Tag: BAPS
The True Meaning of Giving: A Memorable Moment with Mahant Swami Maharaj
The truest measure of greatness is humility. This powerful principle was brought to life on May 14th, 2019, during a Diksha ceremony in Surat. The occasion was significant, but what made it truly remarkable was a simple yet profound act of reverence by Mahant Swami Maharaj, offering a lesson in humility that continues to resonate. During the ceremony, the Santos presented Swamishri with a very unique shawl. This was no ordinary shawl; it was adorned with the images of all the students from the training assembly. As the Santos prepared to drape Swamishri with this special shawl, he immediately stopped [Read More…]
The True Meaning of Giving: A Memorable Moment with Mahant Swami Maharaj
October 5th, 2016, Nadiad, Gujarat. As Mahant Swami Maharaj walked toward the morning aarti, the joyful voices of hostel students filled the air—“Narayan Hare Sachidanand Prabhu!” This ancient chant carries deep tradition, often heard during Makar Sankranti, when those in need humbly ask for alms. But that morning, the students playfully directed it toward Swamishri, asking, “Swamishri, what will you give us?” With a gentle smile, he replied, “My whole self.” Simple words, yet deeply profound. A guru is more than just a teacher—he is a living example of sacrifice. Not the kind of sacrifice where one simply gives something [Read More…]
A Lesson in Selfless Service: A Memorable Moment with Mahant Swami Maharaj
Picture yourself cruising on a plane, thousands of feet above the ground. The air is cold, the journey feels long, and comfort becomes a priority. But for Mahant Swami Maharaj, every moment is an opportunity to serve. Before leaving India, a devotee made a simple request—“When you’re away, will you remember us? Maybe write us a letter?” It was casual, but for Mahant Swami Maharaj, it was important. Hours later, high above the clouds, he picked up a pen and paper. But the plane was freezing, and soon his fingers became stiff. Writing became painful, and his assistant gently suggested [Read More…]
A True Example of Selflessness: A Memorable Moment with Mahant Swami Maharaj
June 3rd, 2019, Sarangpur. The air buzzed with celebration and joy. Thousands had gathered for the grand opening of the Youth Convention, with Mahant Swami Maharaj at the heart of it all. As his golf cart approached, the cheers, the music, and the applause filled the atmosphere. In a moment like this, anyone might be carried away by the grandeur. But not Mahant Swami Maharaj. Amidst all the excitement, his focus shifted to something that others overlooked—four young volunteers walking barefoot on the hot ground. With genuine concern, he softly asked, Are they feeling hot? While others celebrated, he noticed [Read More…]
The Importance of Wisdom
In a recent episode of Satsang Conversations, the discussion took listeners on a deep and introspective journey through the teachings of Bhagwan Swaminarayan in Vachanamrut Gadhada Section 1, Number 16. Hosted at the serene BAPS Mandir in Houston, Texas, the episode featured a dialogue with Swami Bhaktivardhandas and other devotees, reflecting on the profound message of wisdom (Vivek) outlined in this Vachanamrut. Understanding Wisdom: The Power of Self-Reflection The conversation began with an exploration of how wisdom is defined in Vachanamrut Gadhada I-16. Bhagwan Swaminarayan explains that a true devotee, one who possesses wisdom, has the ability to distinguish between [Read More…]
Extraordinary Memory & Compassion: A Memorable Moment with Mahant Swami Maharaj
On October 23, 2016, Mahant Swami Maharaj visited Jamnagar. During his visit, he met Vijaybhai Nanani and, with a gentle smile, said just two words: “100 children.” The santos nearby were surprised. What could Swamiji mean? Curious, they turned to Vijaybhai, and an incredible memory resurfaced. Vijaybhai recalled an event from 1985 at a gathering in Nenpur. As a 16- or 17-year-old, he had asked Mahant Swami Maharaj to bless him so that 100 children would attend his Bal Sabha. Over three decades later, Swamiji still remembered that simple yet heartfelt wish. This was not just an extraordinary display of [Read More…]
Lyrical Reflections: No fortune like forbearance
Patience is the greatest fortune. In his profound verses, the revered poet-saint Nishkulanand Swami reveals the unmatched value of forbearance. No treasure surpasses patience, especially in the face of hardship. The hymn urges seekers to embrace endurance, recognizing it as the key to true strength. The verse begins with a striking truth: Forbearance is wealth. In difficult times, patience is the greatest support. The poet reminds us that no treasure compares to perseverance—those who cultivate it never truly suffer. Through powerful imagery, Nishkulanand Swami illustrates the resilience of the steadfast. The patient endure even grave grief without uttering words of [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…]
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…]
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…]