Under the auspices of the Brahmaswarup Pramukh Swami Maharaj Centenary Celebrations, Krantiguru Shyamji Krishna Verma Kutch University, Bhuj-Kutch, in association with AARSH Research Institute, Swaminarayan Akshardham, Gandhinagar, organized a seminar on the topic ‘Earthquake Relief Work by Pramukh Swami Maharaj’ at the Town Hall, Bhuj-Kutch.
The seminar was chaired by the Vice Chancellor of the Krantiguru Shyamji Krishna Verma Kutch University, Bhuj-Kutch, Professor Dr. Jairajsinh D. Jadeja.
Following inaugural prayers and the traditional lighting of the lamp, a video highlighting Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s exemplary planning, decision-making and foresight was shown.
Thereafter, through an online video speech, Brahmaviharidas Swami of BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, Abu Dhabi, UAE, highlighted that under the guidance of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha rendered commendable services in the revival of the earthquake-hit areas of Bhuj in 2001. Pramukh Swami Maharaj took personal interest and care to effectively coordinate this relief work.
The second speaker, Vedchintandas Swami, BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, Sarangpur, highlighted that BAPS sadhus and volunteers worked day and night in this mammoth rescue and relief operation to provide shelter, food, and medicines for the victims and rescue workers in Bhuj. Food packets prepared at all major BAPS centers were sent to the affected areas and a special shipment containing over 350 tons of essential supplies was also sent to Bhuj – the worst affected area. Medical camps and blood donation camps were set up in these areas. Moreover, BAPS volunteers also helped the local authorities to restore postal and telephone services.
Atmamanandas Swami, BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, Sarangpur, then spoke about the extensive rehabilitation work carried out by BAPS in the earthquake-affected areas. Under the guidance of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, BAPS rebuilt over 2,000 homes in 8 villages and a colony in Bhuj to cater for the local people and community. BAPS relief operations in the earthquake-affected areas provided timely, emergency and long term physical, emotional and spiritual support to the earthquake-affected people.
Other dignitaries present on this occasion included the Controller of Examinations of the Krantiguru Shyamji Krishna Verma Kutch University, Bhuj-Kutch, Dr. Tejas Sheth; the Government Authorized Pleader Public Prosecutor of Kutch District, Dr. Kalpesh Goswami; and Director of AARSH, Dr. Shrutiprakashdas Swami.
The seminar was broadcast live on the university website.