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1. Aksharbrahman Gunatitanand Swami, Bhagwan Swaminarayan, Aksharmukta Gopalanand Swami, adorned in chandangarments, BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Sarangpur, 2-6-2008.

2. Sadhus, parshads and sadhaks happily play kartals in Swamishri’s presence, Yagnapurush Smruti Mandir, Sarangpur, 20-5-2008.3. Swamishri doing pradakshina of sacred khijdo tree, Sarangpur, 20-5-2008.Title: Bhagwan Swaminarayan, BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, Ahmedabad Photos: Sadhu Yogicharandas

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Founder: HDH Pramukh Swami MaharajEditor: Sadhu SwayamprakashdasContributors: Sadhu Vivekjivandas, Sadhu AmrutvijaydasDesigner: Sadhu ShrijiswarupdasPublished & Printed by: Swaminarayan Aksharpith,Shahibaug, Ahmedabad–380 004. India.

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Website: www.swaminarayan.orgE-mail: [email protected]

July 2008, Vol. 31 No. 7

FIRST WORDCONTENTS1. Swaminarayan History

Himraj Shah Becomes a Devotee.........4Gopalanand Swami’s yogic powers...

2. BAPS HistoryMandir Traditions ................................7Enshrining the Akshar-Purushottam philosophy...

3. Great Indian PersonalitiesKing Porus ..........................................11Hero of India...

4. DiscoursesThe Glory of God................................13God is the source of everything...

5. SpiritualityNo Such Thing as Instant Coffee .......16Nothing is achieved without efffort...

6. VicharanPramukh Swami Maharaj’s Vicharan ....18

7. Inspiring IncidentsLiving With Swamishri ............................20

8. BAPS NewsDoors Open Toronto Event.................21Morality Awareness Campaignin Schools, New Delhi ........................22

We need to think right!The quality of our lives depends more on

what we are inside than outside. But howmany of us really know this? How many of usreally look within and try to better our innerbeing?

For innumerable births we have becomeaccustomed to believing and seeing that hap-piness lies outside. Thus, we are products ofsuch repeated programming. So powerfullyingrained is this perspective that we simplycannot believe that the external world is notthe source of our happiness. Each morning,the moment we open our eyes we find whatwe see to be so real. And thus, we passionate-ly pursue what we see and believe.

This one-track thinking engages all ourimmense resources of body, mind and emo-tions in that direction. Our thoughts race out-wards in search of happiness, fame, moneyand power. But true happiness is not a prod-uct of material affluence.

If we were to look at daily life experiencesand care to ruminate upon them, we wouldrealize them to be the cause of overwhelminghavoc and pains. A faulty attitude always leadsto problems and misery. So, that is why we needto think right! We need to know how beneficialand liberating it would be to think right!Satsang helps us to think right. It helps in bend-ing, breaking and rectifying our own erroneousattitudes. And once they become right our per-spective changes; our lives become liberatedfrom the myth that governed it all these births.Satsang means guru. Through him we learn tothink right. ◆

4 Swaminarayan Bliss ◆ July 2008

Himraj ShahBecomes a Devotee

Himraj Shah was a staunch Vaishnav of Sundariyana.

At Shri Hari’s behest Gopalanand Swami went to Sundariyana.

Thereafter an interesting incident takes place which convinces

and transforms Himraj Shah...

SWAMINARAYAN HISTORY: TRANSLATION: SADHU VIVEKJIVANDAS

The vaidya came to Gopalanand Swami,who was discoursing to a congrega-tion. He greeted Swami with joined

palms and said, “Jai Shri Krishna.” GopalanandSwami reciprocated the greeting by saying, “JaiShri Krishna.” Himraj Sheth was surprised andpleased with Swami’s response.

Himraj Shah enquired of Gopalanand Swamias to what was wrong with him. “I don’t know.You are an expert in pulse checking. Here,check it.” Himraj Shah placed his fingers overSwami’s wrist. To his surprise he found nopulse. But, being a pulse expert, he saw that itwas throbbing in his neck. On placing his fin-gers on Swami’s neck, the pulse stopped. Thenhe tried to feel for it in his feet, thigh, forehead,ear and in other parts of the body, where it pul-sates. But he failed to feel it anywhere. HimrajShah was simply overwhelmed becauseGopalanand Swami was addressing the assem-bly all the while. Then he noted the pulsethrobbing in Swami’s finger. On placing his fin-ger on it, the pulse raced away. Thereafter hesaw it in Swami’s right eye. Himraj Shah washumbled by the experience. He bowed atGopalanand Swami’s feet and extolled, “Swami,

yoga of such a calibre was practised by my LordKrishna. Thereafter, I have not heard of anyyogi having accomplished such a feat. I am anexpert in the practice of yoga, therefore I amconvinced that you have mastered it and thatyou are the form of Shri Krishna.” HimrajShah’s eyes welled up with tears of joy. Histransformation amazed his sons, Vanasha andPujasha, and Dosabhai Khachar.

Gopalanand Swami replied, “Shah, I am aservant of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. You areintelligent and a Vaishnav, so I ask you to takerefuge in the supreme God. One’s soul becomesliberated only by taking the refuge of God or hisSadhu.”

For Himraj Shah the occasion turned out tobe an eye-opener. He submitted, “Make me yourdisciple. Place a kanthi around my neck andexplain to me the dos and don’ts of the Sampra-day.”

Gopalanand Swami initiated him into Sat-sang by placing a kanthi around his neck.“Since you are a staunch Vaishnav you must beobserving moral vows. Bhagwan Swaminarayanhas prescribed five vows for the householders,namely, no alcohol, no meat, no stealing, no

July 2008 ◆ Swaminarayan Bliss 5

adultery, and observance of social purity. Have afirm allegiance to him and chant his namewhile telling the rosary.”

The day marked a turning point in the life ofHimraj Shah. He told Gopalanand Swami,“Swami, my son, Vanasha, told me that whenthe right time arrives I will come to understand.By your grace my time has ripened.” HimrajShah bowed to Gopalanand Swami and took hisblessings before returning to his house as aSwaminarayan satsangi.

The news of Himraj Shah’s transformationspread rapidly through the Vaishnav community.His relatives were taken aback. They startedstreaming to his house and reproached him,“Why have you given up our forefather’s reli-gion?”

Himraj Shah replied, “When Vitthalnathjiwas born our Modh community took refuge inhim. At that time they gave up our ancestralfaith and allegiance. I have done a similarthing. Swaminarayan is an avatar of BhagwanVishnu, and having taken his refuge, I am still aVaishnav.”

The relatives and members of his communityleft with resignation, convinced that HimrajShah would not give up his new faith.

A few days later the Vaishnav acharya,Gosaiji, came to Sundariyana. The Gosaiji senteight basketfuls of prasad to the house of Him-raj Shah.

