To celebrate His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj’s visit to North America, six regional Bal-Balika Dins took place in his divine presence. Children, ages 3 to 14, participated in the one-day festivities themed Eva Mara Swami. Led by enthusiastic swamis and volunteers, programs and sessions explored the lives of Yogiji Maharaj and Pramukh Swami Maharaj, specifically their interactions with Mahant Swami Maharaj, and highlighted the constant connection that anchored their unbreakable bond. Mahant Swami Maharaj’s daily routine was integrated with the children’s program, allowing them to gain an understanding of his daily schedule and activities. They participated in sharing various devotional songs, Sanskrit prayers, and excerpts from Hindu scriptures, which allowed them to develop further and express their bhakti.
The day was structured into three main programs, each focusing on the eternal love that the Satpurush has for his devotees and how that love leads to eternal happiness. Participants recollected memories from Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s life that illustrated the profound impact he had on others. Examples of incidents from Mahant Swami Maharaj’s life demonstrated that he continues to provide the same love, care, support, and happiness today. Through basic concepts and explanations, the children came to understand that Pramukh Swami Maharaj and Mahant Swami Maharaj are the same. The event gave the attendees the opportunity to make a personalized pratigna, or spiritual promise, to their guru to enhance their pursuits towards personal and spiritual development. In speaking with the children, Mahant Swami encouraged the study of spiritual knowledge and more importantly, applying that knowledge in their everyday lives through model conduct and supporting family unity through compromise and understanding.