Ahmedabad, Dec 7 – The city’s Sabarmati riverfront came alive for the Pramukh Varni Amrut Mahotsav, celebrating the 75th anniversary of Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s appointment as the head of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha.
The gala was attended by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi.
Amid the festive lights, Amit Shah told the gathered crowd that Swami Maharaj’s life offers practical lessons for anyone seeking a meaningful existence. He pointed out that the riverbank’s 75 illuminated boats each represent a quality of the Swami, together forming “a way to live life.”
Shah highlighted how the Swami broadened spiritual and Vaishnav teachings, turning lofty ideals into everyday action. “By uniting devotion and service, he lived the Vedic message of seeing divinity in every individual without ever needing to preach it,” he remarked.
He added that through compassionate, silent deeds, Pramukh Swami not only fortified the Swaminarayan tradition but also reinforced the foundations of Sanatan Dharma. In a climate where belief in saints and institutions is waning, the Swami and thousands of monks restored faith through their personal discipline.
Referring to the Sabarmati riverbank, Shah described it as a witness to saints’ sacrifices, recalling Mahatma Gandhi’s satyagraha and Pramukh Swami’s acceptance of spiritual leadership in Ahmedabad’s Amlivadi Pol. He expressed confidence that the celebration would elevate the site to a globally significant landmark.
Bhupendra Patel praised the event as a testament to the unwavering commitment of BAPS volunteers, whose dedication reflects the values taught under Pramukh Swami Maharaj and senior monks. “Thousands here give not only their time but also their resources. Their spirit of ‘what happens is done by God’ comes from years spent in the company of saints,” he said, noting that true Satsang teaches one to embrace life’s triumphs and trials with equanimity.
BJP state president and MLA Jagdish Vishwakarma called Pramukh Swami Maharaj a “reservoir of virtues,” adding that simply recalling his name brings peace to the heart.
BAPS spiritual leader Mahant Swami Maharaj extended blessings to the assembly, reminiscing about the Swami’s lifelong humility and service even while holding the organization’s highest office. He shared anecdotes from his youth, underscoring the Swami’s discipline, compassion, and steadfast commitment to vows.
The evening also featured cultural performances by young devotees and the presence of senior BAPS saints, creating an atmosphere of devotion, reflection, and community spirit along the Sabarmati riverfront.
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