The Sheth, however, sent them back. TheGosaiji felt hurt and returned to Dhandhuka.There, he called the leading disciples of theModh community and declared, “Swaminarayanhas taken away one of our leading devoteesinto his fold. If this continues then the Vaishnavdharma will collapse. Something must be doneto remedy this. The Sheth should be convincedto return to the fold.” To this a mature and calmmember replied, “Acharya Maharaj! Presently,Swaminarayan and his sadhus are able toattract others into their fold through their char-acter and teachings. Similarly, why don’t you

adopt this practice? It behoves upon you to sus-tain the fellowship. Mahaprabhu Vitthalnathjihad established our Vaishnav organizationthrough his life and teachings. Whereas youmerely give discourses but do not consolidateour morals for attaining moksha. So what canwe do?” The Gosaiji remained silent for a while.Then he said, “You should excommunicate himbecause only then will he understand. But ifyou remain quiet and unresponsive then ourVaishnav dharma and our children shall declinespiritually.”

The Vaishnav devotees felt pity for the help-less Gosaiji. They reassured him, “Himraj Shahis an eminent businessman. By excommunicat-ing him our whole community will be upset. Wewill however take action at an opportune time.”

In Gadhada, Shri Hari celebrated the festivalof Sharad Punam. He then departed and wentto Sundariyana. Maharaj was happy to hear thatHimraj Shah had become a satsangi. He blessedthe Sheth. At that time the sadhus and devoteeswith Maharaj felt that his sadness had lifted.But then, the next moment, Maharaj reverted tohis former mood. The senior sadhu perceivedthe apparently human traits Maharaj was show-ing to be divine. They knew that Shri Hari’sactions were for the benefit and elevation of all.And that was why Gopalanand Swami remainedsilent on such occasions.

Shriji Maharaj left Sundariyana and passedthrough the villages of Tavi, Talsana andDevadiya. He was in a hurry to reach Adaraj. AtDevadiya, Jalamsinh Darbar, his relatives andthe village folk honoured Maharaj by arranginga procession. The living and seating arrange-ments were made in the hari mandir and itsprecincts. Soon Mukund Brahmachari cooked ameal and called Maharaj for dinner. ThereafterShri Hari served the devotees with kansar andmilk and declared that he wished to departearly next morning. But Jalamsinh’s mother,Keshaba insisted, “Maharaj you can leave aftertaking lunch.”


Shri Hari replied, “I am not going to staylonger than tomorrow morning. This time yourwish shall not prevail.”

Keshaba humbly beseeched, “You are Bhag-wan so how can my wish prevail before yours?But I ask that you listen to a poor woman. Inthe case of another guest I would try with allguile to prevent him from going, but before youI am helpless.”

Shri Hari smiled and added, “Your tricks willnot work on me.”

Keshaba submitted with folded hands andthen whispered, “Only after I try will you cometo see!”

The Darbar performed pujan of Maharaj andoffered a donation at his feet. Shri Hari retiredfor the night to his room. The Kathi Darbarswho had accompanied Maharaj were tired aftertheir long journey, so they too went to sleepearly.

At midnight Jalamsinh and Keshaba went tothe room of Shri Hari. Maharaj was in deepsleep. Next Keshaba went to Manki, Maharaj’smare, gently caressed her and said, “Manki, mysister, today you will have to side with me.”Manki understood her, and she did not neigh orutter a sound. Keshaba untied Manki andbrought her to a room adjacent to hers. Shetethered Manki and brought fresh grass for fod-der. Again Keshaba caressed Manki and said,“Today, you will have to uphold my pride. I hadspoken before Maharaj that he would see after Itried all means to restrain him from going. Youare my sister, aren’t you! Do not respond toMaharaj when he calls you.” Then both Keshabaand Jalamsinh closed the room and awakenedthe Brahmin cook, “Start cooking because wecan’t send Maharaj hungry early in the morn-ing.”

At pre-dawn the Kathi Darbars and parshadsawoke. They saddled their horses. Naja Bhagatwent to ready Manki, but he was shocked at herabsence. A streak of fear ran down his wholebody. He thought, “Had Maharaj left alone?”

But when he looked at Maharaj’s bed he sawthat he was in a yogic sleep. Naja ran to the sta-bles, but he could not find Manki. The anxiousNaja awakened Jalamsinh Darbar and told himnervously, “Manki is no longer tied to her stake.She is not in the stables either. Where couldManki have gone?”

Jalamsinh Bapu feigning ignorance, got upwith a start, “Where is Manki?” Jalamsinh tookhis sword and tied it to his waist. “Oh Naja Bha-gat! Such news would shatter my prestige. Whocould have taken Manki away?”

Jalamsinh rushed to the hari mandir whereMaharaj was residing. He searched everywhere.Meanwhile, Maharaj got up and finished hisdaily morning rituals hurriedly and came to thehouse of Jalamsinh. Keshaba offered herrespects and said, “Maharaj it is not yet dawn.Why are you in such a hurry?”

“I have to leave now. I have come to bid yougoodbye,” Maharaj replied.

“Well Maharaj, you will not stay despite ourwish. You are Bhagwan and all-powerful. There-fore you may depart as you wish.”

At that time Naja Bhagat arrived. Heinformed nervously, “Maharaj, Manki isnowhere to be found. Jalamsinh is still search-ing for her.”

“What did you say? Manki is not there. Thentell the Darbars to search for her. Jalamsinhalone cannot search everywhere. Tell a footprintexpert (pagi) to look for her. Who is it that hastaken Manki away?” ◆

(To be continued)


Bhagwan Swaminarayan revealed hisVedic philosophy of Akshar andPurushottam in the Vachanamrut. He

taught that one must become like Akshar, theideal devotee, and worship Purushottam,supreme God. He revealed that GunatitanandSwami was the incarnation of Akshar and that hehimself was Purushottam. This was the philoso-phy that Brahmaswarup Shastriji Maharaj strivedto promote while he was in Vartal. However, mis-guided administrators and sadhus opposed hisefforts. Such was their stiff agitation that ShastrijiMaharaj was left with no choice but to separatefrom the Vartal diocese and found theBochasanwasi Shri Akshar PurushottamSwaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS).

In Bochasan, Shastriji Maharaj enshrined themurtis of Aksharbrahman Gunatitanand Swami(Akshar) and Bhagwan Swaminarayan(Purushottam) in the central shrine for the first

time. This was in 1907. In 1916, the murti-pratishtha of the mandir in Sarangpur wasapproaching and still many continued to hinderShastriji Maharaj’s efforts. But, he perseveredundeterred.

In response to the misinformation that wasbeing spread questioning the work of ShastrijiMaharaj, Nirgundas Swami wrote an open letterto the devotees. The detailed letter not onlyreveals Nirgundas Swami’s forthright, honestand bold nature, but also soundly explains thereasons why Shastriji Maharaj was buildingmandirs and enshrining the murtis of Aksharand Purushottam. The following is a translationof his letter.

In Samvat 1962 (1905 CE), some brash sad-hus, instigated by some foolish people and with-out consulting the trustees or sadgurus, inflictedhardship upon Shastriji Maharaj, even though hewas not at fault.

