Ahmedabad (Gujarat), December 8: Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel praised India’s cultural resurgence under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, describing it as a new era marked by the mantra ‘Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi’ (Development with Heritage).
Speaking at the BAPS Karyakar Suvarna Mahotsav held at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Patel emphasized drawing inspiration from India’s heritage to build a Viksit Bharat (Developed India).
The event commemorated the 103rd birth anniversary of Pujya Pramukh Swami Maharaj and celebrated 50 years of dedicated service by Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) volunteers. Patel described the gathering as a testament to the impact of BAPS, which began with 11 volunteers and has now grown to a global network of over one lakh dedicated individuals.
A Global Symbol of Faith and Service
Highlighting BAPS’s global influence, Patel noted its Akshardham temples in Chicago, Los Angeles, Robbinsville, and the UAE as shining examples of devotion and cultural pride. He commended the organization’s role in promoting the principles of Lord Swaminarayan and elevating Hinduism’s global standing.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually addressed the gathering, lauding BAPS volunteers for amplifying India’s global presence. Reflecting on BAPS’s 50-year journey of service, Modi praised its humanitarian efforts during disasters such as the Bhuj earthquake, Kerala floods, Uttarakhand landslides, and the Ukraine war.
“BAPS volunteers consistently serve with compassion and familial spirit, embodying the essence of selfless service,” the Prime Minister remarked. He urged attendees to dedicate themselves to the progress of society and participate in the Viksit Bharat Young Leader Program to contribute toward India’s 2047 vision.
Home Minister Amit Shah on Spiritual Revolution
Union Home Minister Amit Shah described the event as a unique blend of devotion, spirituality, and social service, held at the world’s largest stadium. Recalling his personal connection with Pramukh Swami Maharaj, Shah credited the spiritual leader for inspiring transformative changes in the saintly community. Shah also praised BAPS for its extensive socio-religious contributions, including educational institutions, addiction recovery programs, and promoting virtues through its Ghar Sabha initiative.
“This spiritual revolution has positively transformed lakhs of lives. BAPS volunteers have institutionalized social service and carried forward the torch of selfless dedication,” Shah said.
A Celebration of Heritage and Progress
The event featured vibrant cultural programs, multimedia projections, LED wristbands, and inspirational speeches by senior Sadguru saints. Guests, including state ministers, MPs, MLAs, and volunteers from across India and abroad, attended the grand celebration.
Pujya Mahant Swami Maharaj, the head of BAPS, blessed the volunteers, encouraging them to continue their service. Chief Minister Patel concluded by affirming that this Amrit Kaal represents a new dawn for India, blending progress with cultural preservation, and expressed confidence in BAPS’s ongoing support for the Prime Minister’s vision of a Viksit Bharat.