Youths today are constantly bombarded with images of substance abuse through different forms of media, family members, and the social norms of today’s society. BAPS works diligently to raise an addiction-free generation by educating teens about the negative effects of substance abuse. An effective way to educate teens is by getting them to educate others: BAPS youths organize and execute massive de-addiction drives and campaigns around the world. Youths educate the community about the risks of substance abuse through exhibits, theatrics, and door-to-door campaigns. One such intervention campaign included the touring performance of a theatrical play called “Kafan.” Kafan attracted record audiences of more than 900,000 people all over India. Special exhibitions at Mega Festivals around the world host massive de-addiction camps that have helped more than 850,000 people pledge addiction-free lives.
Youths play an important role in educating their peers through one-on-one consultations and counseling. They draw inspiration from Pramukh Swami Maharaj, who has worked tirelessly to help thousands of people live addiction-free lifestyles. One such incident occurred in Ahmedabad. A truck driver parked his truck outside the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, Ahmedabad. He pulled out a cigarette and was just about to light it when he saw a sadhu walking towards him. Pramukh Swami Maharaj was returning from a local satsang sabha when he noticed the man lighting a cigarette. He walked over and started talking to him about smoking and the damage it does to his body. Almost three hours into the conversation and two hours past midnight, the driver agreed to quit. The sadhus and devotees tried to convince Pramukh Swami to finish talking to him in the morning, but Pramukh Swami Maharaj would not have it. His energy and passion to help this unknown truck driver better his life was indescribable. Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s life serves as an example for youths to continue in his footsteps to build an addiction-free society. These initiatives reduce the effects of substance abuse on the community and reaffirm the same in the minds of thousands of youths around the world.