After the Kartik Punam festival [in Vartal,Acharya Maharaj] refused to give an official letterof permission [to Shastriji Maharaj] to tour inthe villages. He also did not assign any sadhus tohim. Despite this, [Shastriji Maharaj] returned toVartal with some devotees for darshan on Magh-sar sud 15. Starting from the month of Posh,arrangements were made to deny [ShastrijiMaharaj] entry [into the Vartal mandir] even onthe day of Punam. As a result [Shastriji Maharaj]never went there. However, to maintain tradition,[Shastriji Maharaj] gathered devotees in differentplaces for discourses.

On the occasion of the Chaitra Punam festival,when the satsangis learned of this, they thoughtabout negotiating a compromise [between Shas-triji Maharaj and the Vartal Sanstha]. Ignoringthese efforts, the Vartal Sanstha demanded that

BAPS HISTORY: TRANSLATION: BAPS YOUTHS, USA & UK

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Sarangpur


[Shastriji Maharaj and] his fellow sadhusbe excommunicated on the night ofChaitra sud 13. [They] forced the sad-hus to sign. However, only BhimjiKothari and a few of the othertrustees signed. But, the majority,including Kothari Govardhanbhai andDolatrambhai, did not sign the ‘pro-posal to excommunicate’. Then [theopposers] began harassing [ShastrijiMaharaj] at mandirs in other villages.[Shastriji Maharaj] tolerated all this and spenthis days discoursing at the places of his beloveddevotees. And on Punam days he went to wherethe devotees called him to celebrate grand festi-vals. [They] enjoyed [his] discourses. This contin-ued for twelve months.

[In Bochasan], Shastriji Maharaj consecratedthe murtis of Swaminarayan (Akshar-Purushottam) in the middle shrine, and laid theiron-strong foundation for the constant growth [ofthis philosophy] in the future. The devotees also,without concern for public opinion, served beyondtheir capacity with body, mind and wealth.[Shastriji Maharaj] had only ten to fifteen sadhus.Even though they were very few, they travelled to thevillages to please the devotees with discourses andcarry out mandir activities at the same time. Theyendured all obstacles and served in order to pleaseGod and his devotees, and spread the supreme phi-losophy [of Akshar-Purushottam] to thousands ofpeople. As time passed, they even preached to andchanged the lives of the wild landlords from the vil-lages of Badalpur, Chanpol, Narshi, Kathana andothers on the banks of the Mahi River.

By the grace of Shriji Maharaj, the Darbar ofLimbdi donated 60 vighas (24 acres) of land inSarangpur. [Shastriji Maharaj] began to build amandir on that land. Because of the Hanumanjimandir thousands of devotees and other dis-tressed people come there to become free of theirtroubles. The reason for building the mandir isthat visitors can have darshan of the murtis ofMaharaj (Akshar-Purushottam) and develop a

firm conviction in the supreme [Akshar-Purshottam] philosophy, and that

their jivas attain liberation. In thisway, [this philosophy] will becomeinstilled in hearts of thousands and,over time, the supremacy of ShrijiMaharaj will also be established.

Even Shriji Maharaj himself hadto consecrate the murtis of other

avatars in the central shrines for the sat-isfaction of thousands. However, he has

given his true knowledge in the Vachanamrut.According to those words, we believe that ShrijiMaharaj is supreme God, and the avatari of allavatars. So now, wherever a new shikharbaddhmandir is built what is the problem with conse-crating images of the ideal devotee, Akshar(Gunatitanand Swami) with Purushottam (ShrijiMaharaj)? Yet [others] still consecrate the murtisof other avatars with the murti of SahajanandjiMaharaj. Moreover, in the mandir calendars, theywrite ‘Patotsav (anniversary) of Shri Lakshmi-Narayan Dev and other deities’, not ‘Patotsav ofShri Sahajanand Swami and other deities’. Howwill the message of Bhagwan Swaminarayanspread in this way? How will the name of [Shriji]Maharaj spread in this way in the long run?Since, if they do this, people will think that Lak-shmi-Narayan or Radha-Krishna are God and,after them, Sahajanand Swami is just an acharyaor a great personality, and that is why his murtiis consecrated.

According to Shriji Maharaj’s own words, noone other than Shriji Maharaj himself is [supreme]God. The reason is that when such powerful peopleas Gunatitanand Swami and Gopalanand Swamiare his servants, who else would be capable of beingGod? As definite proof of this, and to spread [thisknowledge] for years to come, the murtis of ShriSwaminarayan Maharaj and his choicest devotee(Gunatitanand Swami) are consecrated. And themurtis of other avatars are consecrated in the sideshrines. How fullfilling this task must be. In fact,with the aim of informing people of other beliefs

Nirgundas Swami


that Maharaj is supreme God, through great diffi-culties and tolerating honours and insults, thebuilding of a huge mandir in a great place likeSarangpur, where thousands come on their own, isunderway. Just as the Lord underwrote NarshinhMehta’s financial responsibilities, it is a great mir-acle by [Shriji] Maharaj that the mandir construc-tion is constantly going on. (It is believed thatNarshinh Mehta used to write a request and put itnear the Lord’s feet whenever he needed money forhis social responsibilities. Lord Krishna used to ful-fil all his wishes every time in some way and neverleft a single task undone.)

I don’t know what punishment God will giveto those who see faults in such a great persondoing these great, noble deeds and tolerating somuch to please God and his devotees with the sin-gle-minded purpose of spreading the glory of[Shriji] Maharaj throughout the world. Immoral-ity comes and resides in the heart of whoever seesfaults in the deeds of an ordinary devotee. I can-not imagine what will happen to one who is see-ing faults in the deeds of such a person [likeShastriji Maharaj].

Hence, I want to announce to all of the sat-sangis that if we ourselves are unable to do sometask and if someone is doing some great workthen [we should] be happy about that. Even thenthere will be many benefits. And by taking part inthat seva, one can gain so many merits. Also,God becomes extremely pleased.

Some will say that if Shriji Maharaj did notdo it, and the Nand sadhus did not do it, thenwho are you to come up with such new ideas? Inreply to that question, just think about our tradi-tion. When Shri Krishna was alive, there were nomandirs with his murtis. After four generations,Vrajnabh consecrated the murti of Krishna underthe name of Ranchhodji, a form of Vishnu withfour hands. Five thousand years later, Vallab-hacharya consecrated the murtis of Krishna him-self as a child. For the last two to three hundredyears, followers of the Radhavallabhi Sampradayhave been consecrating the murtis of Radha-

Krishna. It is now a fact that Radha-Krishna isthe God in Golok. He has become popular andmany believe in him. In the same manner, webelieve in the murtis of other avatars, but in themain middle shrine of the newly built mandirs,the murtis of Swaminarayan (Akshar-Purushot-tam) should be consecrated.

Even in our own mandirs, there are manythings that were accepted only after many years.In Gadhada, only the murti of Gopinathji wasconsecrated at first. After 33 years, the murti ofSahajanand Swami was consecrated. Also, in thesame year the murti [of Sahajanand Swami] wasconsecrated in Junagadh.

