On August 30, 2020 at 11:00AM local time, devotees across North America participated in a special ceremony, Prakruti Vandan, to mark the importance of taking care of nature and the environment. The spiritual head of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, requested swamis and devotees to perform a prayer for peace (Vedic Shanti Path), Pujan and Arti of a nearby tree or tulsi plant- all while adhering to coronavirus safety guidelines.
Nature and the environment are a common thread that connects all of humanity. Hindu teachings and scriptures emphasize respect and care for nature in maintaining balance and peace for all life. Mahant Swami Maharaj emphasized in his blessings, “Pramukh Swami Maharaj frequently said that if you take care of nature, nature will take care of you. He inspired people to plant hundreds of thousands of trees and guided us on how to care for nature and the environment. Let us all resolve today to protect the environment and ensure a healthy future for all.”