The World is One Family: Life and Message of Pramukh Swami Maharaj

The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) is a worldwide spiritual and humanitarian organization that is dedicated to community service, peace, and harmony. BAPS is in Consultative Status to the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) granted by the United Nations (UN) in 2000. Motivated by Hindu principles, BAPS strives to care for the world by caring for societies, families, and individuals. Through various spiritual and humanitarian activities conducted at over 3,300 international centers under the current leadership of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, BAPS aspires to improve the well-being of our communities and is working actively to further several of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj served as President of BAPS for over 50 years. He was a rare individual who always lived for others. His striking humility, noble services, and selfless desire to help all won him the love of everyone. With genuine care and compassion, he reached out to all members of society irrespective of class, color, or age. Recognized and respected as one of India's greatest spiritual teachers, he truly lived and taught the principle that the world is one family.

Pramukh Swami Maharaj was able to understand the needs of society and focused his life and work to uplift communities in the following ways.

During his lifetime, Pramukh Swami Maharaj responded to over 20 natural disasters in India and abroad, inspiring volunteers to contribute their time and money to deliver relief to more than 6 million people worldwide.

Many forms of medical services were created and organized by Pramukh Swami Maharaj to help those with insufficient means. He supported healthy living through education, preventative care, and affordable treatment. Each year, BAPS mobile clinics treat hundreds of thousands of people free of charge in the tribal and rural areas of India. Pramukh Swami Maharaj built hospitals and dispensaries and organized health fairs and other health-related services.

Pramukh Swami Maharaj has been a tireless champion of education, and especially women’s education. Through Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s personal involvement and the various efforts of BAPS guided by him, thousands of youths have been inspired to become the best version of themselves, creating the foundation for a better society. He has created an environment where everyone – male and female – is made to feel as if they are a leader and can make a difference. This is true empowerment, and through it, he has inspired women to serve society selflessly as dedicated citizens and volunteers; lead and execute various humanitarian and social projects; preserve culture and heritage; and promote personal development.

Pramukh Swami Maharaj always had the spirit of service at the forefront. In times of adversity, he has assisted society, and in times of peace he has strengthened society. His every moment was lived for others, without distinctions of caste, nationality, or faith. Distinguished world leaders and dignitaries have praised Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s outstanding contributions. During his speech at the United Nations in 2000 at the Millennium World Peace Summit, Pramukh Swami Maharaj spoke to leaders on the importance of seeing the world as one through creating harmony with ourselves, others, and communities at large.

This year, we recognize his impactful life and legacy as we celebrate the centennial of his birthday.

1. To present and discuss the impact and legacy of Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s life and work.

2. To celebrate Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s centennial birthday at the United Nations.

This event is co-organized by the Permanent Mission of India to the UN and BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, an NGO in consultative status with ECOSOC.

The one-hour event will combine live speakers along with videos to showcase the impact of Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s life work. Speakers will include a keynote address by Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj, the Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations, as well as several volunteers of BAPS who have been personally inspired by Pramukh Swami Maharaj to actively give back to the communities in which they live.