The Parliament of Victoria honored Mahamahopadhyaya Bhadreshdas Swami in recognition of his academic achievements as an eminent global scholar of Indian philosophy, beliefs, and culture who has studied Vedic literature and texts for the last 40 years.
He authored the Swaminarayan Bhashyam, a classical-style Sanskrit commentary on the ten Upanishads, the Bhagavad Gita and the Brahma Sutras in which he expounds on the distinct Akshar-Purushottam Darshan school of philosophy revealed by Bhagwan Swaminarayan. This unique Vedantic philosophy has been recognized by institutions worldwide.
In the Queen’s Hall, Bhadreshdas Swami delivered a special message in Sanskrit derived from the insights of the Satsang Diksha scripture, wherein he also appreciated the promotion of multiculturalism in the state of Victoria.
Thereafter, the Swaminarayan Bhashyam, Satsang Diksha shastra and Transcendence book were presented to the Parliamentary Library of Victoria, highlighting the growing bond between the Hindu Community and Victoria Government. The texts were received by former President of the Legislative Council, Hon. Bruce Atkinson, Shadow Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Citizenship, Mr Craig Ondarchie, Dr Tien Kieu, Member for the Legislative Council, and the Speakers Advisor, Mr Jason McDonald. BAPS also gifted the books to the manager of the Parliamentary Library and Information Service, Mrs Carolyn Macvean.
Thereafter, members of parliament and Bhadreshdas Swami had an intriguing discussion about the importance of the Sanskrit language and how it is applicable to the world today.
During the Legislative Council sitting, the Hon. Nazih Elasmar, President of the Legislative Council, acknowledged Bhadreshdas Swami and the delegation in the president’s gallery.
Bhadreshdas Swami prayed for everyone’s peace, prosperity and progress. He also gifted a memento to the president and members of parliament with a special message inscribed from His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj inspiring us all to unite and nurture global harmony collectively: “In the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, let’s reach out to extend the circle of global harmony.”