As a testament to His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s impact on people around the world, more than 800 dignitaries and guests gathered in the Sultanate of Oman to pay their tributes in a special assembly at the hall of the Hindu Mahajan Association. The evening was graced by BAPS sadhus and honoured guests – His Excellency Indramani Pandey, the Indian Ambassador to the Sultanate of Oman, Shri Anilbhai Khimji, Shri Kiranbhai Asher, Dr. Satish Nambiar, Shri Bakulbhai Mehta, Shri Ajaybhai Khimji, Shri Amitbhai Dharamsinh, Shri Dilipbhai Mehta and Shri Sharadbhai Vyas.
The evening began with auspicious shlokas, followed by an inspiring talk by Sadhu Brahmaviharidas that highlighted the universal spiritual persona of Pramukh Swami Maharaj. Next were presented awe-inspiring videos featuring Swamishri’s life and work, including tributes by spiritual and social leaders from across the world. Guests paid their tributes by remembering their personal interactions with Pramukh Swami Maharaj and his incessant love and care for humanity. Many fondly remembered Swamishri’s relief efforts in the aftermath of the Bhuj earthquake, a project in which the community in Muscat had joined with a deep sense of service.
Ambassador Pandey noted that the greatest tribute the community had offered Pramukh Swami was their adherence to his message of humanity and service. Shri Ajaybhai Khimji remembered Sri Sri Ravi Shankarji’s message deeming Pramukh Swamiji as one of the greatest sadhus of our time. Shri Bakulbhai Mehta fondly remembered Swamishri’s humility, “It is said in Sanskrit that as trees grow fruits, they bend lower to the ground. Similarly, the greater Swamishri became the more humble he was.” Respected spiritual orator Shri Sharadbhai Vyas noted, “Lord Krishna has stated in the Bhagvat that there is nothing that pleases God more than Satsang. Pramukh Swami Maharaj brought countless people closer to God with his Satsang.”
In his vote of thanks, Shri Dilipbhai first thanked Pramukh Swami Maharaj, “We must thank him for making us his family.” The assembly joined together in arti, after which each person came forward to offer a floral tribute to His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj.