In 2024, BAPS North America proudly celebrates its golden jubilee, marking 50 years since His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj inaugurated its first mandir in New York City on August 3, 1974. This landmark event fulfilled Yogiji Maharaj’s divine vision of establishing BAPS Satsang on the North American continent.
For half a century, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in the New York City area has transcended its role as a place of worship. It has become a cornerstone of the community, fostering spiritual growth, cultural preservation, and selfless service. Since its inception, the Mandir has welcomed countless individuals, offering them a space to connect with their heritage, deepen their faith, and engage in meaningful service. The Mandir has enriched lives, strengthened families, and built a vibrant, cohesive community through its diverse programs. For many years, the Mandir served as the headquarters of BAPS North America, playing a pivotal role in shaping the organization into its current form under the guidance of Pramukh Swami Maharaj.
From its modest beginnings in a small New York home, BAPS has experienced remarkable growth over the past five decades. Today, the continent is home to more than 115 mandirs, including six traditional stone-carved mandirs and the grand BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in Robbinsville, New Jersey—the largest Hindu Mandir in the Western Hemisphere.
Celebrations were organized over three weekends to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, New York. The event spanned ten sessions across five days, bringing thousands of devotees from across the nation. The celebration's overarching theme was “Foundation of Faith – Sankalp. Sarjan. Smruti.”
The ‘Sankalp’ segment highlighted Yogiji Maharaj’s divine vision of establishing a mandir in New York and expanding satsang in North America. Through engaging dramas, testimonials, and videos, attendees learned about the acquisition of the mandir land and the history of the murtis from 1974, 1984, and 2004. This segment culminated in the grand unveiling of all three sets of murtis that have graced New York over the years.
The ‘Sarjan’ segment highlighted the growth of satsang in North America, starting in New York. A volunteer-curated exhibition displayed key moments, including models of early satsang venues, a replica of Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s 1977 travel car, and recordings of his voice.
Lastly, the ‘Smruti’ segment reflected on Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s deep connection with New York, where he visited 13 times, calling it his home. BAPS youth performed a heartfelt tribute, celebrating his lasting impact, and concluding with gratitude for Mahant Swami Maharaj’s leadership. The celebration ended with deep appreciation for Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s greatest gift to the satsang community— His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj.
A distinguished lineup of dignitaries and community leaders graced the event. Among the notable attendees were Binaya Shrikanta Pradhan, Consul General of India in New York, Dr. Varun Jeph, Deputy Consul General, Congressman Tom Suozzi, New York State Assemblymen Edward Braunstein and Ron Kim, State Senator John Liu, and Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. Religious and community leaders, including Pujya Chaitanyanand Swami and Mr. Jagannath Rao from ISKCON, Sister BK Tina from the Brahma Kumaris, and Shiva Acharya, were also in attendance.
Congressman Tom Suozzi (NY-3) expressed his admiration for this milestone, saying, “The journey of BAPS is remarkable.” He presented the organization with a U.S. Capitol flag flown in honor of BAPS’s 50 years of service and dedication.
Earlier this year, the New York State Senate and Assembly passed resolutions commemorating the 50th anniversary of BAPS’s first mandir in North America. The resolutions, sponsored by Senator John Liu and Assemblymember Nily Rozic, celebrated BAPS’s spiritual, social, and community contributions.
Attendees shared personal reflections on the significance of the celebrations: “When we started with a single mandir in a basement back in 1974, we never imagined that BAPS would grow to over 115 mandirs worldwide, including the largest mandir in the Western Hemisphere, BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham. I am overjoyed to be here, participating in this event. It’s incredible how many lives have been transformed by this initiative of Pramukh Swami Maharaj and Mahant Swami Maharaj,” said Kishore Mehta from Houston, the lead volunteer for BAPS activities in 1974.
“The NY50 celebrations help us realize that the seed sown 50 years ago has blossomed into a beautiful tree, gifting society Akshardham in Robbinsville,” shared Smruti Brahmbhatt from Robbinsville, NJ.
“We had an amazing experience walking down memory lane during this celebration. These 50 years have transformed society, thanks to Pramukh Swami Maharaj for providing a foundation of culture and respect, where my children have benefited immensely,” shared Tushar Patel from Orlando, FL.
“Whether it's Ukraine or Kutch, I’ve seen BAPS be the first to serve the impacted people, pouring out their hearts. I am glad to be here at the 50-year celebration. The concept to creation and the narration of BAPS NY50 was absolutely phenomenal, showcasing the same spirit of service and dedication,” remarked Dr. Parag Mehta, NY.
The 50th-anniversary celebrations in Flushing, NY, mark the beginning of similar events across the U.S. and Canada, continuing to showcase BAPS’s dedication to fostering community, spirituality, and service.