The 90th birth anniversary of Mahant Swami Maharaj was joyously celebrated on Saturday 7 October 2023 at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London.
The event encompassed a range of devotional tributes, including enlightening discourses, video presentations and kirtans from swamis as well as children and youths, which paid homage to Mahant Swami Maharaj’s saintliness.
The evening began with a journey into the historical significance of Mahant Swami Maharaj’s birth celebrations, which first started in 1966 when Yogiji Maharaj commemorated Mahant Swami Maharaj’s 33rd birth anniversary and spoke of his profound greatness.
Mahant Swami Maharaj’s steadfast commitment to foster spiritual nourishment that has been exemplified through his tireless travels to villages, towns and cities, as well as his personal correspondence through letters was shared through an enlightening presentation.
The montage of photographs and testimonies also revealed inspiring accounts of the comfort, care and counsel that he has provided to countless souls during challenging moments of their lives, including through his written blessings to the UK fellowship in 1971 following the passing of Yogiji Maharaj.
Mahant Swami Maharaj’s memorable interactions with devotees in the UK were relived through a series of video highlights of his visit to London earlier this year, rekindling cherished memories for everyone inside the prayer hall.
A series of uplifting kirtans were performed with an accompaniment of an array of instruments by children and youths, which further described Swamishri’s noble virtues.
Swamis provided commentaries on the eloquently sung verses, expanding on Mahant Swami Maharaj’s spiritual greatness as well as his unwavering devotion to his gurus.
Their reflections also delved into the legacy that Mahant Swami Maharaj has created through his inspiration of millions, his sacrifice, his austerity and the wisdom he has imparted across decades.
Bringing the celebrations to a close, swamis offered flower petals at the murti of Mahant Swami Maharaj in reverence and adoration.
The 90th birth anniversary celebrations of Mahant Swami Maharaj were a testament to his humility, service and limitless love, and also event served as a reminder of his timeless teachings, which continue to inspire countless worldwide. Devotees left the Mandir with hearts filled with devotion, gratitude, and a renewed commitment to embody his guiding principles in their lives.