A special day for volunteers, titled ‘Mare Banvu Chhe Upasak Karyakar’, was held in the presence of Mahant Swami Maharaj on Sunday 14 May 2023 at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan, London. The theme was inspired from a letter previously written by Mahant Swami Maharaj encouraging karyakars to strengthen the spiritual understanding that guides and drives their seva.
The event consisted of skits, panel discussions and motivational speeches, as well as an interactive session with Mahant Swami Maharaj, whose vision of the ideal volunteer in the service of others provided valuable guidance to delegates from across the UK and Europe.
Volunteers from various departments began the day by singing themed bhajans during Swamishri’s puja which were introduced with heartfelt pledges to draw upon the lives of the Guru Parampara and reflect their values of selfless service and courage in their own respective seva roles.
Swamishri was formally welcomed to the event by karyakars from across the country and presented with a decorative invitation for the evening. Addressing the delegates, he explained that a true karyakar always seeks to improve and develop, and perceives virtues in others, thus serving all others with utmost humility.
Sadguru Tyagvallabhdas Swami and Anandswarupdas Swami provided further insight during a morning session with responses to searching questions from karyakars. Their discourses offered practical as well as spiritual guidance on how karyakars can serve with greater impact by drawing upon the ideal examples of the Guru Parampara.
During the evening programme, a panel of swamis and karyakars shared inspiring testimonies of volunteers from across the UK and Europe who have served with enthusiasm, dedication and conviction despite facing physical hardships. This remarkable service has led to a steady growth of satsang activities across Europe.
Mahant Swami Maharaj was welcomed to the assembly with a devotional offering of flowers from karyakars. Following his arrival, Swamishri interacted with the audience during a series of short sketches that explored relevant areas of focus for karyakars, including taking ownership and the spirit of unity and togetherness. Swamishri offered his guidance during these performances.
His personal contribution continued through a light-hearted game show that revealed important messages for karyakars. He explained that ego is the gravest obstacle in performing seva effectively and that remembering God as the all-doer is the most important thought that karyakars should imbibe in their duties.
Swamishri concluded the programme by reciting a special prayer, charging karyakars with renewed energy and motivation. The delegates thanked Swamishri by offering their personal mark of devotion and reverence at the conclusion of the event.