Although Sankari is small remote village in South Gujarat, Swamishri visited it over 60 times. It has served as a major hub for BAPS satsang activities in the region.
On 3 June 1971, Pramukh Swami Maharaj consecrated the first shikharbaddha mandir in Sankari. Then, in May 2001, Swamishri performed the murti-pratishtha in the new larger shikharbaddha mandir, built to replace the old, smaller one-spired mandir.
From 12 to 19 November 2023, the Sankari Suvarna Mahotsav (50th Anniversary Celebrations) was held on a specially created Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar in the mandir campus.
During the eight days of festivities, over 260,500 people visited and were inspired by the various exhibitions, thematic shows and presentations. The attractions included;
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Exhibition on Devotion to God and Ghar Sabha (Family Assembly).
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Sankari and Satpurush: an exhibition documenting Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s efforts to promote spirituality and noble living in the region.
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‘Mandiram’ Light and Sound Show and Thematic Dance: Nightly presentations and performances depicting the history, glory and importance of mandirs over millennia.
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‘Sant Param Hitkari’ film on the life, work and messages of Pramukh Swami Maharaj.
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‘Hamara Bharat, Mera Bharat’ film conveying patriotic messages to the citizens of India.
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‘Muktanand’ film, encouraging de-addiction by explaining the damaging effect of addictions on individuals and their families.
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‘Buzo’ film showing the role of parents in moulding a child’s life, and how to show gratitude and respect to them.
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Bal Nagari – an area for children with educating and entertaining games and activities.
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Bhajan Kutirs, where men and women could privately offer devotion to God and listen to spiritual discourses.
The Pramukh Swami Maharaj Nagar remained open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. and was operated by over 1,100 volunteers.
On the evening of 19 November 2023, over 12,000 devotees attended the grand 50th anniversary celebration assembly in the presence of Pujya Bhaktipriya (Kothari) Swami.