Devotees across North America celebrated Guru Mahant Swami Maharaj’s 86th Janma Jayanti birthday celebration at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan mandirs across North America. The program aimed to highlight and reinforce principles and values close to Swamishri’s heart.
Through various program elements such as engaging skits, scenarios, and short speeches, the stage presentation emphasized humility, unity, and the importance of following the wishes of one’s guru as a means to please him and attain moksha (liberation). Examples from Mahant Swami Maharaj’s life brought to light ways in which each of us can focus on the good of others (gun grahak drashti) and maintain humility not only in our conduct but in our hearts. Gurus Yogiji Maharaj and Pramukh Swami Maharaj often noted these qualities of Mahant Swami Maharaj as an inspiration for all. His exemplary life serves as an ideal model for devotees on their path to achieving moksha. A Gunatit guru, one who is connected with Bhagwan, one who is present, one whom individuals can look to for example and guidance, and one whom individuals can find solace with is essential in leading one towards this goal.
Perhaps the message that resonated most with the audience was to cultivate humility and see the best in others as a means to develop positive character traits. Attendees left inspired to act upon these messages in order to further their spiritual journey in Satsang.