Her Excellency, Honorable Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of Australia, accompanied by her husband Mr. Simeon Mostyn, visited the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Canberra. They were traditionally welcomed with garlands and tying of nadachhadis, as well as a salute by the cadets of Canberra Mandir.
During a guided tour of the mandir, youth volunteers conveyed to Her Excellency insights into the philosophical significance of the murtis in the central shrine and the Abhishek Mandap, and informed her that the Abhishek Mandap had been funded entirely by Canberra’s youth. Then, she performed abhishek of the murti of Shri Nilkanth Varni.
In the assembly hall, over 200 people warmly welcomed the Governor-General. The program began with an Acknowledgment of Country, followed by musical performances, a Sanskrit recitation of Satsang Diksha shlokas by children, and heartfelt reflections by youths on the Mandir’s impact in their lives.
During her speech, Her Excellency shared personal reflections, expressing how deeply the visit had impacted her. She described the Mandir as a transformative experience, stating, "I feel I have a clear head, a whole heart, a pure heart that has been driven by your welcome and the sacrifices and the ways in which you prepare us for the world that is complex and difficult."
She added, “What strikes me about today is I have heard those words over and over and over. Care, kindness, respect, with the additional words of compassion, love, care for one another.”
Her Excellency particularly noted the remarkable generosity displayed by the community’s youths, emphasizing their selfless contributions, “I was so moved about the sacrifices of time and resources that brought this Mandir to life. Sacrificing birthday presents – that says so much about giving at a young age.”
She concluded by expressing heartfelt appreciation: "Your selfless service, your compassionate view of the world, and your love have been deeply felt by us today.”
Before leaving, Her Excellency warmly engaged with community members, reflecting mutual respect and understanding.