BAPS’ Bhadreshdas Swami becomes first saint-scholar to get highest literary award, Saraswati Samman
In Ahmedabad on September 29, Mahamahopadhyay Bhadreshdas Swami, a respected scholar and saint from the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, received the prestigious Saraswati Samman 2024. He earned the honor for his groundbreaking Sanskrit book, Swaminarayan Siddhant Sudha. This marks a huge milestone: it’s the first time a saint has won this top Indian literature award, and the first Sanskrit work to claim it in 22 years.
The Saraswati Samman, started in 1991 by the K.K. Birla Foundation, stands out as one of India’s most sought-after literary prizes. It goes each year to standout works in any of the country’s 22 languages, coming with a citation, a memento, and a Rs 15 lakh cash award.
The celebration happened at the stunning BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Shahibaug. It drew big names like Gujarat Governor Acharya Devvrat, Justice Arjan Kumar Sikri—who leads the selection committee—and university vice-chancellors. Thousands of devotees joined in, making it a lively event.
Justice Sikri praised the book highly, saying among entries in 22 languages, Swaminarayan Siddhant Sudha stood out like no other. "By honoring Bhadreshdas Swami, it feels like the award itself has been honored," he added.
Bhadreshdas Swami dedicated the Saraswati Samman to his spiritual guides, Pramukh Swami Maharaj and Mahant Swami Maharaj. "This isn’t just my win—it’s a sacred duty to help humanity," he shared humbly.
Pujya Brahmaviharidas Swami, a senior BAPS leader, called the moment a boost for India’s entire community of saints. "This goes beyond literature; it touches our civilization’s roots," he said.
The book dives deep into the Akshar-Purushottam Darshan philosophy through precise Sanskrit, highlighting key ideas like equality, wisdom, and spiritual freedom. This win shines a global spotlight on India’s spiritual writings and the enduring strength of Sanskrit traditions.
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