Part 11 of Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s in-depth biography archives his remarkable spiritual leadership and selfless humanitarian services between 2007 and 2010 – a period marked by historic milestones and unwavering dedication, despite declining health.
In 2007, at the age of 85, Swamishri traveled to Kenya, North America and the UK, where large public gatherings were held to celebrate the BAPS Centenary. He inaugurated the new shikharbaddha mandirs in Toronto and Atlanta, and met world leaders, including the President of Tanzania and Prime Minister of Canada. The year culminated with the grand BAPS Centenary celebration assembly in Ahmedabad, during which Guinness World Records honored him for building the most and largest Hindu mandirs worldwide.
At the start of 2008, Swamishri required medical treatment in Mumbai, following which he agreed to certain restrictions in his vicharan and daily schedule to reduce his workload. However, he continued to grant daily darshan and provide personal counseling to inspire devotees, while spearheading the Sanstha’s spiritual and social projects. In 2008, he initiated construction of the BAPS shikharbaddha mandir in Jamnagar and guided BAPS relief efforts in the aftermath of the devastating floods in Bihar.
Throughout 2009, Swamishri continued to encourage devotees in their devotion and seva during his visits to various BAPS mandirs and centers. He initiated construction of the BAPS shikharbaddha mandir in Mahuva, the birthplace of Brahmaswarup Bhagatj Maharaj, and presided over the historic Aksharbrahma Gunatitanand Swami Diksha Bicentenary Celebration in Dabhan.
In 2010, Swamishri inaugurated the outstanding and acclaimed Sahaj Anand Water Show at Swaminarayan Akshardham in Gandhinagar, which provides an innovative multimedia experience highlighting timeless spiritual truths. He consecrated the new BAPS shikharbaddha mandir in Bhadra, the birthplace of Aksharbrahma Gunatitanand Swami, and in Limbdi. He also inaugurated the refurbished central sanctum of Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi.
Although his vicharan had been reduced for health reasons, Swamishri’s daily schedule remained as demanding as always. His devotion to Bhagwan Swaminarayan and his commitment to spreading the message of Akshar-Purushottam remained as powerful, inspiring, unwavering and impactful as ever.