Augmented Spirituality: ‘Swami Malvathi’ Blends Tradition and Tech at BAPS Festival of Inspirations

New Delhi: During the ongoing Festival of Inspirationsat the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in Robbinsville, New Jersey, a unique themed program, “Swami Malvathi” (after meeting a spiritual guru), took place on August 19, 2023.

The program was a special tribute from the teenagers to their guru, Mahant Swami Maharaj. A guru serves as a friend, a mentor, and most importantly, a guide through all moments in life. One’s relationship with the guru is one of the most transformative relationships in life. The program explored what strengthening one’s bond with the guru looks like and what it means to truly understand the guru.

The first half of the program featured young women who shared unique perspectives from their life experiences of how distance is no obstacle in forming a spiritual connection with the guru. Through reflections on heartfelt prayers offered in times of distress, service performed selflessly as inspired by their guru, and divine memories from the spiritual tours of Mahant Swami Maharaj, the participants illustrated ways in which they’ve been able to strengthen their bond with Mahant Swami Maharaj and feel his guiding presence in their lives, irrespective of distance.

During the evening assembly, students shared candid experiences as they navigated some of the most challenging years of their life, before and during college, by reflecting on the intuitive foresight and support they received through Mahant Swami Maharaj’s verbal or written guidance. The program featured an Augmented reality experience designed and implemented by the youths of BAPS.  Augmented reality is an interactive experience in which a real-world environment is enhanced with computer-generated visual elements, and sounds

The event was honored by the presence of several dignitaries, including Robbinsville Township Council President Deborah Blakely, who shared motivating words with the youth. “Our journey is to find what you are passionate about, what brings you joy and fulfills you. Use them on your journey to get involved in your community, school, and where you worship.” Dr. Chirag Patel, Co-Founder and President of Amneal Pharmaceuticals, remarked, “The world can look beautiful if you are spiritual. What you are doing here and what is passed to our generations to come is unthinkable and only can be done with the grace of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, Pramukh Swami Maharaj, and Mahant Swami Maharaj.”

During the assembly, key guests in attendance included Bharat Patel, Chairman of the Asian American Hotel Owners’ Association (AAHOA); Padmashri Dr. H.R. Shah, Chairman and CEO of TV Asia;  Dr. Gaurav Shah, CEO of Rocket Pharmaceuticals; Chirag Patel, Co-Founder and President of Amneal Pharmaceuticals; Grammy winner Falguni Shah;  and Deborah Blakely, the Robbinsville Township Council President.

In conclusion of the program, Mahant Swami Maharaj shared inspiring words with all in attendance. “The happiness and sorrows of this world will come and go for all, but if you keep your focus on prapti (spiritual attainment), then happiness and sorrows will not affect you,” he said, giving a lasting memory through loving guidance to the youth.

Watch future events from the Festival of Inspirations LIVE at https://na.baps.org.

About BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham

BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham is a landmark of Hindu architecture and culture. It stands as a symbol of unity, harmony, and selfless service and bridges the heritage of ancient India with modern America.  Created by BAPS, under the inspiration of its spiritual leaders Pramukh Swami Maharaj and Mahant Swami Maharaj, this spiritual sanctuary embodies their visionary guidance and unwavering commitment to humanity and is open to all.

Akshardham came to life through the dedication of thousands of volunteers from different walks of life and from across the globe, making it a unique expression of love. Over a span of fifteen years, this effort meticulously embraced the Hindu architectural traditions and resulted in the creation of a masterpiece that will withstand the test of time. Built to last a thousand years, Akshardham stands strong, imparting timeless messages of peace, hope, and harmony to future generations.

About BAPS

BAPS is a spiritual, volunteer-driven fellowship dedicated to improving society through individual growth, by fostering values of faith, service, and global harmony. BAPS runs on the dedication and commitment of tens of thousands of full-time and part-time volunteers from diverse professional and social backgrounds who contribute millions of volunteer hours annually. In more than 100 communities in North America and 3,500 communities worldwide, BAPS plays a pivotal role in preserving and nurturing Indian traditions and values of Hindu culture while addressing the spiritual, moral, and social challenges in the world. Under the guidance of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, BAPS’ current spiritual leader, the organization works to promote spiritual equality, advocate for social reform, and empower marginalized voices regardless of their class, race, gender, or religion.

About Mahant Swami Maharaj

His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj is the sixth and current spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. He was ordained a swami by Yogiji Maharaj in 1961 and named Sadhu Keshavjivandas. As he was appointed the head (Mahant) of the Mandir in Mumbai, he became known as Mahant Swami. His devout, humble, and service-focused life earned him the innermost blessings of Yogiji Maharaj and Pramukh Swami Maharaj. Mahant Swami Maharaj travels throughout the world inspiring people through his insightful spiritual discourses and disciplined conduct. His virtuous lifestyle and profound devotion to Bhagwan Swaminarayan and gurus are ideals toward which devotees strive. Mahant Swami Maharaj became the guru and President of BAPS upon Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s passing in 2016.