BAPS’ Festival of Inspirations explores power of parenting in shaping the next generation

In an ever-changing world, the values we foster within our families stand as our enduring legacy. BAPS explored the power and complexity of parenthood through a special program titled ‘From House to Home’ at the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in Robbinsville, New Jersey. As part of the Festival of Inspirations, the program unpacked the role of a parent in shaping a child’s future with a focus on how each parent can instill morals and values in their child that will ensure their success. Honorary speakers shed light on how family values are the foundation upon which a house becomes a cherished home and how a house is not merely the walls that support it but the memories and values within it.

The program featured speeches and dramas, emphasizing the importance of family values in child-rearing. It was organized into two assemblies, with the first being spearheaded by women. The program commenced with a video in which a simple yet profound question was asked: what is at the heart of good parenting? The event showcased that ideal parenting is a delicate balance of guidance and freedom. It’s about setting boundaries while encouraging individuality. It is everyday moments in which we instill the values that will shape our children’s character. Through compelling dramas and speeches, the program highlighted how to overcome competing priorities and misconceptions that challenge the journey of parenthood.

Ways of positive parenting were discussed in a panel discussion and emphasized in a speech by Pujya Anandswarupdas Swami. Positive parenting empowers, nurtures, gives warmth, provides emotional security, and underscores the message of unconditional love. In an illuminating speech, Pujya Vivekjivandas Swami posited that parents are the emotional anchors of a home, and that the home is the foundation of any society. He recalled that His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj outlined three fundamental pillars for raising children: health, education, and values.

Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s repeated message, echoed by His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj: “A family that eats together, plays together, and prays together, stays together” served as a valuable reminder that the informal setting of the dinner table is when bonding and binding take place within families. Finally, the most impactful lesson of the evening for parents was to steer away from comparing their child to others, as this not only makes the child question a parent’s love for them, but also plants the seeds of inferiority within, which carries throughout their lives.

The program welcomed distinguished guests, including Mr. Vincent Lima, Managing Director at Moelis & Company. He has an extensive career in investment banking and is also a dedicated member of the community working with New Jersey SEEDS, a non-profit program transforming educational opportunities for high-achieving students from low-income families. Remarking on his first visit to the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham and participating in the evening program, Mr. Lima said “When I think about the volunteer efforts that built this incredible sanctuary of peace, it really warms my heart. You should be so proud. To have a place of peace and harmony is really what the world needs today.”

The evening concluded with a speech by His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj’s on the most important and universal lessons a parent can imbibe, “The biggest responsibility is to give your children unconditional love and affection, and that cannot be accomplished by looking at others as a benchmark. When planting trees, the right kind of care can help it grow, but by twisting out the roots, its growth is stunted indefinitely. In the same way, we need to give the right type of care, nourishment and love to children. Do not rush, rushing the journey ruins everything; rather raise your children in such a way that they have time to blossom.” The audience was reminded that in a rapidly changing world, one thing remains constant and crucial: the values we instill in our families are the legacy we will pass on, shaping generations to come.

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.