When my mother passed away, Pramukh Swami Maharaj had asked four Swamis including, Pujya Doctor Swami, to visit our place and do bhajan. This way, Pramukh Swami Maharaj ensured that he was with us during our sad times.”

She concluded by adding, “We all are capable of doing good things. I have successfully saved 75% of the marriages from long-pending divorce cases during my tenure at the family court which was only possible due to God’s grace. We women have immense untapped potential to uplift others. We just need to nurture our skills and you will be amazed by your own capabilities!”

BAPS women’s wing volunteer, Dharaben Vaidhya, highlighted the virtue of patience reflected in the life of Pramukh Swami Maharaj. She emphasised the importance of patience in leading a calm and successful life. She narrated Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s response after the terrorist’s attack on Akshardham and said, “Pramukh Swami Maahraj’s appeal for peace to the society was the epitome of his patience. Though Akshardham was one of his finest creations and it was under attack, he chose peace and avoided any unrest in the society. Likewise, in our personal lives too, for good decision-making, we need patience and level-headedness as fundamental virtues in our lives.”

Dr. Naynaben Patel, Dean of the Dental College of Jamnagar, shared her experience of visiting the Nagar by mentioning that, “Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar is incredible! I am amazed, particularly by the arrangements at the Women Empowerment Exhibition Hall and I feel that what I see here is almost legendary. My visit to Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar on the first day of 2023 will be my first step towards spirituality for this year.”

Bal-Yuva Kirtan Aradhana

1 Jan. 2023, Sunday, Ahmedabad, India

Over 170 BAPS children and youths from 10 countries performed a series of devotional hymns celebrating Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s divine life and work before a mesmerised audience of tens of thousands at Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar on 1 January 2023. The beautiful performance began at 5.00pm in the open-air theatre, ‘Narayan Sabha Gruh’.

His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj was joined by various dignitaries who paid homage to Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s life of pristine devotion to God that inspired such devotional fervour and talent in countless children and youth around the world.

Pramukh Swami Maharaj was renowned worldwide as the inspirer of over 160 humanitarian activities that benefited the lives of countless millions. His lifelong efforts for the moral uplift of humanity were grounded in his indomitable faith in God. He was an ardent lover of spiritual discourses and devotional hymns, often stating, “Spiritual discourses and hymns are food for the soul.” He would be constantly engrossed in them and would continually encourage all to similarly immerse themselves in them.

Due to his emphasis on spiritual discourses and hymns, throughout Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s Centenary Celebration year, thousands of such devotional hymn programmes were organised in BAPS’s 20,000 spiritual forums worldwide in which hundreds of thousands enthusiastically participated. In just the Ahmedabad metropolitan area, BAPS youths performed 100 devotional hymn programmes over the past year. On the occasion of Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s Centenary Celebrations, BAPS has designed the ‘Akshar Amrutam’ mobile application, which has over 2,000 kirtans, 900 discourses and 6,000 audio book tracks available for free.

Addressing the assembly, Padma Vibhushan Jagadguru Ramamandacharya Swami Rambhadracharya Ji, Founder and Chancellor of Jagadguru Rambhadracharya Divyanga University, said, “The bliss obtained through a single moment with an enlightened saint is greater than the pleasures of countless heavens. I had this very experience when I met Pramukh Swami Maharaj. I experienced four exceptional virtues in Pramukh Swami Maharaj. His face exuded constant bliss, his heart was permeated with infinite compassion, his speech was exceptionally sweet, and his hands worked solely for the good of others.

“We have all come to the Pramukh Swami Maharaj Centenary Celebrations to learn from his life. As the worship of God purifies our mind, Pramukh Swami Maharaj said to devote yourself to God and inspire others to do the same. Always remember, you are God’s servant and God is your master. Whatever God does is for our best benefit. May we forever maintain such unflinching faith. Everything we amass in this world will be lost at the time of death, except our devotion to God.”

Padma Shri Dr. Sanjay D. Patil, President of D Y Patil Group, shared, “Pramukh Swami Maharaj has brought inspiration, happiness and love to the lives of millions. So, it is no surprise that hundreds of thousands from around the world daily flock to this festival. I congratulate the planning and coordination of the thousands of volunteers whose selfless service has gifted the world with this divine atmosphere of devotion and faith. As I have always believed that the blessings of God and parents are needed for success in life, the new year blessings of Mahant Swami Maharaj will ensure I will be able to do good in the upcoming year.”

In his blessings to the assembly, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj said, “Yogiji Maharaj used to say, ‘Singing and listening to hymns is my spiritual inclination.’ So he will indeed have been greatly pleased with the performance of the children and youths today. He would always bless children and youths who would offer such devotion.

“Children and youths have so much strength, energy and talent. Pramukh Swami Maharaj nourished and channelised that for the betterment of society. Today’s wonderful musical programme is a vivid demonstration of that. We should also appreciate the many swamis and volunteers who have patiently worked hard to develop and mentor these children and youths.

“We also thank Jagadguru Rambhadracharya Ji, Dr. Patil and all our stage guests today for encouraging these performers in their devotional tribute to Pramukh Swami Maharaj.”

Other dignitaries present in the evening assembly included:

Rajesh Man Singh, Mayor, Birgunj Metropolitan City, Nepal
Ashok Kumar Baidhya, Goodwill Ambassador, Birgunj Metropolitan City, Nepal
Anand Askaran Sharma, Renowned Musician
Sandeep Kulkarni, Renowned Flautist
Paresh Shah, Renowned Musician

Place: Ahmedabad, India

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