Author: BAPS Volunteers
Ignorance and Suffering: Lessons from Gunatitanand Swami
“There are two miseries in this world, the lack of food and clothing, or that they cannot be digested or used. Apart from these, all miseries are due to ignorance.” Swamini Vat Section 2, Number 71. There are two true miseries in this world: the lack of food and clothing or the inability to use and digest them. These are fundamental needs, essential for survival. Beyond these, most sufferings arise from ignorance. Misunderstandings, unnecessary worries, and emotional burdens are often the result of a lack of awareness. When we fail to see things clearly, we create struggles that could have been avoided. [Read More…]
Leaders Lead with Humility and Action
Pujya Anandjivan Swami shares a memory of Mahant Swami Maharaj. Once a spiritual gathering was planned in a field near the mandir in Sankri, Gujarat. However, when Swamishri and the sadhus arrived, the field was far from ready. It was overgrown with weeds and littered with garbage, the remnants of years of neglect. Without hesitation, Mahant Swami quietly picked up a bucket and began cleaning. No announcement, no request for help. Just simple, silent action. Others quickly ran to him and said, “Swamiji, we will do it. Please stop.” But Mahant Swami just smiled and replied, “No, you also join [Read More…]
Lyrical Reflections: Without a doubt, attain Akshardham adored
Devotion is not a mere sentiment—it is a path of resilience and surrender. In the powerful bhajan Karie Raji Ghanshyam Re, the revered poet-saint Nishkulanand Swami emphasizes the essence of true devotion: aligning oneself completely with the will of God. Just as a disciplined seeker abandons distractions to focus on the ultimate goal, a true devotee dedicates their life to pleasing the Lord. The bhajan begins with a call to make God the center of one’s existence. Pleasing Him is not just an act of worship; it is the key to fulfillment. Everything else in life falls into place when [Read More…]
The Power of Self-Reflection: Lessons from the Vachanamrut
“The jiva looks at objects externally, but it does not look at its own self.” – Gadhada Section 1, Number 20. The jiva (soul) constantly looks outward, seeking material objects and judging others, yet it rarely turns inward to examine itself. Bhagwan Swaminarayan calls this ignorance. True wisdom begins with self-awareness. How often do we pause and reflect on our own thoughts, actions, and purpose? We search for answers in the external world, but the real clarity lies within us. When we take the time to understand ourselves, we unlock the wisdom we have been seeking all along. Let’s pause, reflect, and embark on the journey [Read More…]
Calm Amidst the Chaos
Once, in Gold Coast, Australia, Mahant Swami Maharaj was on his way to a spiritual gathering when an unexpected incident occurred. As soon as he entered the hotel lift, it suddenly got stuck. For 39 long minutes, those around him grew anxious, fumbling for solutions. Some even imagined the worst. But Swamishri? He remained calm and undisturbed. Not a trace of worry crossed his face. Finally, when the doors opened, there was no frustration, no anger, and no complaints—just a gentle smile. Even after stepping out, his concern was not for himself but for others. When he saw a volunteer heading toward the hotel’s manager, he [Read More…]
Lyrical Reflections: Why Play the Pauper?
Devotion is not about scarcity—it is about abundance. In his compelling bhajan, Shidne Rahie Re Kangal, the revered poet-saint Nishkulanand Swami paints a striking picture of misplaced perception. A devotee who has attained the divine yet continues to live as if lacking is like a wealthy king who chooses to beg in the streets. The bhajan urges seekers to recognize their spiritual wealth and abandon the illusion of emptiness. The hymn begins with a powerful question: Why play the pauper? Those who have received the greatest treasure—Puran Brahma Purushottam—should not feel deprived. The poet challenges this contradiction, reminding devotees that [Read More…]
Avoid Judging Others: Lessons from Gunatitanand Swami
“Serve according to one’s own faith, but never do disservice. What is that disservice? To perceive faults in others.” Swamini Vat Section 2, Number 132 Service is a reflection of our faith and devotion. It is not just about actions but the intent behind them. True service comes from humility, not superiority. One of the greatest disservices we can do is to perceive faults in others. When we judge, we shift our focus from serving to criticizing. This weakens our spirit and derails our purpose. Instead, let’s cultivate a mindset of upliftment. Service is about love, kindness, and devotion. When we let go of judgment, [Read More…]
True Greatness Lies in Humble Service: A Memorable Moment with Mahant Swami Maharaj
On 14th September 2016, Mahant Swami Maharaj was personally meeting each sadhu, listening with patience and care. As the final sadhu, Pujya Divyanand Swami, prepared to leave, his recent leg operation made it difficult to maneuver his wheelchair. Before anyone could assist, Swamishri himself stood up, walked over, and gently took hold of the wheelchair. With quiet determination, he pushed it all the way to the lobby, graciously refusing any help. This simple yet profound act left a lasting impact. For Pujya Divyanand Swami, it became a cherished memory. For those who hear this story, it remains a timeless lesson—true [Read More…]
Lyrical Reflections: Daring are the Devout…
Devotion is not for the faint of heart. In his powerful bhajan, Dohyalu Thavu Haridas Re, the revered poet-saint Nishkulanand Swami paints a striking picture of spiritual bravery. Just as a warrior charges into battle with fearless determination, true devotees must confront their inner struggles with unwavering faith. The bhajan begins with a call to become compassionate servants of God, urging seekers to relinquish worldly comforts. This idea may seem daunting, but the poet draws an inspiring parallel—just as a courageous soldier embraces hardships on the battlefield, a sincere devotee must battle against the enemies of the soul: lust, anger, [Read More…]
The Power of Faith and Courage
In the Swaminarayan tradition, the kirtans composed by Brahmanand Swami, such as Harijan Sacha Re, Tekna Mele Re, Jo Hoy Himmat Re, and Pet Katari Re, are powerful hymns that inspire courage and devotion. These kirtans were written during a time when being a Swaminarayan devotee was fraught with challenges. Kings like Vajesinh Darbar of Bhavnagar opposed Bhagwan Swaminarayan, punishing devotees like Rupabhai, who endured immense suffering for their faith. To uplift the morale of these devotees, Bhagwan Swaminarayan instructed Brahmanand Swami to compose these kirtans, which emphasize inner courage and unwavering faith in God. The Essence of Courage The [Read More…]
Ignorance and Suffering: Lessons from Gunatitanand Swami