This pictorial presentation is a tribute to the inspiring saintly life of Brahmaswarup Shastriji Maharaj (1865-1951). From childhood, his devotion, spiritual insights and determination to uphold the truth were evident. He revived the Akshar-Purushottam Darshan doctrine revealed by Bhagwan Swaminarayan (1781-1830) in the Vachanamrut and boldly enshrined this Vedic principle in the central shrine of majestic mandirs. Today, Brahmaswaup Shastriji Maharaj is revered worldwide as the founder of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, which continues to promote this unique practical path of spirituality taught by Bhagwan Swaminarayan.

 

This concluding Part 5 depicts the intense efforts, despite his advancing age and deteriorating health, of Brahmaswarup Shastriji Maharaj to overcome countless difficulties and challenges while building the mandirs in Gondal (1933), Atladara (1945) and Gadhada (1951). Diligently assisting him were Swami Jnanjivandasji (Yogiji Maharaj), the newly initiated Swami Narayanswarupdasji (Pramukh Swami Maharaj) and a relatively small number of dedicated sadhus and devotees. The devotees expressed their utmost reverence for guru Shastriji Maharaj by honoring him in a Suvarna Tula.

With his characteristic foresight, Shastriji Maharaj secured the future growth of the Sanstha by revealing Yogiji Maharaj as his spiritual successor and appointing Pramukh Swami Maharaj as the president of BAPS.

Having thus established a firm, solid footing for the fledgling BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, Brahmaswarup Shastriji Maharaj concluded his earthly life and returned to Akshardham.