Nityanand Swami had the mandir at LakshmiVadi in Gadhada built. However, because therewas opposition, only picture murtis were conse-crated, but [the opposition] did not allow the bigstone murti of [Shriji] Maharaj to be consecrated.This was despite the fact that two acharyas andmany senior Nand sadhus were present. Then,with great effort, Viharilalji Maharaj sufferedmany hardships, and consecrated the murtis of[Shriji] Maharaj, Ichchharamji and RaghuvirjiMaharaj. Now everyone joins in the jay nad (vic-tory hail) of these murtis with enthusiasm andoffers rich food dishes [to those murtis] joyously.At first, thousands had raised doubts. However,slowly, as time passes, the truth spreads.

Some also raised the issue of why we can adornthe murti of a sadhu [Gunatitanand Swami] withornaments? In reply to that question, Nar-Narayanare also rishis and yogis, and only wear valkalclothes. However, their murtis, consecrated inAhmedabad, are offered all types of ornaments.Hanumanji is also a great ascetic, yet he is offeredthousands of rupees worth of ornaments.

Scriptures have also described the real attire ofShivji. Still, in Junagadh, where we have conse-crated his murti, golden ornaments are offered.Even Shriji Maharaj has himself adorned his ownsadhus, including Nityanand Swami and Gunati-tanand Swami, with his own golden kanthi andrich clothes as well. We should read that descrip-


tion in the shloks regarding the sadgurus writtenby Achintyanand Brahmachari.

In addition, when a sadhu or householder goesto Dham (passes away), he does not take saffronor white clothes with him. Their appearance isthat of the divine murti of Maharaj himself [inAkshardham]. So, the murtis are consecratedwith the belief that Gunatitanand Swami is nothuman but is Aksharbrahman.

Gunatitanand Swami is the incarnation ofAkshar. He was named Gunatitanand simply foridentification. However, as stated in VachanamrutGadhada I- 21, Akshar is constantly in the serviceof Purushottam. So, to identify and establish thisfact, the murtis of Akshar-Purushottam were firstconsecrated in Vadhwan. Then [they were] conse-crated in Bochasan. Now [they will be] consecrat-ed in Sarangpur, with the name ‘Swaminarayan’.There is no need for doubts in this. Hence, under-standing this in accordance with the words ofBhagwan Swaminarayan, one will experiencefountains of joy, and even while in this humanbody one will enjoy the bliss of Akshardham.

Hence, those satsangis who served with body,mind, and wealth, even at risk to their lives, andcontributed thousands of rupees to build themandir in Bochasan have again helped beyondtheir means. They have donated for the Sarang-pur mandir according to their pledges. That iswhy the mandir is being built. And now, in themonth of Vaishakh the murti-pratishtha will takeplace. So, do not miss this great chance.

Nobody should debate about this matter. Ifwe were doing all of this to create divi-sions, make someone look inferior, satis-fy our ego, win over someone, or evenattempt to become superior than theVartal-Gadhada Sanstha, then may weincur the sin of killing infiniteparamhansas. This is our deepest belief,from the bottom of our hearts.

In addition, if our allegiance is toanyone other than Bhagwan Swami-narayan himself, then may we again suf-

fer as mentioned above. I am especiallyannouncing these words publicly, toprove the sincerity in our hearts.

I request those not familiar with the traditionsand history of the Sampraday not to be misled bythe words of outsiders. Some will say that becausethe Acharya is not going to consecrate the murtis,one should not attend the celebration. In responseto that, when the murti of Gopinathji was conse-crated in Gadhada, Maharaj had gone to RadhaVav, and Nityanand Swami had performed thefirst arti. In Bhuj and Khambhat GopalanandSwami consecrated the murtis. And in Vadodara,since Bhagvatprasadji Maharaj was unable to go,another member of the Dharmakul, ViharilaljiMaharaj, even though he was not the Acharya,along with Pavitranand Swami and other sadgu-rus consecrated the murtis.

In Mumbai, Bhumanand Swami and othersadgurus have done the same, and in Chanod, thesadhus of Vartal and brahmacharis together got apious Brahmin to consecrate the murti. Then, athis convenience, Acharya [Maharaj] may go tosuch places and perform the arti. Similarly, wehave no prejudice or enmity towards anyone.Whenever he wishes, the Acharya may come hereto perform the arti.

Also, apart from our Sampraday many peopleparticipate where murtis are consecrated ormandirs are dedicated. Thousands participated inthe Babulnath Mahadev mandir in Mumbai forthat same purpose. Hence, if one receives meritsfor those ceremonies, there is nothing to lose andmuch to gain for the thousands of our own Sam-praday who will participate and partake of theprasad at the ceremony, where the murtis ofSwami and Narayan are being consecrated. Peo-ple undertake pilgrimages, have the darshan ofmany murtis, and on returning donate meals toBrahmins. They recieve the appropriate fruits oftheir actions. Hence, when such a Satpurush ishimself performing the yagna, and where thou-sands of Brahmins, sadhus and devotees will takeprasad, then one definitely benefits. ◆

Porus is the Greek rendering of Paurava,Parvata or King Puru. In India, theheart of every child and youth bubbles

with pride on hearing his name. Images of avaliant king light up in their minds, similar toMaharana Pratapsinh. Both defiantly foughttheir foreign foes; Porus on a huge elephant andthe latter on his horse, Chetak (SwaminarayanBliss, November 1999).

Porus was born in Punjab. His year of birthis not known, but the year of his death was 317BCE. His physique was extraordinary, with aheight of ‘5 cubits’ – about 7.5 ft (18 inches = 1cubit). His kingdom in Punjab was locatedbetween the rivers Jhelum and Chenab (seemap). Its capital may have been near the pre-sent-day Lahore.

After conquering the Persian empire and mod-ern Afghanistan, Alexander the Macedonian,invaded Indian soil in the spring of 326 BCE, wish-ing to be the master of “the land of milk andhoney” (India). He crossed the river Sindhu andwas warmly welcomed by Ambhi, the new king ofTakshashila. An arch enemy and neighbour ofPorus, Ambhi joined Alexander. Other Indianrulers such as another Paurava and the king ofAbhisar also submitted to Alexander without afight. When Alexander’s envoys arrived to askPorus to meet Alexander, he proudly replied thathe would do so, with arms at his own frontiers!He was made of a different mettle, fiercely deter-mined to defend his territory at all costs. He wasnot happy with his neighbouring rulers who cow-ardly submitted to the foreign invader. Thus, hewas hemmed in the front and rear by enemiesand traitors.

