Tag: BAPS

Few moments in life quietly shake us awake—reminding us what true compassion, humility, and service look like. This story of Mahant Swami Maharaj, set on an ordinary afternoon in June 2020, is one such moment. It challenges us to pause, reflect, and ask: Would I set aside my own comfort to uplift someone else? Below is a deeper exploration of that seemingly simple incident—and the profound spiritual principles it teaches all of us. The Heart of Seva: When Others Come First A Routine Interrupted, A Value Upheld Mahant Swami Maharaj had just finished his afternoon exercise in Nenpur, India, and [Read More…]

What if the greatest spiritual shift you’ll ever make doesn’t come from a long scripture, a deep meditation, or a major life event—but from a single, powerful thought? On the first day of 2023, Mahant Swami Maharaj offered a message so short, yet so spiritually profound, that it can reshape the way we see others and the way we live. This is the story of that moment—and the spiritual principle behind it. A New Year, A New Lens to See the World A Day Filled Yet Never Too Full for Guidance January 1st, 2023, in Ahmedabad was far from a [Read More…]

The Moment That Moved a Guru A Glimpse into True Devotion January 2nd, 2023 — Bal Din (Children’s Day) — was a day of joy and celebration in Ahmedabad, India. As thousands gathered for the occasion, Mahant Swami Maharaj, the spiritual leader of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, made his way back to his residence in a golf cart after the festivities. Along the path, devotees lined up, offering folded hands and smiles. But what caught his attention was not the crowd — it was a small group of volunteers and sadhus standing quietly in the background. A Leader’s Blessing His attendant [Read More…]

Would you endure pain every single day, just to bring comfort to others? On 1 February 2020, in Navsari, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj showed what true selflessness looks like. His schedule was filled with back-to-back personal meetings. Even though he had arrived earlier than expected, time slipped away as countless people waited for his blessings. One by one, they approached him. And one by one, he gently placed his hand upon each head, offering them blessings and peace. A simple gesture, yet filled with so much warmth and love. This is what those devotees traveled miles to receive. But [Read More…]

In a palace of gold and grandeur, where every corner whispered luxury, a quiet yet profound lesson unfolded. On 17 February 2020, Mahant Swami Maharaj arrived at the famous Lakshmi Vilas Palace in Vadodara, warmly welcomed by the royal family. The atmosphere was filled with reverence and tradition, and after the formal welcome ceremony, the host offered him a refreshing glass of sharbat—thoughtfully prepared, perfect for his health. But as Mahant Swami Maharaj reached for the drink, something gave him pause. It wasn’t the sharbat. It was the glass. The vessel in which it had been served was no ordinary [Read More…]

On June 25, 2019, Mahant Swami Maharaj was in Ahmedabad. On this day he demonstrated what true tolerance looks like. Not through words, but through observance. While having his lunch, his attendant, Sadhu Vinaypriya Swami, noticed a strange crunching sound as Swami ate his broccoli. Concerned, he quickly removed the remaining pieces and asked, “Swami, was there dirt in the broccoli?” Swami calmly nodded, “In every bite.” Surprised, the attendant said, “Then why didn’t you say anything? I would have removed it immediately!” But Mahant Swami Maharaj remained at ease. And in that simple choice, he taught us what tolerance [Read More…]

On 25th August 2018, Pujya Mahant Swami Maharaj demonstrated, in the most natural way, what it means to live selflessly. That morning, after taking just a small portion of his breakfast, Swamishri began sharing with the sadhus around him. From his own bowl, he offered blueberries to Bhaktavatsal Swami. Surprised, Bhaktavatsal Swami said, “Swami, you had quite a few blueberries today.” Atmaswarup Swami, who was also present, lovingly added, “Why don’t you complete the whole bowl?” Still, Bhaktavatsal Swami insisted, “Swami, you can eat more. These fruits are really healthy for you.” With a gentle smile that carried the wisdom [Read More…]

In the days when Mahant Swami Maharaj was serving as the head of the BAPS Mandir in Mumbai, his daily routine was filled with countless responsibilities. As the Mahant, he cared for many sadhus and devotees, each with their own unique personalities and needs. Among them was one individual known for his difficult nature and strong dislike for a particular dish. One day, during a meal with the sadhus, this very dish was mistakenly served to him. Unable to control his anger, the man not only complained but went so far as to hurl the food in frustration. The plate [Read More…]