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- Published: April 8, 2025 11:15
Toronto, ON – April 5, 2025 — The Right Honourable Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada, visited the iconic BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Toronto on the auspicious occasion of Ram Navmi and Swaminarayan Jayanti, celebrating the birth anniversaries of Bhagwan Shri Ram and Bhagwan Shri Swaminarayan.
The Prime Minister was welcomed with traditional Hindu rituals, including the tying of a nada- chhadi (sacred thread) and a garland by senior BAPS swamis. He then participated in the sacred abhishek ritual of Nilkanth Varni Maharaj, offering prayers for peace and well-being across Canada and the world.
During his Mandir tour, Prime Minister Carney admired the temple’s intricate stone carvings and spiritual grandeur, and participated in the arti ceremony, offering flowers and fruits at the central shrine.
A highlight of the visit was the presentation of a special multilingual edition of the ‘Satsang Diksha’ scripture, authored by His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj.
Joined Hindu community members at the @BAPS_Toronto Mandir yesterday for the first day of Ram Navami celebrations. Thank you for sharing your traditions and culture with me. Happy Ram Navami! pic.twitter.com/dh5jFBuJIC
— Mark Carney (@MarkJCarney) April 6, 2025
A personal letter of blessings from Mahant Swami Maharaj, sent from India, was read aloud in the Prime Minister’s presence. In the heartfelt message, Mahant Swami Maharaj prayed for the Prime Minister’s leadership, and for the prosperity of Canada and all its people.
Deeply moved, the Prime Minister penned in the guest book: “With the deepest appreciation for your prayers and hospitality, and with all my conviction to work without fail to promote peace, unity, harmony, and prosperity for Canada, India, and all nations.”
Prime Minister Carney acknowledged the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir’s ongoing contributions to Canadian society, including its role in promoting community service, interfaith harmony, cultural preservation, and youth development. He expressed admiration for how the Mandir continues to be a symbol of peace, volunteerism, and national unity.
Before departing, Prime Minister Carney engaged warmly with community members and Hindu leaders, reinforcing his commitment to diversity, inclusion, and cultural harmony.