Amid the G20 Summit, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his spouse Akshata Murty paid a visit to the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple in New Delhi on a Sunday. During their tour, they engaged in conversations with the temple's Swamis, who offered them an in-depth introduction to this expansive spiritual and cultural complex spanning 100 acres
Taking charge of the diplomatic aspects of the visit was Brahmavihari Swami, a respected senior swami affiliated with the Akshardham Temple. He extended a warm welcome to Rishi Sunak and underscored the message of peace, unity, and a commitment to public service as advocated by Mahant Swami Maharaj, the leader of the Akshardham Temple
Brahmavihari Swami, also known as Sadhu Brahmaviharidas, is a dedicated sadhu who received initiation from HH Pramukh Swami Maharaj. He serves as the leader of International Relations for BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, a voluntary Hindu organization with a strong focus on socio-spiritual activities. On the global stage, Brahmavihari Swami is recognized as an inspirational figure, a visionary thinker, a compelling motivational speaker, and an unwavering advocate for humanitarian endeavours
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Brahmaviharidas was born to Gujarati immigrant parents in Leicester, UK, where he excelled both academically and in sports. Despite the opportunity to study at prestigious institutions like Oxford or LSE, his spiritual calling led him to embark on a life-altering journey to India in 1981, where he sought initiation as a Hindu sadhu
On the momentous date of 12th April 1981, during the Bhagwan Swaminarayan Bicentenary Celebrations in Ahmedabad, Brahmavihari Swami received his initiation as a Swami from the revered Pramukh Swami Maharaj
Brahmavihari Swami emerged as a visionary force behind several iconic projects, including the conceptualisation of Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi and Robbinsville, NJ. His involvement in the Neasden Mandir in London, which secured four mentions in the Guinness Book of World Records, showcases his creative genius
Brahmavihari Swami's not only designed but also provided creative write-ups for exhibitions at BAPS Temples in London, UK, Toronto, and Nairobi. Furthermore, he played a crucial role in the creation of Spectacular Water Shows and the impressive Mystic India giant screen film inside the Akshardham Temple in Delhi
Under the guidance of Mahant Swami Maharaj and senior sadhus, Brahmavihari Swami actively participates in overseeing the devotional, cultural, humanitarian, and spiritual activities of BAPS, emphasizing his multifaceted leadership
Brahmavihari Swami is currently leading an historic project—the construction of the first Traditional Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi. Announced by Indian PM Narendra Modi in 2015, the foundation stone was laid in April 2019. This mandir represents a harmonious blend of simplicity and spirituality
Brahmavihari Swami's commitment to promoting peace and tolerance has led him to attend multiple international conferences on these subjects. He notably delivered the inaugural address at the Global Conference of Human Fraternity in Abu Dhabi, concluding with a momentous presence by HH Pope Francis
His extensive social and spiritual work has cultivated deep friendships and respect from international leaders and thinkers, such as the late Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, with whom he collaborated on various projects
Brahmavihari Swami's compassionate spirit extends to disaster relief activities. He took charge of relief efforts during the devastating earthquake in Bhuj-Kutch and the heart-wrenching Tsunami relief in Tamil Nadu, showcasing his dedication to humanitarian causes
Despite being the youngest member, Brahmavihari Swami plays an instrumental role in the BAPS Core Committee, actively contributing to the oversight and administration of the organisation’s global activities
Brahmavihari Swami's life embodies the harmonious convergence of simplicity and spirituality. His enduring legacy is one of boundless compassion and selfless service to humanity, inspiring people worldwide to follow in his footsteps