The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi took center stage at TEDx Tampa, as Pujya Brahmaviharidas Swami addressed a sold-out audience of over 1,000 delegates. TEDx is a global platform where top leaders and changemakers share transformative ideas with millions worldwide.
Pujya Brahmaviharidas Swami elaborated on how simple, everyday conversations have the power to shape history. Beginning with the question on everyone’s mind, “Why are his clothes orange?”, he explained that saffron represents the colors of cremation and self-sacrifice, reminding us of our impermanence and urging us to strive to do as much good as we can, to as many people as we can, for as long as we can.
He then wove together three pivotal conversations – one in the heart of a silent desert with no one around, one conversation in a corridor with everyone around, and one within the quiet palace of the Ruler of Abu Dhabi. Each carried a vital lesson: the power of choosing a single inner ‘yes’ over a thousand voices saying ‘no’, and the ability of generosity to unite entire cultures.
Building on those lessons, Pujya Brahmaviharidas left the audience with a timeless message from His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, “In the joy of others lies our own.” Beautifully echoed by His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, who often says, “You only live when you give.” Together, these words did more than inspire, they offered a philosophy to live by.
The other remarkable speakers at TEDx Tampa were: John Couris, CEO of Tampa General Hospital; Laurel Lee, U.S. Congresswoman for Florida’s 15th District; Rhea Law, President of the University of South Florida; Bawa Jain, Secretary General of the World Council of Religious Leaders; Michael Stephens, CEO of Tampa International Airport; Dan Toomey, investigative journalist and founder of ‘Good Work’; Randall Kaplan, founder and former CEO of Akamai Technologies; Tim DeKay, acclaimed actor, director, and producer; and Wardah Inam, CEO of Overjet AI and a pioneer in dental artificial intelligence.
Prominent media representatives from FOX, ABC, NBC, PBS, and other major outlets were in attendance, capturing the energy and power of the event. In addition, more than 25 digital content creators, including national commentators, and Tampa-based creative voices, amplified the event’s message across social media platforms, reaching tens of thousands in real time and far beyond the auditorium walls.
Experiences
“This has been the best experience of my life.” - John Couris, CEO of Tampa General Hospital
“Forever changed after hearing Swami speak.” - Kara
“The monk’s message stayed with me the most because kindness can be practiced by anyone and in everything we do. I also loved his message about the power of everyday conversations.” - Virginia