In an emotional evening charged with love, inspiration, and tremendous joy, community leaders, devotees, and well-wishers alike filled the seats of the Smart Financial Centre in Sugar Land, TX on August 13, 2017, to celebrate the life and spiritual legacy of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj. Exactly one year ago to the day, the fifth spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan and leader of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha departed his mortal body at the age of 95. Pramukh Swami Maharaj had led the organization and served selflessly for over 66 years, inspiring the establishment of mandirs (Hindu temples) around the world, conducting humanitarian and community-building efforts, and initiating educated swamis.
The program titled “Sathe J Chhe” or Eternally With Us started with taking the audience back to August 13, 2016, where millions of people from all around the world heard the shocking news that their beloved guru had just taken his last breath. Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s eternal love and inspiration was then highlighted through videos and skit presentations. Pujya Narayanmunidas Swami touched on the divinity of Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s boundless love had no equivalent and will stay with us forever. Pujya Brahmaviharidas Swami addressed how Swamishri strove to empower the community and inspired us to live better lives and endeavor to become better versions of ourselves.
As the program continued the community leaders and devotees were brought back to the present day, where Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s eternal presence can still be felt through His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj. Mahant Swami Maharaj embodies the very same teachings, life, and legacy. All felt the joy of reviving the old memories of Pramukh Swami Maharaj and a feeling that he is still with us today through Mahant Swami Maharaj.