A special programme for senior devotees aged over 65 years was held in the presence of Mahant Swami Maharaj on 18 May 2023 at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London.
Vadil Din began with special bhajans performed by vadils during Swamishri’s puja in the morning, which were introduced by recordings of Yogiji Maharaj singing the opening lines. These bhajans were selected to bring back memories for the vadils who, as youths, had previously presented them to Yogiji Maharaj during his visits to East Africa and the UK in 1970. The bhajans, which were some of Yogiji Maharaj’s favourite, served as a tribute to him.
Further memories of Yogiji Maharaj were recalled by Mahant Swami Maharaj during his morning blessings through an interactive question-and-answer session. He remembered youths cleaning the site of a disused church in Islington, which was converted into the first BAPS mandir in the Western hemisphere. Swamishri, who was also present at the time, interacted with the audience through personal gestures that brought those cherished memories to life.
Anandswarupdas Swami addressed the attendees later in the morning to provide guidance on the next stage of their spiritual journey. He emphasised the importance of continuing their spiritual activities with enthusiasm and offering their time in seva.
These messages were reinforced by Sadguru Tyagvallabhdas Swami, who explained how vadils can continue to engage in devotion without distractions. He also reflected upon the ‘jivandori’ (spiritual lifeline for an aspirant seeking ultimate liberation) that has been attained and encouraged the gathering to reflect upon this during their daily activities.
A ‘Jivit Kriya’ mahapuja was held in the presence of Shri Akshar-Purushottam Maharaj. The essence of this collective prayer was to seek blessings for the senior devotees as they reflect upon their spiritual lives and further detach themselves from worldly attractions in order to more fully devout themselves to God. The mahapuja also provided an opportunity to pray for peace and prosperity across the world.