The BAPS Hindu temple that will soon be inaugurated at the hands of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is going to be West Asia's largest Hindu temple - a Historic step in the recognition of culture of Bharat in the world. One person has played an instrumental role in the making of the temple. That person is Swami Brahmavihari, who is frequently seen in the pictures of the temple. Let us know who is Swami Brahmavihari and what has been his contribution to Hindu Dharma so far;
1. With BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha
Swami Brahmavihari, also known as Sadhu Brahmaviharidas, is a revered sadhu initiated by HH Pramukh Swami Maharaj. He holds a prominent position as the leader of International relations for the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, a socio-spiritual voluntary Hindu organization. Regarded globally as an inspiring leader, creative thinker, motivational speaker, and a dedicated advocate for humanitarian causes, Brahmaviharidas has left an indelible mark on various prestigious projects.
2. Beginning to the spiritual path of life
Born to Gujarati immigrant parents, Swami Brahmavihari spent his formative years in Leicester, UK, excelling in both academics and sports. Despite having the opportunity to pursue studies at renowned institutions like Oxford or LSE, his spiritual calling led him to decline the conventional career path. In 1981, he traveled to India to embrace the life of a Hindu sadhu, receiving initiation from His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj during the Bhagwan Swaminarayan Bicentenary Celebrations in Ahmedabad.
3. Connection with Akshardham
Swami Brahmavihari has played pivotal roles in several noteworthy projects, including the conceptualization of the Swaminarayan Akshardham in Gandhinagar, New Delhi, and Robbinsville, NJ. He was an integral part of the core team responsible for the Neasden Mandir in London, recognized with four mentions in the Guinness Book of World Records. Additionally, he has contributed to the design and creative aspects of exhibitions at BAPS Temples in London, UK, Toronto, and Nairobi.
His influence extends to the creation of Water Spectacular Shows at Akshardham in New Delhi and Gandhinagar, as well as the Mystic India giant screen film. Guided by Mahant Swami Maharaj and senior sadhus, Swami Brahmavihari oversees devotional, cultural, humanitarian, and spiritual activities of BAPS globally.
4. In the Middle East
Currently, Swami Brahmavihari leads a historic project—the construction of the first Traditional Hindu Mandir in the Middle East, situated in Abu Dhabi. Announced by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in August 2015, the foundation stone was laid on April 20, 2019. As one of the 1200 sadhus at BAPS, he actively participates in over 160 humanitarian activities worldwide. Notably, he is the youngest member of the BAPS Core Committee, contributing to the oversight and administration of its global activities.
5. Serving Humanity
Being an integral part of the core creative team of BAPS, Swami Brahmavihari has traveled extensively, studying global cultures, histories, and philosophies. His social and spiritual endeavors have earned him the admiration and friendship of international leaders and thinkers, including Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, with whom he collaborated on several projects.
Swami Brahmavihari has also demonstrated his commitment to disaster relief activities, leading initiatives in Bhuj-Kutch after the earthquake and participating in Tsunami relief efforts in Tamil Nadu, showcasing his dedication to serving humanity.
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