The Honourable Pierre Poilievre, Leader of the Official Opposition of Canada, visited the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Toronto on April 18, 2025, to pay his respects to Bhagwan Shri Swaminarayan.
Upon his arrival, the Hon. Poilievre was warmly welcomed by the Board of Directors of BAPS Canada and greeted in a traditional Hindu manner in the Abhishek Mandapam. Pujya Satyavratdas Swami honored him with a rose garland, and Pujya Gnanpriyadas Swami tied a nada-chhadi (sacred thread) on his wrist.
Pujya Gunsagardas Swami, Head Swami of BAPS activities in Canada, then performed the auspicious abhishek ritual of Nilkanth Varni Maharaj alongside the Hon. Poilievre. Together, they offered heartfelt prayers for peace and well-being across Canada and around the world.
The Hon. Poilievre was then presented with Spirience: Experiencing Peace and Prosperity through Science and Spirituality, a thought-provoking book that explores the harmony between ancient spiritual wisdom and modern scientific understanding. The book offers a path toward personal well-being and global peace through the integration of science and spirituality. It was presented by Dr. V.I. Lakshmanan, who co-authored it alongside Mahamahopadhyaya Bhadreshdas Swami (Head of the BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute) and Mr. S. Kalyanasundaram.
During his visit, the Hon. Poilievre interacted with volunteers of all ages—from young children to seniors—as well as representatives from Hindu community organizations and local leaders, acknowledging their service and contributions to society.