The 94th birth anniversary of Pramukh Swami Maharaj was celebrated with great devotion over several days in November and December at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London.
An enlightening programme of spiritual discourses, videos, dramas and devotional songs was held at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London on the evening of Saturday 29 November 2014 – Swamishri’s birthdate according to the lunar calendar (Magshar sud 8).
The assembly began with devotional singing retelling the inspirational life of Pramukh Swami Maharaj. The early years were portrayed through short sketches, charting the moments where he left home to become a sadhu and the passion of selfless service that he exhibited at a young age.
The biographical journey continued to the present day depicted through a montage of touching episodes exploring some of Swamishri’s personal qualities and the bond that he shared with his gurus Shastriji Maharaj and Yogiji Maharaj.
A video presentation of Swamishri discussing his own experiences with Shastriji Maharaj was then shown, as well as the pledge that Swamishri declared when he was appointed as the President of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha in 1950.
Sadhus spoke of the selfless and humble nature with which Pramukh Swami Maharaj has continued to serve the Sanstha. In particular, Satyavrat Swami elaborated upon Swamishri’s tireless efforts over the years in caring for haribhaktas, inspiring a spiritually centred fellowship, and uplifting society with multifarious service projects.
The festivities concluded with joyous singing as sadhus offered their respect and devotion by placing a garland of flowers around the murti of Pramukh Swami Maharaj.