Based on the theme ‘In the joy of others, lies our own’, BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, Australia, celebrated the life, work and legacy of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj with an event in the Mural Hall at the Australian Parliament House, Canberra.

Many community leaders, parliamentarians and staff of the Australian Federal Parliament took part in this unique and historic celebration.

The Hon. Dr. Jim Chalmers, Treasurer of Australia, addressed the assembly and congratulated the BAPS volunteers for their efforts in promoting a stronger and united society, “Shayne [Neumann] and I are massive supporters of the BAPS community because we have seen for ourselves the way that you don’t just observe a faith, but you put that faith in action. ‘In the joy of others lies our own’ is the kind of sentiment that you can run a whole country on.”

Minister of Communications, Hon. Michelle Rowland, who has visited the Swaminarayan Akshardham complexes in Gandhinagar and New Delhi, said, “The legacy of Pramukh Swami Maharaj lives on years after his passing through his followers and devotees. But most importantly, through the values of BAPS.”

Children and youth volunteers recited Sanskrit verses from the Satsang Diksha shastra and recited the Vedic verses of the auspicious Shanti Path to pray for global peace and harmony. Children presented cultural performances attributing their skills to the legacy of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, who has inspired more than 10 mandirs and 58 centres across Australia.

Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs, Hon. Andrew Giles; Member for Makin, Tony Zappia; Member for Pearce, Tracey Roberts; Member for La Trobe, Hon. Jason Wood; Member for Blair, Hon. Shayne Neumann; Member for Moreton, Graham Perrett; and Member for Moore, Ian Goodenough also spoke about the contributions of Pramukh Swami Maharaj and BAPS to the Australian community.

Ian Goodenough, presented a plaque to BAPS representatives to commemorate the birth centenary celebrations of Pramukh Swami Maharaj and as a tribute to his life and achievements, recognizing his leadership and humility in serving society and the community.

BAPS volunteers from across Australia led guests through an exhibition highlighting Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s work that continues to inspire millions worldwide to become better individuals, and thus leading to more harmonious families and communities.

Everyone had the opportunity to pay their respects to Pramukh Swami Maharaj by offering flowers to his sacred image. BAPS volunteers tied a nadachhadi on the wrists of all and prayed that the values of service and humility inspired by the life of Pramukh Swami Maharaj are attained by all to create a united and stronger society.