Chaturmas is a holy period of four months in the Hindu calendar during which devotees undertake additional religious observances. During this time, parayans (scriptural discourses) are held at BAPS mandirs and centres around the world.
This year, learned sadhus from India, North America and the UK presided over 65 of these discourses throughout the UK and parts of Europe. Gnanpriyadas Swami, Shrutiprakashdas Swami, Gnanpurushdas Swami, Aksharkirtidas Swami as well as resident swamis from the UK offered their wisdom on a variety of themes based on the Ramayan, Mahabharat, Shrimad Bhagwat Puran, Shrimad Bhagwad Gita, Katha Upanishad, Bruhadaranyaka Upanishad, Harililamrut, and other sacred Hindu texts and themes.
The discourses provided spiritual enrichment through theological insight and practical guidance to thousands who attended. Many of the centres also organised special exhibits to consolidate the theme of their respective parayan.
A key feature of these parayans was the involvement of children, who conducted the inaugural parayan pujan in fluent Sanskrit at some of the venues.
In addition, swamis and experienced volunteers presented Bal Parayans titled ‘Who is the Greatest?’ at 20 mandirs and centres in the UK, drawing key messages from popular Hindu scriptures. More than 650 children learned about the power of God as the all-doer through interactive presentations, games and stories.
Several centres also had mahilas conduct their own special parayans, inspiring women of all ages with insightful discourses and engaging presentations based on the teachings of ancient Hindu scriptures.
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