Celebrating BAPS Asia-Pacific Day : Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar
On 11 January 2023, BAPS devotees from various countries in the Asia-Pacific region presented a creative programme titled ‘BAPS Asia-Pacific Day’ to tens of thousands assembled in Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar. Following the special programme, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj and dignitaries from around the world paid tribute to Pramukh Swami Maharaj and his work of inspiring spirituality, temples and humanitarian service in the Asia-Pacific region and around the world.
Pramukh Swami Maharaj inspired an array of humanitarian activities and fostered the spiritual and cultural heritage of thousands through 18 BAPS mandirs in the Asia-Pacific region. Pramukh Swami Maharaj visited the region for the first time in 1984 and again in 1996 when he installed the sacred images (murtis) of God and gurus in a small home declaring that, from this small beginning, BAPS activities would foster cultural and spiritual values throughout the region.
Evening Assembly : The thought-provoking programme commenced with devotees from the Asia-Pacific region singing devotional hymns. Following this, various dramas, videos, dances and speeches depicted Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s tireless efforts in travelling, constructing mandirs, and serving and transforming the lives of thousands of devotees and volunteers around the Asia-Pacific region.
Various swamis travelling in the Asia-Pacific region shared their experiences of how Pramukh Swami Maharaj and Mahant Swami Maharaj have inspired spiritual values amongst devotees in the region.
Head of BAPS Mahant Swami Maharaj said, “We congratulate all the centres that came together to present a beautiful program on the occasion of Asia-Pacific Day. Pramukh Swami Maharaj had travelled to this region three times and blessed the devotees. I also have many warm memories of my visits to the region.
“When we speak of painting the region with spirituality, it means to make efforts, endure hardships, and persevere through difficulties, which is what the devotees and swamis have done. This will be accomplished most rapidly if we maintain unity, fraternity and affection. While this may appear to be child’s play, when you go to its roots, there is immense depth there. Moreover, our faith, staunchness in religious observances, and humility will nurture spirituality. Our faith will inspire faith, our religious observances will be respected by all, and our humility will strengthen the bonds of friendship with all. In this way, the countries of the Asia-Pacific region will be painted with spirituality. May all the devotees of this region progress in all aspects of their life.”
Prime Minister of Australia Anthony Albanese said in a video message, “On behalf of all Australians, I send my warmest wishes to His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj and the BAPS organisation for the 100th anniversary of the birth of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj. I pay tribute to his legacy. His message of serving those around us is something we can all strive for. As he said, “In the joy of others lies our own.” This legacy lives on here in Australia. Today we are proud of the vibrant BAPS community here in Australia which through beautiful temples across our country enriches Australian society. I look forward to the completion of the large new BAPS temple in Sydney.
“Australia and India share a close bond of friendship and an important contributor to this burgeoning partnership is our thriving Indian Australian community which forms a living bridge between our two communities as a signal of the interconnectedness of our communities. I was proud to hear that thousands of Australians are attending the centenary celebrations this year, and I wish BAPS every success for these celebrations.”
The evening assembly stage guests also included:
Dr. Arjunsinh Rana, Vice Chancellor, Swarnim Gujarat Sports University, Gandhinagar
Prof. Dr. Bimal Patel, Vice Chancellor, Rashtriya Raksha University
Thursday 12 January 2023
Akshardham Day: Celebrating Divinity
5.00pm to 8.00pm
Narayan Sabha Gruh
.