Author: BAPS Volunteers
True Devotion in the Details: A Lesson from Mahant Swami Maharaj
In 1981, during the grand Bhagwan Swaminarayan Dwishatabdi Mahotsav, Mahant Swami Maharaj took on the humble task of landscaping. Though his responsibilities were substantial, Swamishri’s focus was not just on the larger plans but on the smallest of details. Every stone in the garden was carefully selected and painted by Swamishri’s own hand, as if he were creating a masterpiece. One day, a young volunteer, noticing Swamishri’s meticulous approach, asked him why he paid so much attention to such small things. Swamishri responded simply, “Because God sees everything.” For him, each small act was not just about achieving perfection—it was [Read More…]
Lyrical Reflections: True are those that keep strength within…
A true devotee embodies unwavering courage and resilience, even in the face of life’s toughest hardships. They remain steadfast and never utter discouraging words, reflecting their deep inner strength. Understanding the fleeting and illusory nature of worldly joys and sorrows, such a devotee does not grieve over the loss of wealth or health. Their heart overflows with benevolence towards others and unwavering love for God, strictly adhering to His commands. Even when physical suffering comes their way, their brave spirit remains undeterred. Each day, they renew their devotion with fresh enthusiasm, relinquishing attachments to anything other than God. As Brahmanand [Read More…]
Journey from Ignorance to Enlightenment
Spiritual wisdom has a timeless appeal, and one such reservoir of profound teachings is the Vachanamrut, a collection of discourses by Bhagwan Swaminarayan. In a recent episode of the podcast Satsang Conversations, a panel of spiritual leaders and seekers came together to unpack the layered wisdom of Vachanamrut Gadhada Section 1 – 20. The discussion took place in the serene setting of the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in London, UK, and was guided by Pujya Paramtattva Swami, Pujya Tyagratna Swami, and a devoted participant, Sandeepbhai and Yogmurtibhai The Ignorant of the Ignorant The podcast began with the central question of [Read More…]
Choosing Light Over Darkness: Lessons from the Vachanamrut
A Fistful of Sand: The Power of Positivity and Self-Reflection Imagine standing on a sunlit beach, the warm sand under your feet. You gather a fistful of sand and hurl it toward the sun, only to find it falling back into your eyes. This vivid imagery, used by Bhagwan Swaminarayan, captures a profound truth about human behavior. When we insult or demean others, we are not harming them—we are harming ourselves. Just as the sun’s radiance remains unaffected by the thrown sand, a person’s true light and worth remain untouched by negativity. The act of criticism or insult is like [Read More…]
True Devotion in the Details: A Lesson from Mahant Swami Maharaj