Porus and Alexander now prepared for theBattle of Hydaspes (Jhelum). With the river

Jhelum in flood, the two armies, each campedon opposite banks of the river watched eachother for some time. Alexander did not wish towait for it to abate, since this would providePorus an opportunity to amass his strength fromfresh alliances. Therefore he planned a shrewdstrategy. Instead of meeting Porus head on, hemoved his army to a point 17 miles upriver.After a night of torrential rain, he crossed theriver in boats hidden behind a wooded island,with a small contingent of about 11,000 menand cavalry. Here he met Porus’s son, who wasguarding the area to prevent Alexander fromoutflanking the Pauravas. With only 2,000horsemen and 120 chariots, Porus’s son was nomatch for Alexander, who defeated Porus’sarmy, and slayed his gallant son.

Now it was for Porus to face Alexander. Arri-an, the Greek chronicler estimated Porus’sarmy: 30,000 foot soldiers, 4,000 horsemen,300 chariots and 200 elephants. Porus arrangedhis army in the following formation. At thefront he placed his most dangerous unit – ofelephants – like bastions in a wall; infantry atboth ends of the line of tuskers; cavalry beyondthe infantry to guard the flanks; and chariots infront of the cavalry. Porus positioned himself atthe centre, mounted on his huge elephant.

At the sight of Porus’s army, Alexanderexclaimed, “I see at last a danger that matches mycourage, it is at once with wild beasts and men ofuncommon mettle that the contest now lies.”

However the outcome of the battle was settledby ill-fated weather conditions. Rain and stormhelped the Greeks cross the river unseen. Now onthe main battlefield, rain rendered the groundmuddy. Hence, Porus’s heavy chariots becamestuck in the muddy sloughs. The archers, with long


King PorusGREAT INDIAN PERSONALITIES: SADHU MUKUNDCHARANDAS


and heavy bows, could not easily adjust the arrowson the strings unless they rested their bows on themuddy ground. This hindered their speed, givingthe enemy enough time to attack successfully.

The Macedonian army charged with 1,000mounted archers and the cavalry breached theIndian cavalry and infantry. They started killingthe elephants’ drivers and the animals panicked,creating further chaos. Soldiers who ran back tothe base were slain by fresh Greek soldierscrossing the river under Craterus. Both sidessuffered heavy casualties. Porus’s two sons andhis great generals also died.

Porus himself fought to the end. “As long as hesaw any Indians maintaining the contest in a unit-ed body, and did not, after the manner of Darius,abandon the field and showed his men the firstexample of fight,” noted Curtius, a Greek writer.When everything was lost, Porus left the fieldwith nine wounds. At this point, an Indian with amessage from Alexander galloped after him.Porus recognized him to be the traitor-kingAmbhi of Takshashila and hurled his javelin athim. However other envoys also arrived, includ-ing his friend Meroes, to whom he surrendered.He was then taken to Alexander.

Arrian described the meeting, “Alexander,informed of his approach, rode out to meet him,accompanied by a small group of his compan-ions. When they met, he reined in his horse,

and looked at his adversary with admiration: hewas a magnificent figure of a man, over sevenfeet high and of great personal beauty; his bear-ing had lost none of its pride; his air was of onebrave man meeting another, of a king in thepresence of a king, with whom he had foughthonourably for his kingdom.”

Alexander asked him how he would like to betreated. Porus proudly replied, “As a king.” This sopleased Alexander, that he replied, “For my partyour request shall be granted. But is there notsomething you wish for yourself? Ask it.” Porusreplied, “When I said ‘as a king’ everything wascontained in that.” Such a dignified responsepleased Alexander even more, and he grantedPorus his sovereignty over his people, alongwiththe domains of fifteen republican people withtheir 5,000 cities and villages without number,between the rivers Beas and Jhelum.

After this hard-fought battle, the Macedoniansoldiers became weary and home-sick. A coupleof more fierce battles broke their morale and theyrefused to march further. Alexander appealed tothem, but in vain. With little choice, he started hisreturn journey in November 326 BCE by sailingdown the Jhelum and Sindhu.

After Alexander’s death three years later inBabylon, his successor Perdiccas, gave Porus theeastern border to defend. This was of greatstragetic importance. In 317 BCE, Eudemus, thecommander of the Macedonian forces inTakshashila, assassinated Porus in order to pro-cure his elephants. Then Porus’s son, KingMalayketu, ascended the throne with the help ofEudemus, but died soon after in the Battle ofGabiene in 317 BCE.

Porus’s personality is remarkably similar to thatof Maharana Pratapsinh of Chittor. Both possessedextraordinary physiques, remained patriotic tofiercely defend every inch of their kingdoms,earned the admiration of their foreign adversaries,and despite tactical defeat in battle, remained vic-tors in the hearts of the Indian people for all time.

◆

Alexander’sroute in India

Mandirs have existed since Vedictimes. People have been praying toGod and today, in India, we have

many mandirs. In pilgrim places, villages andcities, our traditions and dharma are based onour mandirs, shastras and sadhus. Our valueshave been preserved because of them. So, bygoing to the mandir and having the darshan ofGod our mind becomes calm. The mandir is aplace which stabilizes the mind.

The mandir is not a place to chat aboutworldly topics. By offering prayers, singing bha-jans and performing worship the mind is paci-fied. One may do many things in this world, butthe shastras reveal that for peace of mind oneneeds the strength of God; and by offeringbhakti the mind becomes peaceful.

Today, people do many things to attainpeace of mind. Some believe money bringspeace, some believe power brings peace, othersbelieve worldly possessions bring peace, somebelieve a high status brings peace, some per-form austerities for peace of mind, some prac-tice yoga, but none of these brings lastingpeace. All these bring worldly rewards, butlasting peace of mind is attained by offeringnavdha bhakti. That is why mandirs are neces-sary, because God is the only stable entity.(Whatever stability there is in the world is dueto God.) Everything in this world is continuallychanging. Land emerges from water and watersubmerges lands – Mumbai was once a smallisland, but today we see how much it hasgrown. A time may come in the future when it

On 12 December 1995, Pramukh Swami Maharaj presided over the12th Patotsav of Mumbai mandir. In his blessings to the assembly,he described the profound glory of God and how mandirs help one

to realize God’s greatness...

DISCOURSES: TRANSLATION: SADHU AMRUTVIJAYDAS



again goes under water.Even people change: we are

born, pass through childhood,youth, old age and then die. ButGod is absolutely unchanging.For him, there is no birth, nodeath. He is not subject tochange like others. He hasalways existed and will continueto exist forever.

The avatars of God manifest on this earth.We read that God takes birth, is raised by par-ents, passes through youth and old age, andthen passes away. We see and hear that Godlived for this many years and did this much andso we think he is just like us. Since he, too,passes through childhood, youth and old age,we think that he is also subject to change likeus. But, he is not subject to change.

We are born on earth as a result of ourmaterial desires and wish for sense pleasures.God has no desire for material or sense plea-sures. He manifests to help liberate the world.In fact, he is not born and nor does he passaway; but because we live in this world weimpose worldly ways on him.

If one stands before a large mirror, one seesone’s reflection in it. There is nothing in themirror, it is clean. Similarly, God is totally pure.He has no trace of maya, the world, prejudiceor deceit. He is absolutely pure.

