Ahmedabad: The culmination of the much-anticipated BAPS Karyakar Suvarna Mahotsav, which had resonated throughout the past year, unfolded today in grand splendour at the world’s largest Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The event celebrated the selfless services of over 100,000 volunteers through a series of breathtaking presentations.
The programme commenced with an address by a senior swami Pujya Yagnapriya Swami, who heads the BAPS volunteer corps, “Mahant Swami Maharaj had immense enthusiasm for celebrating the Karyakar Suvarna Mahotsav. He inspired the year-long events to honour and appreciate the volunteers and this mammoth event at the Narendra Modi Stadium is the culmination to express gratitude and appreciations in a fitting manner.”
Mahant Swami Maharaj was welcomed in the stadium in an artistically crafted chariot that circumambulated the stadium. He gave darshan and offered his humble pranams to all the volunteers. As the chariot advanced along the periphery of the stadium, a symbolic performance by youths depicted scattered beads being unified into a garland and rose petals transformed into golden petals as an honour to Mahant Swami Maharaj for uniting them and blessing them with purity and goodness. This heartfelt tribute and welcome beautifully expressed the volunteers’ connection with Mahant Swami Maharaj.
This unique presentation was performed by nearly 800 children and youth karyakars dressed in 550 handcrafted floral petals and 225 beads, which took nearly four months to prepare.
Subsequently, the anthem of the ‘Karyakar Suvarna Mahotsav’ energised the volunteers with unparalleled enthusiasm. The lyrics ‘Seva ki Param Jyoti Mahan’ echoed through the stadium as a magnificent floral formation unfolded in harmony with the theme. Additionally, performers artistically created formations of diyas, homes and the word ‘Swagatam’ (Welcome) in an impressive visual display. Pujya Anandswarup Swami, a senior BAPS swami, introduced the audience to the selfless dedication of the volunteers who have served the nation and society for over five decades.
Following this, Mahant Swami Maharaj, Honourable Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, and Honourable Chief Minister of Gujarat Shri Bhupendra Patel ceremonially lit the inaugural lamp to mark the commencement of the grand finale celebration. In his video message, Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi praised the selfless spirit of the volunteers, offering his heartfelt wishes and respects for the occasion.
Excerpts of his video message
“…The dedicated workforce of BAPS serves for the betterment of humanity. The volunteers of BAPS are highlighting India’s influence across the world. The mandirs of BAPS are symbols of India’s spiritual and cultural consciousness. My connection with Pramukh Swami Maharaj is an integral part of my life. Recently, the temple constructed by BAPS in Abu Dhabi has showcased India’s spiritual strength to the world. We must further promote initiatives like the ‘Ghar Sabha’ campaign for family harmony introduced by Pramukh Swami Maharaj.”
After the inauguration of several new publications commemorating the Karyakar Suvarna Mahotsav, Pujya Doctor Swami, a senior BAPS swami, addressed the gathering with inspiring insights.
The central theme of the programme, ‘Seed, Tree, Fruit,’ was brought to life through enthralling presentations. The 160×140-metre area on the stadium field was transformed into a stunning presentation screen with visual projections through 30 projectors and a series of mesmerising performances by youths.
MAIN PROGRAMME: PRESENTATIONS ON SEED, TREE, AND FRUIT
The first segment, Seed – Symbolizing The Beginning of Volunteer Activities, depicted the inception and nurturing of the selfless volunteer tradition over the past 100 years. The seeds of volunteerism were first planted by Brahmaswarup Shastriji Maharaj, the founder of BAPS, and later nurtured by Brahmaswarup Yogiji Maharaj, leading to their gradual growth and flourishment.
Presentation of the First Segment
In this segment, performers were dressed as seeds of various fruits, grains and flowers. As the seeds sprouted, they became united, disciplined, and organised.
The presentation also highlighted how Pramukh Swami Maharaj established a central administrative office and structure for volunteers in 1972, in Mumbai, to groom and engage volunteers in large-scale service activities. Later, Swamiji also inspired a parallel central office and structure for BAPS women activities.
In his address, Pujya Ishwarcharan Swami, the international convener of BAPS and a witness to the growth of its volunteer movement, shared: “When Yogiji Maharaj became the spiritual head of BAPS in 1951, he initiated children and youth activities. Through thousands of letters and personal counsellings he inspired and established children and youth forums and satsang groups. Pramukh Swami Maharaj then transformed this seed into a mighty tree.”
THE SECOND SEGMENT: THE TREE – A VALUE-BASED VOLUNTEER FORCE
This segment illustrated how the tiny seeds of selfless service grew into flourishing and sturdy trees, which meant how the BAPS volunteer activities spread across India and the world. The presentation also highlighted the inspiring stories of volunteers who remained steadfast in their duties despite facing adverse circumstances and challenges.
