23 December 2001, Sunday, St. Louis, MO
Shree Swaminarayan Mandir celebrated the 81st Birthday of H.D.H. Pramukh Swami Maharaj. Kishori mandal decorated the entire Mandir. 81 candles were used in the decoration. The program was started with a multimedia presentation welcoming Swamishree. After lighting a ceremonial candle, the bal and kishore mandal sang prayers glorifying God and God realized Saint.
Senior devotees gave speeches. Their speeches exemplified the work of Swamishri towards the betterment of mankind, and his uniqueness. Swamishree’s uniqueness is not due to the fact that he has got awards for buildings most temples, or being a Guru for the past 30 years, or being recognized in the Guinness book of world records as one of the most influential person, but due to what he is doing for mankind. Even at the age of 81, in spite of numerous health problems, he has only one motto “In the joys of others, lies our own”. Thus he continues to travel from tribal huts to palaces of kings. At the end of the program everyone took part in Samuh Aarti that was followed by Mahaprasad.