More than 1,000 lead volunteers from across the UK and parts of Europe attended the National Karyakar Shibir on Sunday 29 June 2014 at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London.
The one-day shibir was held in the presence of Bhadresh Swami, visiting from India.
Satyavrat Swami and Bhadresh Swami inaugurated the shibir with the traditional deep pragatya before the aims and objectives were outlined by Satyavrat Swami.
The shibir was based on the theme of ‘sadhana’ and focussed specifically on Man-Ganjan, the lyrical scripture composed by Nishkulanand Swami dealing with the inner battle to overcome negative aspects of the mind.
Over three introspective sessions, Bhadresh Swami expertly and lucidly elucidated the meaning of the text drawing from its many allegories, poetic illustrations and other literary devices. Relating these to everyday situations, Bhadresh Swami clearly explained how to comprehend, control and conquer the mind with the aid of the Satpurush and thereby progress spiritually to experience inner peace and bliss.
The discourses were interluded with traditional vocals by Amrutkirtan Swami who sang the couplets from the scripture to the accompaniment of musical instruments while the audience followed the words on the screens. The sessions were further interspersed with thought-provoking video presentations and interactive exercises.
There was also an opportunity in the afternoon for karyakars to gain guidance and motivation related to their specific seva role as they joined tailored sessions for their respective mandals and departments.
The shibir concluded with a compilation of video blessings from Pramukh Swami Maharaj speaking on overcoming the worldly mind and engaging it in the devotion of God.
The shibir proved to be a great success as delegates departed with increased knowledge, awareness and practical tips on tackling mental challenges useful for both spiritual and personal advancement.