To celebrate His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj’s visit, a regional Bal-Balika Din was held in his divine presence in Los Angeles, CA. Children, ages 3 to 14, participated in a one-day event themed “Eva Mara Swami.” Led by enthusiastic Swamis and dedicated volunteers, programs and sessions explored the lives of Yogiji Maharaj and Pramukh Swami Maharaj in their memorable interactions with Mahant Swami Maharaj, to highlight the everlasting connection that anchored their bond of Guru-Shishya. The children participated in various parts of the program to gain an understanding of Mahant Swami Maharaj’s daily schedule and activities learning that every second of his day is enveloped in constant bhakti towards Bhagwan Swaminarayan and his gurus, Yogiji Maharaj and Pramukh Swami Maharaj. In his presence, they recited various devotional songs, Sanskrit prayers, and excerpts from Hindu scriptures expressing their bhakti.
The day was structured into three main programs with each focusing on the eternal love the Satpurush has for his devotees and how that love leads to unwavering happiness. Participants recollected memories from Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s life that illustrated the impact he had on others and learned that the same qualities are reflected in Mahant Swami Maharaj. Examples of events in Mahant Swami Maharaj’s life helped them understand that he provides the same love, care, support, and happiness as Pramukh Swami Maharaj. The attendees were given the opportunity to make a personalized pratigna, or spiritual promise, to their guru to enhance their pursuits towards personal development. The program finale featured live blessings from Mahant Swami Maharaj who encouraged the children to not only study spiritual knowledge, but to practice its application in daily life by supporting family unity, compromise, and mutual understanding to enrich their lives.