On February 4, 2026, BAPS participated in a interfaith gathering on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., aimed at strengthening dialogue and cooperation among diverse religious and civic leaders. The event, hosted by the Muslim World League, brought together policymakers, diplomats, faith leaders, and community representatives to affirm the shared commitment to peaceful coexistence and mutual understanding.
Akshar Patel, MD, representing BAPS, expressed deep appreciation for the leadership of His Excellency Sheikh Dr. Mohammad bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa, Secretary General of the Muslim World League, whose global efforts have strengthened interreligious cooperation. He noted that in the nation’s capital, where dialogue and debate shape public life, advancing understanding across faiths is especially significant.
BAPS’ longstanding commitment to interfaith engagement was highlighted, including the historic 2022 interfaith conference in Riyadh and the 2024 International Conference of Religious Leaders in Malaysia, where faith leaders reaffirmed the responsibility of sustained dialogue and partnership.
Reflecting the guidance of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, the spiritual head of BAPS, Dr. Patel emphasized that interfaith dialogue rooted in humility, mutual respect, and service to society is essential to foster harmony in an increasingly interconnected world.
He also recalled H.E. Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa’s 2023 visit to Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi, as well as the presence of Mr. Muath Alamri, representing His Excellency, at the opening of Swaminarayan Akshardham in Robbinsville, New Jersey, as meaningful symbols of mutual respect and interfaith friendship.
Referring to the Hindu concept of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, the belief that humanity is one family, Dr. Patel remarked that such interfaith moments of unity “affirm that when religious institutions work together, they can strengthen social cohesion, counter hatred, and contribute positively to the moral fabric of our societies.”
As the gathering concluded, H.E. Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa was greeted by BAPS Swamis, Pujya Viratswarupdas Swami and Pujya Mangalnidhidas Swami, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to participate in this dialogue.