He has none of the (worldly) feelings wehave and those that he does show are to inspirebhakti in us. That is why he behaves like us,speaks like us and works like us. If he becomeslike us, we get the joy of his darshan, companyand blessings and in this way we get liberation.

Arjun requested Shri Krishna to show himhis virat form. The Lord said there is no use inseeing that. The (human) form standing beforeyou is the one to see. But Arjun insisted, and sothe Lord showed him his virat form. The formwas so gigantic that Arjun was incapable of see-ing it. He was frightened and prayed to the

Lord to assume his human form,so that he may enjoy it.

The Lord manifested inhuman form and so gave muchbliss to the Pandavs and Arjun.God has infinite powers. He hascreated this brahmand. Ourmind is not able to understandthis creation by God. Water

floats in the air and rain falls. He has not kept awater tank up there. The water evaporates fromthe oceans to form clouds. Thus salty water isconverted to sweet water. Today, if we want todesalinate the sea water, we need so muchmachinery. It costs a lot and we get only a limit-ed amount.

When it rains, crops ripen and from thismuch trade is generated. God’s powers are suchthat we cannot comprehend. The oceans he hascreated have no boundary wall, yet remainwithin their borders. And even if man buildswalls, the oceans can flatten them. Everythingruns according to the will of God.

Humans give birth to humans. Animals andbirds give birth to their own kinds. There is nochange in this. This is also the work of God.From a drop of ‘water’ an entire human being isformed. We are not able to understand how.

Blood circulates in our bodies, yet we areunable to make even a drop of blood, and toreplace it we have to get if from others.

From the food we eat, blood is produced.What type of factory is within? What processestake place within? We do not know, but they allaffect us.

Cows eat grass and give milk. Man has alsomade many attempts to do this, but withoutsuccess.

Vivekanand Swami went to America. Therehe was taken to a slaughterhouse. A cow wasprocessed – its skin, flesh, bones and other bodyparts were separated. (The guide) said, “Seehow much we have progressed, that all theseparts of a cow can be separated.” After a little

By offering prayers,singing bhajans andperforming worship

the mind is pacified....lasting peace of mindis attained by offering

navdha bhakti.

thought, Vivekanand Swamiasked, “If you put all thesethings back into the process,will a living cow emerge? If so,then your process is fine. Oth-erwise, you are being destruc-tive. You are destroying God-created life, so that is not yourprogress – it is your downfall.”So the message is that nobodycan match God’s creation.

God gives us all these thingsin a ready form. We do notknow how and when he doesthis. He has given us this wonderful body. Theshastras state that even by giving millions ofrupees, the human body cannot be attained.Today, science has progressed and builtmachines and robots. But they are only able todo according to how we operate or programmethem. However, God has created man. He works24 hours a day for many years, but does notneed to be wound with a key. God has alreadysupplied it.

Nobody has been able to create this worldlike God has. Today, we live in the computerage. We are delighted by how much a computercan do. Enter everything into it and it quicklyprocesses it. But who has made the computer?Man has made it. He has programmed it anddone other things to it and so it works. Howev-er, man made the computer using the strengthwithin given by God. And God made man. Isn’tthis one of the amazing gifts of God? Further,God has made so many other things which areof use to us. He has made the trees, mountains,fruits and flowers, which even if we put in allour efforts we cannot make.

God creates; he sustains and nourishes; andhe also destroys. In each universe there aremany brahmands and in each brahmand, Brah-ma, Vishnu and Shiv carry out all the workaccording to God’s wish. Brahma creates every-thing. God has also made arrangements for

everyone’s food. For cows, buf-faloes and other animals thereare grass, fruits and flowers.He even caters for all people,so that by nightfall each persongets food to eat. Animals gettheir food. Insects also gettheirs. Ants get their speck offood. Elephants need manykilos of food at each meal.They, too, get their food. Godsustains creation through Vish-nu: shelter, food, clothing areall provided by him.

Paramatma inspires us from within. We feelwe have done everything. But we are not capa-ble of doing anything – not even moving a dryleaf. We feel that nothing happens without usbecause of our ego. If Paramatma within ourbody will depart, this body becomes a corpse.Hands, feet, organs may all be present, but theyare incapable of doing anything. It is because ofParamatma within that we are able to walk,talk, speak and enjoy each other’s company.

How great must God’s powers be that heowns all aspects of this brahmand? Yet, withoutus even realizing it, he operates everything. Thesun rises and sets; the moon shines. We do notcontrol this. God does. Everything happensaccording to the routine set by God.

In our state of ignorance we feel “I did this,so I got joy. I made this and I have gained hap-piness.” But, we are unable to make anything.

This is the glory of God. It is infinite andunchanging. It is never destroyed. The brah-mand perishes, but God’s work continues forev-er. God’s work is for the liberation of all jivasand if one understands this glory of God, one’smind becomes fixed on God. Then one experi-ences the highest bliss. God is the giver of bliss.For peace of mind and joy no worldly things areof any use.

◆


If the Paramatma withinour body departs, thisbody becomes a corpse.

Hands, feet, organs mayall be present, but theyare incapable of doinganything. It is becauseof Paramatma within

that we are able to walk,talk, speak and enjoyeach other’s company.


Falgun: You’re late again, Chintanbhai.Looks like your teaching duties are tiring you out.

Chintan: Yes, the kids in the class I teachare really active. I get really tired with their ‘Iwant this!’ and ‘I want that!’ Kids today justwant everything, and they want it ‘now!’

Falgun: Why blame just the kids – we’re alllike that. I want entertainment – now! I want toreach office – now! I want money – now! I wantmy coffee – now!

Chintan: But that doesn’t make sense.Everything takes time – you don’t throw amango seed into the ground and expect amango tree to pop up! It’s unreasonable toexpect things to be done immediately.

Falgun: Well, I guess we live in a fast age,and one needs things to happen quickly, eveninstantly. After all, nowadays everything is avail-able in an instant – you do have instant enter-tainment through TV and internet, instant com-munication with cellphones, instant popcornand instant coffee...

Chintan: Ah, but do you realize how muchtime it takes for all of these to be put together –for instance, how much time do you think ittakes for ‘instant’ coffee to be manufactured?

Falgun: A few seconds, a couple of min-utes, maybe?

Chintan: Yes, for you to make it from thepowder. But to manufacture the powder takesmuch more time. If you take into account that

to get coffee someone has to plant the crop,tend to it, wait for the sun and rain, pluck theseeds, dry them, process them, pack them, sendthem... it’s been a good one year’s effort that’sgone into that pack of ‘instant’ coffee.

Falgun: But I’m not bothered about all that– for me it’s just my time that matters.

Chintan: Yes, I know – when you want amango, you can just order one from the storeand get it within an hour. You’re bothered moreabout your time. But the total time that some-thing takes still has to be considered – a mangotree takes five years to give its first fruit, andthen each fruit takes a full season to mature.You get it ready in a box, but it’s taken manyyears to get there. Nothing happens instantly.You – or someone – has to work for it.

