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Revision as of 17:14, 6 July 2005 by Goethean (talk | contribs) (→Mission statement)(diff) ← Previous revision | Latest revision (diff) | Newer revision → (diff)Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha or BAPS is a branch of the Hindu Swaminarayan sect with more than 1,000,000 followers worldwide and a greater presence outside South Asia than any other Hindu group. Formally established as BSS (Bochasanwasi Shri Swaminarayan Sanstha, later becoming BAPS) on June 5, 1907 CE by Swami Yagnapurushdas, BAPS describes itself as "a socio-spiritual organization with its roots in the Vedas, revealed by Bhagwan Swaminarayan in the late 18th century."
Mission statement
- "Founded on the pillars of practical spirituality, it reaches out far and wide to clear the confusions and questions in our moral, social and material world of today. Its strength lies in the purity of its nature and purpose. The Sanstha strives to better the world by consolidating character in societies, families and individuals. This is done not just by mottos and slogans but by mass motivation and individual attention, through elevating projects for all, irrespective of class, creed, color and country. The Sanstha's universal work has received many national welfare awards and the affiliation to the United Nations. Its international network has flourished into 9,090 Youth, Children and Women centers, over 700 sadhus, 55,000 volunteers and the dedication of over one million followers.
- "The hallmark of the Swaminarayan devotee is that he or she devoutly begins the day with puja and meditation, works or studies honestly and donates regular hours in serving others. He/she observes the five principal vows: No Stealing, No Adultery, No Alcohol, No Meat, No Impurity of body and mind. Such moral purity and spiritual surety add a deeper brilliance to all the hundreds of social services performed for a better life. "
Today the Sanstha is led by Pramukh Swami Maharaj. Pujya Pramukh Swami Maharaj is the fifth spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan and the present leader of Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha. According to his followers, he represents the essence of Hinduism, leading an austere life of complete celibacy, without personal wealth or comfort. His compassion for humanity, universal wisdom and striking simplicity have touched many world religious and national leaders.
Part of BAPS' success lies in its approach, which is characteristic of other monotheistic religions — namely their centralization and huge organizational strength, their emphasis on community, their notions of salvation through belief in Sahajanand Swami Maharaj as supreme Lord, adherence to strict doctrine, and even trace elements of proselytization. Many mainstream Hindus find themselves attracted to this and start identifying with BAPS. Although some see only minor theological implications in such a conversion, others see the doctrinal differences as quite distinct. The fact that BAPS devotees worship Swaminayaran Bhagwan as higher than Sri Ram or Sri Krishna is quite alarming to most traditional Hindus.
On Saturday 8 July 2000, Shree Swaminarayan Mandir, Neasden, London was the venue for a unique ceremony. Four thousand devotees and guests proudly witnessed the presentation of certificates for two world records to His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj. The Managing Editor of Guinness Book of Records, Mr Tim Footman presented His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj with certificates marking his entries into the world famous record book. The first certificate presented to His Holiness was for building and inspiring the largest traditional Hindu Mandir outside India. The second certificate marked a record 355 Temple Consecration Ceremonies performed by His Holiness between April 1971 and May 2000.
BAPS financed and produced the 2004 IMAX film, Mystic India, which retraces the 12,000 km barefoot journey throughout 18th century India undertaken by Swaminarayan (then known as Nilkanth) at age 11.
Critique
Farhana Ibrahim has accused BAPS of working too closely with the Hindu nationalist BJP administration of Gujurat.
External links
- Guiness World Records
- Mahant Swami
- Kakaji
- BAPS Care International, a 501(c)(3) charity founded by BAPS
