With the inspiration and blessings of Brahmaswarup Pramukh Swami Maharaj and Pragat Brahmaswarup Mahant Swami Maharaj, the convocation for the first batch of 68 young women (yuvatis) from across India to complete their 107-day training at the BAPS Yuvati Talim Kendra (Yuvati Training Center) at Randesan was held on Friday, 31 March 2017.
The convocation began with the welcome of the Chief Guest, Dr. Jayanti S. Ravi, who is a distinguished IAS officer and currently the Principal Secretary and Commissioner of Rural Development in Gujarat. In the presence of senior BAPS Women’s Wing volunteers, invited guests, parents of the yuvatis and the students of the BAPS Swaminarayan Vidyamandir, the yuvatis were awarded their certificates by Dr. Jayanti Ravi.
Based on her experiences with the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha and darshan of both Pramukh Swami Maharaj and Mahant Swami Maharaj, Dr. Jayanti Ravi inspired the yuvatis through a thought-provoking speech on how to carry forward the works of Pujya Pramukh Swami Maharaj and Mahant Swami Maharaj. Citing examples from ‘Transcendance’ and ‘Eternal Virtues’, she spoke on the various virtues of Pramukh Swami Maharaj. She also sang kirtans written by Narsinh Mehta, Mirabai, Sant Kabir and Tulsidas. The yuvatis and the audience were enthralled by her highly motivating speech.
Thereafter, the YTK Coordinator gave a report of the training the yuvatis had received, which was based on four core topics: Jnan (Spiritual Knowledge), Jivan (Practical Application of Knowledge in Life), Kala Kaushalya (Skills and Talents) and Seva (Service). The program included plays, interviews, mimes, dances, and a video presentation on the training and how it has changed the lives of the yuvatis.
Dr. Neeta Shah (Campus Director, Randesan) also gave guidance on how the yuvatis can practice whatever they have learnt during their training in their daily lives. Thereafter, the teachers who helped to train the yuvatis were felicitated.
The convocation assembly ended with a vote of thanks.