Falgun: OK, maybe fruit cannot be growninstantly. But money? That can be earned instantly!

Chintan: Ha ha! Do you think you can earnmoney in a short time? How?

Falgun: Look at my doctor – he gets a cou-ple of hundred dollars an hour. How about YoYo Ma, the renowned cellist – he could earn halfa million dollars just by performing for a coupleof hours.

Chintan: I can add to your list – the cap-tain of India’s cricket team, Dhoni, recently gotsix crore rupees ($1.5 million) for a one-monthseries – and he had fun playing!

Falgun: And there are some artists who can

SPIRITUALITY: RITESH GADHIA

No Such Thing asInstant


earn a million dollars or more for each of theirpaintings, which might take them just about aweek or a month to paint. So money can beearned pretty quickly, even if not exactly instantly.

Chintan: Is that so? An artist may paint acanvas in one month – but it has taken manyyears of learning, training and practice. So,would you say that the painting took onemonth, or is the result of many years of effort?

Falgun: Um, well, that depends... butMichael Jordan used to get millions for eachNBA series. He earned US $35 million in 2004.

Chintan: He earned it with his single-mind-ed dedication and devoting his life to the game.Each game is the work of a lifetime. It is notjust the couple of hours on court; it’s the sumtotal of all the hours of hard work – the practice– that have gone before. He doesn’t play thegame just when you’re watching – he’s at it allday, throughout the year, for many years. It’slike an exam, where you prepare for a year, butthe exam’s over in only a couple of hours.

Falgun: So it’s like the instant coffee – youdon’t see the effort that has gone into gettingthose results, so you feel that it’s an ‘instant’earning or an instant solution?

Chintan: Right. And let me add, getting mok-sha is the same! There is no instant moksha, noshortcut to liberation. There’s only one way for it.

Falgun: What is that? Chintan: Find a guru! A true guru, like Pra-

mukh Swami Maharaj. And then follow theguru. In following the guru’s wishes and com-mands, it sometimes seems that following onewish makes him happier than following hisother wishes. But it’s probably the result of allyour spiritual pursuits and devotion – not just afew actions.

Falgun: But sometimes, Swamishri seems tobecome pleased with a devotee for some smallact of devotion or service, and gives an instantreward. Isn’t that unfair on others who mighthave done much more service or devotion?

Chintan: You might feel that someone getsinstant rajipo – God’s or Swamishri’s blessings –for some small effort or contribution. But it’sprobable that we have not seen the earlier hardwork that satsangi might have done. We’re see-ing just the tip, not the full iceberg, of his orher seva. Only God or the true Sadhu knowshow much each devotee is deserving of moksha.

Falgun: So, the only short cut to moksha ispleasing God and guru?

Chintan: That’s right. The short cut isn’treally short, and might not be easy, but it’s theonly way that can take you there!

◆

Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s

16 May to 9 June 2008Sarangpur


29 May 2008, SarangpurSwamishri performed the murti-pratishtha

rituals of pujan and arti of murtis for the BAPShari mandir in Amroli, Surat. Swamishri conse-crated the murtis of Akshar-PurushottamMaharaj, Radha-Krishna Dev, Hanumanji, Gana-patiji and Guru Parampara and blessed Sunilb-hai, his brothers and other devotees.

Swamishri also consecrated a Shivling thatwould replace the old one in the Ganapatiji’sshrine in Sarangpur mandir.

1 June 2008, Sarangpur; Yogi JayantiSwamishri was in a happy, divine mood

because it was Yogi Jayanti. While Swamishriwas doing darshan and pradakshina of theSmruti Mandir, the sadhus sang “Yogi ãvo terang mune shid lagãdyo…” and played kartal.After reaching the puja stage Swamishri wasgiven the kartal and he devotionally playedthem before the murti of Yogiji Maharaj.

During puja sadhus sang bhajans in praise ofYogiji Maharaj. Thereafter Swamishri blessedthe Yogi Jayanti assembly, “ Yogiji Maharaj oftensang ‘Hãji bhalã sadhu…’ He would sway whilesinging, absorbed in the murti of Maharaj. Hepossessed all divine virtues. He was the livingform of God. There were no fallacies in him.Once, while he was travelling to a village hecould not get any water to offer Thakorji along

the way. When he came across a river he bathedThakorji in its cool waters, offered water andprayed for forgiveness. He was forever absorbedin Bhagwan’s murti, service and bhakti. Henever got angry at all. It was not in his dictio-nary. He was indifferent to honour and insult.He never thought ill of anyone. He alwaysuttered, ‘May God do good of all.’

“We have got this human birth to becomeaksharrup and offer bhakti to Purushottam. Andnot to eat and enjoy worldly pleasures.”

Swamishri was garlanded by senior sadhusand in conclusion he performed the Yogi Jayantiarti.

7 June 2008, Sarangpur; 58th PramukhVarni Din Celebration

Fifty-eight years ago today, Shastriji Maharajhad appointed Narayanswarupdas as the presi-dent of the BAPS. Senior sadhus honouredSwamishri with a flower shawl and garlands.

After his morning puja Swamishri inaugurat-ed a book on ‘Swaminarayan Sadhana’ bySadhu Brahmadarshandas.

9 June 2008, Sarangpur.Swamishri performed the murti-pratishtha

rituals of pujan and arti of murtis for the BAPShari mandir in Dhobighat, a suburb of Mahe-sana. ◆

Yogi Jayanti assembly


WAITS FOR DARSHAN19 May 2008, Tuesday, Sarangpur

Every night when Swamishri retires to bedsadhus come for his darshan. Tonight,Swamishri was a little early. The sadhus weresinging the ritual chesta in the assembly hall, alittle distance away. On seeing only a few sad-hus outside Swamishri enquired whether every-one was late. The attendant sadhus replied thateveryone was singing the chesta and that theywould come shortly. So Swamishri sat patientlywaiting on his bed. Shortly, when all the sadhusarrived Swamishri folded his palms and bid ‘JaiSwaminarayan’ to all.

Swamishri waited to fulfil everyone’s wishfor darshan and furthermore, he, too, wished tohave darshan of the sadhus. Such is the gloryhe has for all.

BHAGWAN GOES TO OTHER UNIVERSES6 June 2008, Friday, Sarangpur

Viratswarup Swami asked Swamishri, “Thesadhaks were discussing that when Swamishrisleeps he goes to another universe. What doeshe do there?”

Swamishri replied, “I do not go. It is Bhag-wan who goes and he does the work.” ThenSwamishri clarified further, “Because (all) havelove and attachment they see the form of theSadhu, but in reality he is Maharaj. It isMaharaj who goes (to other universes). Bhag-wan is the all-doer. And he resides in the Sadhuand that same Bhagwan goes to London, Ameri-

ca and everywhere. So it is Maharaj who goesand he is the all-doer.”

CARING FOR AN AILING DEVOTEEIn a telephone conversation with Kothari

Satsangijivan Swami of Ahmedabad, Swamishrisaid, “Ravjibhai* is ill. Did you go to meet himand see how he is keeping?”

