More than 500 kishores and kishoris attended the UK National Kishore-Kishori Mandal Shibir in the presence of Sadguru Pujya Ishwarcharan Swami on Saturday 17 September 2016 at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London.
The shibir focused on the peace that one experiences through spiritual knowledge. The key concepts were delivered through a series of discussions and discourses from sadhus and youths, as well as enlightening video presentations and kirtans.
Youths began the programme by narrating their personal interactions with Pramukh Swami Maharaj from their younger years. Their testimonies conveyed Swamishri’s untiring support and guidance that has resulted in positive outcomes at various junctures of their lives. Sadhus also shared their own experiences of Swamishri’s care and compassion.
Yogvivek Swami addressed the youths thereafter and elaborated upon the connection that Swamishri had with people from all walks of life. Ishwarcharan Swami explained how this connection with the Guru can ensure spiritual progression.
Youths sang a medley of bhajans that reinforced the inspiring messages from throughout the morning. The musical performance was accompanied with a breathtaking video compilation of Swamishri’s visits to the UK.
Mahant Swami Maharaj’s impressions on Swamishri’s forgiveness, patience and humility were conveyed through a video presentation shortly before lunch. He urged everyone to imbibe Swamishri’s qualities to strengthen their attachment to God.
After lunch, Paramtattva Swami and Paramseva Swami drew upon references from Hindu scriptures to explain the Aksharbrahma-Parabrahma theology and the purpose of Bhagwan Swaminarayan’s manifestation on earth. Manoharmurti Swami then explained the continued presence of Aksharbrahma and the spiritual merits of leading a life according to his guidelines.
A panel of youths continued this discussion by underlining the techniques of developing a bond with the Satpurush. Yogvivek Swami emphasised the importance of scriptural reading to further consolidate this attachment before recorded blessings from Mahant Swami Maharaj on this subject were also shared.
Ishwarcharan Swami energised the assembly by encouraging everyone to continue their journey of spiritual advancement. He emphasised various tools, including the forthcoming adhiveshan, as a basis to strengthen one’s knowledge and to experience the bliss of God.
High achievers from recent GCSE, A-Level and undergraduate degree programmes were recognised before the shibir concluded with reflections and prayers.