1 lakh BAPS volunteers gather at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad to celebrate 50 years of volunteerism

Mumbai: Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) hosted its much-awaited 'International Karyakarta Suvarna Mahotsav' for its volunteers to commemorate 50 years of the Mumbai center of the organisation. The event celebrated the selfless services of more than 1 lakh volunteers through a series of presentations and demonstrations.

The festival, which has been ringing ever since last year, began with grandeur at the world's largest Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Saturday. At a unique get-together of BAPS volunteers, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the selfless spirit of the volunteers and expressed his warm wishes and respect for the occasion through a video message. Home Minister Amit Shah and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel joined the celebrations at the stadium.

Mahant Swami Maharaj of BAPS was welcomed into the stadium in an artistically decorated chariot, which circumambulated the stadium. As the chariot moved along the perimeter of the stadium, the scattered beads were integrated into a garland by the youth in a symbolic display and rose petals were folded into a garland in honor of Mahant Swami Maharaj and were symbolized by the spirit of purity and goodness. Blessings were given.

The unique presentation, made from 550 handmade flower petals and 225 beads by approximately 800 children and youth workers, took approximately four months to prepare. The central theme of the program 'Seeds, Trees, Fruits' was brought alive through captivating presentations. The 160×140 meter area on the stadium grounds was transformed into a spectacular presentation screen with visual projection through 30 projectors and a series of mesmerizing presentations by the youth.

1 lakh BAPS volunteers celebrate 50 years of selfless service at Karyakarta Suvarna Mahotsav at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. file photo

Yagyapriya Swami, head of BAPS volunteer group, said, “Mahant Swami Maharaj had immense enthusiasm to celebrate Karyakarta Suvarna Mahotsav. He inspired year-long programs to honor and appreciate the volunteers and this massive event at the Narendra Modi Stadium is the culmination of expressing gratitude and appreciation in the appropriate way.

After this, the song of 'Karyaka Suvarna Mahotsav' filled the volunteers with unique enthusiasm. The song 'Seva Ki Param Jyoti Mahan' echoed in the stadium as a magnificent floral arrangement in line with the theme. Additionally, the artists artistically created structures of lamps, houses and the word 'Swagtam' (Welcome) in an impressive visual display.

1 lakh BAPS volunteers celebrate 50 years of selfless service at Karyakarta Suvarna Mahotsav at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. file photo

The first section, Seed, marks the beginning of volunteer activities, depicting the beginning and nurturing of the selfless volunteer tradition over the past 100 years. The seeds of volunteerism were first sown by Brahmswaroop Shastriji Maharaj, the founder of BAPS, and were later nurtured by Brahmswaroop Yogiji Maharaj, leading to their gradual growth and flourishing.

The artists were dressed as various fruits, grains and flower seeds. As the seeds germinated, they became united, disciplined and organized. The presentation also highlighted how Pramukh Swami Maharaj established a central administrative office and structure for volunteers in Mumbai in 1972, so that volunteers could be involved in service activities on a larger scale.

Ishwar Charan Swami, international coordinator of BAPS and witness to the growth of its volunteer movement, said, “When Yogiji Maharaj became the spiritual head of BAPS in 1951, he initiated children and youth activities. Through thousands of letters and personal consultations he inspired and established children and youth forums and satsang groups. Then Pramukh Swami Maharaj transformed this seed into a mighty tree.

The second section of the 'tree' symbolizes the value-based volunteer face. This section depicts how small seeds of selfless service grew into flourishing and strong trees, which meant how BAPS volunteer activities spread across India and the world.

Videos showcasing personal experiences of the volunteers were displayed, explaining how Pramukh Swami Maharaj inspired individuals to get involved in education, cleanliness drives, literacy drives, anti-drug activities, family unity and various other service activities. Did.

The third section of 'fruit' symbolizes a holy and peaceful world. This section highlights the sweet fruits of selfless services rendered by BAPS volunteers, which have impacted and transformed the lives of millions of people in the society.

A video from BAPS' global humanitarian initiative shows the remarkable efforts of volunteers. The symbolic depiction of fruits growing in the sky and cloud formations emphasized the extraordinary achievements of these volunteers.

The festival concluded with a Maha Aarti performed by 100,000 volunteers. Children and youth workers presented a lively dance to pay homage and gratitude to all the volunteers. The grand finale ceremony concluded with a spectacular blend of wristband lighting effects and special fireworks display. The celebration was watched live by countless devotees and well-wishers in India and abroad.