On Saturday, September 10, 2022, the Consulate General of India in New York invited the community and organizational leaders from across the Tri-State area to honor the life and work of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj during his centennial celebrations.
The 70 distinguished guests in attendance learned of and expressed appreciation for Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s support for Indian communities across New York and New Jersey. Pujya Brahmviharidas Swami gave the event’s keynote address that explored Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s unique ability to impact humanity through each encounter and interaction by “perfecting the spirit of a human being.” The event showcasing the many talents of children and youth demonstrated that this message had been heeded by the younger generations in the United States. In addition, the BAPS youth recited Sanskrit prayers of peace and sang the national anthem of India.
Amongst those who addressed the assembly were Randhir Jaiswal, Consul General of India, NY; Kenny Desai, President, Federation of Indian Associations (FIA), and Amit Doshi, a community leader and Senior Executive Managing Director at Meridian Capital Group. Each speaker expressed gratitude for BAPS’ and Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s advocacy for Indian culture in America throughout previous decades.
Following the assembly, guests were served vegetarian food by BAPS volunteers. Guests left the event with a shared excitement for upcoming centennial celebrations honoring Pramukh Swami Maharaj.