The 2012 National Yuvak-Yuvati Mandal Shibir was held at Warwick Conference Park near Coventry, UK from Saturday 25 August to Monday 27 August in the presence of senior sadhus from India, including Narendraprasad Swami (Acharya Swami), Gnaneshwar Swami, Shrutiprakash Swami, Vivekjivan Swami and Mukundcharan Swami, as well as sadhus from BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London.
More than 470 yuvak-yuvatis from across the UK attended the shibir entitled ‘Shurvirta’ (meaning ‘courage’), based on the five principles prescribed by Yogiji Maharaj in the Yogi Gita: Karvu (to do), Janvu (to know), Mukvu (to leave), Samajvu (to understand) and Rakhvu (to keep).
The three-day shibir conveyed these key messages through a variety of media, including discourses, panel discussions, open forums, interviews, dramas and video blessings from Pramukh Swami Maharaj – all providing spiritual insight and guidance for practical application.
The participants learned that true shurvirta is not to overpower others, but to fight one’s own negative mindset and overcome one’s inner vices. To think and act differently, in other words, it is to have lofty spiritual aims, to act with righteousness, to fulfil one’s duty with integrity, and to be engaged in devotion.
A key highlight of the discourses delivered by sadhus was an eloquent presentation on the traditions of Satsang by Vivekjivan Swami. Another notable event was a kirtan bhakti programme entitled ‘Yogijini Jivan Bhavana’ where sadhus and youths sang a collection of lively bhajans to the accompaniment of various musical instruments.
On the final day, the exemplary life of Pramukh Swami Maharaj was highlighted as one characterised by unfaltering adherence to spiritual values and principles. He has been ‘the difference’ for millions of people, inspiring them with the courage to lead a principled, God-centred life. This served as a fitting conclusion to enable the attendees to imbibe the principles of shurvirta in their lives too.