As part of the centenary celebrations of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute was inaugurated in the presence of Mahamahopadhyay Bhadreshdas Swami, BAPS swamis, Professor William Pallangyo (Senior lecturer of leadership and management at the Law School of Tanzania), Captain Ibhrahim Bendera (Advocate of the High Court of Tanzania) , Mr. Idd Mandi (Senior lecturer at University of Dar es Salaam), representatives from various Hindu communities, and BAPS devotees.
The BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute is dedicated to advancing quality research, learning, and the expression of Hinduism, its traditons, philosophies, languages and rich body of literature. The Institute will strive to foster social harmony, interfaith dialogue, public engagement, and academic discourse through its value-based education, innovative research, and creative expression
The ceremony began with swamis and invited dignitaries lighting the inaugural lamp (deep-pragatya), symbolizing the spreading of the light of knowledge throughout the world.
During his keynote speech, Bhadreshdas Swami said, "India has a vast collection of knowledge and with the opening of BAPS Swaminarayan Institute, this knowledge would be shared in this part of the world as well.”
The chief guest, Professor William Pallangyo, appreciated BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha for this initiative and pledged his full support.
Captain Ibhrahim Bendera said in his speech that the main objective of this research institute is to promote universal harmony and is an amazing addition to our country.
Snehalbhai Bakrania, Chairman of Shri Hindu Mandal, donated his collection of 3,400 Hindu shastras and texts to the BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute.
Mr. Idd Mandi, a senior lecturer at University of Dar es Salaam, said, “The Central vision of this institute is to bring light and togetherness at a time of great division in the world. We need more of this and we applaud your leadership. I want to recognize the wonderful work of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha in Tanzania.”