“Yes. Uptil now I have gone two to threetimes.”

“That’s fine. But ask him whether he requiresanyone to look after him. If he does, then makethe arrangements.”

Satsangijivan Swami replied, “I have askedhim but he said there was no need. He is a lotbetter now. He said that since the day Baparang me up and conveyed his blessings I’m get-ting better. Otherwise I was unable to walk.”

Swamishri added, “Still ask him daily. Andhow does he manage his meals?”

Satsangijivan Swami said, “We daily send alunch box from the mandir.”

Swamishri advised, “That’s fine but tell thebhandari (sadhu who manages the kitchen) toprepare food that he likes and is suitable for him.”

Satsangijivan Swami explained, “Ravjibhaihas never complained about his food.”

Swamishri clarified, “He may not do so, butit is our duty to ask him what he prefers.”

Swamishri cares for a dedicated devotee andfor all in such detail. ◆

INSPIRING INCIDENTS: TRANSLATION: SADHU VIVEKJIVANDAS

Living WithSWAMISHRI

*Ravjibhai Patel is a dedicated devotee who has been offer-ing honorary services to the BAPS for the past twenty years.

DOORS OPEN TORONTO EVENT BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Toronto

24-25 May 2008

Opinions“All I can say is that if you only have time to visit one place on Doors Open make sure it is this one.It is definitely worth a visit.”

- Christopher Hume, Toronto Star“I feel very welcome here...It is not only breathtaking but whether you are of this religion or not, itis really an emotional experience. It is awe-inspiring...”

- Nalini Sharma, Breakfast Television“Intricate patterns and detail, stunning workmanship...both sacred and breathtaking at the same time”

- Mike Wise, CBC News“Thank you for allowing us to visit your beautiful Mandir. I am very impressed with the involve-ment of the youngsters of your community.” - A visitor


Doors Open Toronto is a yearly citywidecelebration where up to 150 Toronto

buildings of architectural, historic, cultural andsocial significance open their doors to the publicfor one weekend. The programme allows visi-tors free access to properties that are either notusually open to the public, or would normallycharge an entrance fee. Buildings that thebroader community might not know are open tothe public are also included.

Participating buildings range from heritagelandmarks to modern structures and hidden gemsand more. The 2008 event was the ninth year theCity of Toronto has presented Doors Open. Thisyear’s theme was ‘Sacred Spaces’ and BAPS ShriSwaminarayan Mandir in Toronto was selected tobe one of the premier buildings for 2008.

Specially trained BAPS children and youth

tour volunteers were on hand from early in themorning to welcome the visitors and to providetours of the mandir complex.

Visitors were greeted by the parking volun-teers. At the Mandir steps, spot guides briefedthem about the Mandir and provided guidelinesfor a comfortable visit.

In the centre foyer, visitors enjoyed traditionaland classical live music. During the on-going multi-media presentation on the creation of the Mandir,visitors also learned about the spiritual heritage andtraditions of India. They saw the uniquely designedprayer hall and the intricately carved haveli.

In the Mandir, visitors marvelled at the mag-nificent hand carved stone and marble domes andpillars. They also learned about the Hindu modeof worship by witnessing the arti ritual. Manyguests also visited the educational and entertain-ing Canadian Museum of Cultural Heritage ofIndo-Canadians and the Abhishek Mandapam.

After their visit many visitors also participat-ed in a special tree-planting ceremony in hon-our of ‘Green Spaces Day’ in Toronto.

BAPS volunteers, young and old alike,worked hand in hand to provide an unforget-table experience for the visitors. More than16,400 people of all walks of life came to visitthe Mandir during the two day event. ◆

B A P S N E W SBAPS NEWS

More than 30 members from theBal Mandals of Ahmedabad,

Mumbai and Delhi visited the differentschools of New Delhi and presented anintegrated programme of skits, speechesand multimedia presentations givingguidance to students on the ways of life.The campaign started on 21 April andconcluded on 12 May. Over 18,000 stu-dents thoroughly enjoyed and benefitedfrom this campaign. Students wereinstructed in matters such as how tothink positively, evils of television and thedangers of addictions. Teachers and par-ents appreciated the efforts of these chil-

dren to inspire morality in youngsters. ◆

MORALITY AWARENESS CAMPAIGN IN SCHOOLS7 May 2008, New Delhi

CHATURMAS NIYAMSExtra Niyams for Devotees During Chaturmas

14 July to 9 November 2008

As instructed by Bhagwan Swaminarayan in the Shikshapatri and by the wish of guruhariPramukh Swami Maharaj, devotees should undertake extra spiritual observances through the fourholy months of chaturmas. This year chaturmas is from 14 July 2008 (Ashadh sud 11) to 9 November2008 (Kartik sud 11). To please Bhagwan Swaminarayan and guruhari Pramukh Swami Maharaj, thefollowing extra observances should be undertaken:

1. One month dharna-parna, chandrayan, etc. or ek-tana during the month of Shravan (2 to 30August 2008).

2. Extra malas, dandvats, pradakshinas as per one’s faith. 3. Daily read one extra Vachanamrut and five Swamini Vato. 4. Read parts 1, 2 and 3 of Yogiji Maharaj's biography. 5. Those who do not have a copy of Yogiji Maharaj's biography should read 'Yogicharitam'. 6. In accordance with the wish of senior sadhus, read the book 'Jena Gune Rijhya Girdhari'. Also,

those who have facilities should listen to 'Pramukh Swami Maharaj's Amrutvani', Samput 12. 7. Inspire five people to give up addictions, become satsangis, attend satsang sabha and conduct

a daily ghar sabha.Note: During Chaturmas, devotees should not eat brinjals, white & red radish, sugarcane or mogri.

BAPS children after their presentation at a school


1. Swamishri performs arti of the murtis for BAPS Swaminarayan hari mandir, Amroli, 29-5-2008.2. Swamishri on stage after morning puja, 16-5-2008.3. Swamishri bows to the assembly after puja on Pramukh Varni Day. Photo of Amli Vali Pol in background, 7-6-2008.

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Swaminarayan Bliss, July 2008. Posted at Ahmedabad, P.S.O. 5th on every month. Licenced to post

without prepayment No. 155, Regd No. GAMC-703. Valid upto 31-12-2008, RNI 33411/79

Printed and Published by Sadhu Swayamprakashdas on behalf of Swaminarayan Aksharpith and Printed at Swaminarayan Mudran Mandir, Shahibaug

Road, Ahmedabad - 380 004 and Published from Swaminarayan Aksharpith, Shahibaug Road, Ahmedabad - 380 004. Editor: Sadhu Swayamprakashdas.

YOGI JAYANTI, 1 June 2008, Sarangpur1. Swamishri plays the kartals during a bhajan. 2. Swamishri blesses the Yogi Jayanti assembly.

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July 2008 Annual Subscription Rs. 60 - swaminarayan.org

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