Tag: BAPS
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…]
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…]
The Power of Patience and Love: A Memorable Moment with Mahant Swami Maharaj
On the 23rd of March, 2017, a touching moment unfolded in Nairobi, one that reflects the essence of patience, faith, and the boundless love of a true leader. A young 10-year-old boy named Tilak Dave sat outside Mahant Swami Maharaj’s room, filled with anticipation and hope. Tilak had memorized verses he wanted to present to Swamiji, longing for a chance to share them with him. However, that day was particularly busy for Swamiji. Someone informed Tilak that it would be incredibly difficult for Swamiji to make time, given his packed schedule. Although these words could have easily discouraged him, Tilak’s [Read More…]
A Lesson in Humility and Love: A Heartwarming Moment with Mahant Swami Maharaj
On the 20th of August, 2016, in Sarangpur, a beautiful and touching moment unfolded, leaving an indelible mark on all who witnessed it. During a gathering, Mahant Swami Maharaj was blessing the devotees who had gathered with devotion and love. Among them was a devotee named Shyamal Bhai, holding his young son, Jitendra, in his arms. As Swamishri placed his gentle hand on Jitendra’s head, blessing him with boundless love, the little boy, in his pure innocence, reached out his tiny hands to bless Swamishri in return. Shyamal Bhai, a bit embarrassed, quickly moved to pull his son’s hand down, [Read More…]
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…]
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…]
Leaders Lead with Humility and Action