Presentation of the Second Segment
Videos showcasing the personal experiences of volunteers were displayed, narrating how Pramukh Swami Maharaj inspired individuals to engage in various service activities such as education, cleanliness drives, literacy campaigns, anti-addiction activities, family unity and more. The videos testimonials highlighted his care for volunteers’ personal growth, his teachings on human nature and management, and his ability to instil qualities like truth, service, faith, and humility in volunteers from all walks of life—be they farmers, scientists, or professionals, from both India and abroad.
The central ground was filled with volunteers dressed as flourishing trees and blooming plants to symbolize the robust growth of these volunteers as selfless servants. In addition, to portray the volunteers’ resilience in seva during adverse situations visual projections and physical portrayals of lightning, cyclones, and storms were presented.
Special tributes were paid to women volunteers of BAPS, highlighting their unwavering commitment to service even in challenging circumstances. Additionally, stories of volunteers who served selflessly, by overcoming financial hardships, remote terrains, and life-threatening situations, were shared through speeches and video testimonials.
THE THIRD SEGMENT: FRUIT – A SACRED AND PEACEFUL WORLD
This segment highlighted the sweet fruits of the selfless services rendered by BAPS volunteers, which have touched and transformed the lives of millions in society.
Presentation of the Third Segment
A video of BAPS’s global humanitarian initiatives featured the remarkable efforts of volunteers. Symbolic depictions of fruits growing in the sky and formations of clouds emphasised the extraordinary accomplishments of these volunteers. Flags representing 30 countries where BAPS volunteers are actively engaged in selfless service were prominently displayed, symbolising their global impact and dedication. Following this, Pujya Brahmavihari Swami, a senior BAPS swami, delivered an inspiring address:
“What better day and time to honour volunteers than today, the auspicious occasion of Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s birthday? When volunteers are selfless and the fruits of their services are for the benefit of all, then humanitarian efforts become possible on a global scale.”
He shared anecdotes reflecting the impact of BAPS volunteers. At the Swaminarayan Mandir in London, a visitor admired the haveli’s pillarless design, remarking, ‘This haveli has 5,000 volunteer-pillars.’ In the UAE, a prominent leader expressed admiration, saying, ‘We have resources, power, and planning, but we don’t have volunteers like BAPS.’
Tasks by a Large-Scale Volunteer Base
Pujya Brahmavihari Swami highlighted the unparalleled unity and dedication of volunteers during the Pramukh Swami Maharaj Shatabdi Mahotsav in Ahmedabad (2022–2023). Over 600 acres of land were transformed into a festival site, where 1.21 crore visitors gained moral, cultural and spiritual inspirations. Despite the daily gathering of millions, no untoward incidents occurred. Volunteers served with humility, feeding lakhs of people daily, and inspiring many to pledge vows like giving up addictions and fostering family unity. The 80,000 volunteers devoted themselves completely; offering their time, energy, and resources selflessly.
Tasks by a Handful of Volunteers
Even with limited numbers, BAPS volunteers made extraordinary efforts during the Ukraine war relief and rescue works. Following a request from Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on 27 February 2022, BAPS mobilised 64 volunteers across 11 countries. Within a day, relief camps were operational to provide food, warmth, and shelter to over 3,700 stranded Indians students.
Tasks by a Single Volunteer
Pujya Brahmavihari Swami also highlighted the transformative power of a single volunteer. There are countless stories of volunteers who have single-handedly effected changes, such as making villages addiction-free, dissolving superstitions and harmonizing broken families. He shared how one volunteer saved 300 lives in Lebanon during a wartime crisis, how dedicated doctors have treated millions of patients free of cost, and how social workers have arranged hostels for thousands of students. Such examples reflect the boundless spirit of service in BAPS volunteers. Following this, Honourable Chief Minister of Gujarat Shri Bhupendra Patel expressed his appreciation and reflections on the event.
Subsequently, Honourable Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah shared his experiences of BAPS volunteer seva.
A video presentation then showcased Mahant Swami Maharaj’s profound enthusiasm over the past year for honouring the volunteers and his heartfelt sentiments for the celebrations.
Thereafter Mahant Swami Maharaj provided his blessings.
Following Mahant Swami Maharaj’s address, senior swamis offered him garlands on behalf of all the volunteers. The festival concluded with the Maha Arti performed by 100,000 volunteers.Finally, children, and youth karyakars performed a vibrant dance on the lyric, ‘Karyakaranam Abhivandanam, Samarpitanam Abhivandanam,’ to express reverence and gratitude to all the volunteers.
The grand finale celebration concluded with a spectacular fusion of wristband lighting effects and special fireworks display. With spirited chants of ‘Karyakar Suvarna Mahotsav ni Jay’, the volunteers were overwhelmed and felt privileged to witness this historic occasion. They all bid adieu with a profound sense of fulfilment, inner joy and a renewed spirit to serve more. The celebration reflected an enduring impact of gratitude to those who serve and a message for all to offer seva to others. The celebration was viewed live by countless devotees and well-wishers in India and abroad through live streaming on live.baps.org and Aastha channel.
