The Prime Minister of Australia, Hon. Anthony Albanese, visited the newly inaugurated BAPS Hindu Mandir and Cultural Precinct in Kemps Creek, Sydney, to welcome His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj to Australia and participate in the auspicious Fuldol celebration.
Upon arrival, Prime Minister Albanese was warmly received at the traditionally adorned gates of the BAPS Hindu Mandir and Cultural Precinct by the board of trustees of BAPS Australia and senior BAPS volunteers. He was then guided by BAPS swamis through the precinct, where he viewed the various cultural and spiritual elements, witnessing firsthand how the precinct serves as a beacon of harmony and devotion. During his visit, he also met key community leaders, acknowledging the significant contributions of the Hindu community to Australia’s multicultural landscape.
Following these interactions, Prime Minister Albanese had a personal meeting His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, during which, on behalf of Mahant Swami Maharaj, Anandswarupdas Swami tied a nadachhadi on the prime minister’s wrist in a heartfelt gesture of goodwill, friendship, and harmony. Mr. Albanese was also honored with a garland and presented with a traditional kalash, signifying auspicious beginnings and strong connections between communities.
Thereafter, addressing the audience assembled for the auspicious Fuldol celebration, Prime Minister Albanese remarked, "One of the great joys of being prime minister of this great country is the opportunity to come to an event like this and witness the incredible devotion of communities who have given so much to our country.
"His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj comes to us with a message that is for all Australians: 'In the joy of others lies our own.' It is an honor for all of us that you have chosen Sydney to celebrate this occasion for only the second time in 115 years."
Prime Minister Albanese also expressed his admiration for the BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir and Cultural Precinct, calling it "a work in majestic progress" and reflected on Mahant Swami Maharaj’s profound sentiment upon seeing the completed phase one of the complex, "I am home." Highlighting the spirit of unity, he added, "His Holiness has actively taught that unity is strength – when hearts are united, nothing is impossible."
Before departing, Prime Minister Albanese took time to personally greet swamis and volunteers, expressing his appreciation for their dedication and selfless service.