BAPS Mandirs throughout North America celebrated the 2023 Unity Forum and Hindu Hriday Milan assemblies. This occasion was more than just a gathering; it was a significant step towards promoting unity, harmony, and peace among community leaders and the broader Hindu community in the region. The Unity Forum's inaugural event took place in 2022, graced by Mahamahopadhyay Bhadreshdas Swami. During this forum, Hindu mandir leaders and representatives of various Indian organizations convened, focusing on deepening their connections and mutual respect.
These gatherings were driven by His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj's profound words: “the circle of Global Harmony will continue to grow”. Both the Unity Forum and the Hindu Hriday Milan Satsang Sabha provided a platform for local community leaders, aiming to cultivate communities rooted in universal values such as peace, unity, and selfless service.
Leading the forums and assemblies across the country were BAPS sadhus and distinguished speakers, including Mahamahopadhyaya Bhadreshdas Swami, Pujya Munivatsaldas Swami, and Pujya Amrutcharitdas Swami. These Swamis engaged in meaningful dialogues with mandir boards, community figures, and local authorities, fostering collective strategies to address challenges and ensure the preservation of diversity and harmony. In addition, Pujya Gnanvatsaldas Swami and Pujya Yogipremdas Swami shared invaluable insights at the Hindu Hriday Milan Satsang Sabhas. They emphasized the significance of mandirs, shastras, and the role of a sant in guiding individuals closer to Bhagwan, further underscoring the importance of community harmony through unity.
In a special gesture, attendees were given the privilege to bless one of the stones that will form part of the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in Robbinsville, New Jersey.