Ahmedabad: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday commended the selfless service of the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) volunteers and urged them to contribute to making India a developed nation by 2047. Modi addressed the Karyakarta Sammelan of BAPS virtually, held at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Prime Minister Modi, in a video message, said, “Param Pujya Mahant Swami Maharaj, saints, other dignitaries, and the gathering of devotees at this grand stadium, I bow at the feet of Lord Swaminarayan on the occasion of the Karyakar Suvarna Mahotsav. Today marks the 103rd birth anniversary of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, and I pay my respects to him. Pramukh Swami’s teachings and resolutions are being realised today through the dedication of Param Pujya Mahant Swami. Though I could not be physically present among you, I can feel the energy of this event, with over one lakh volunteers representing the values of seeds, trees, and fruits. I bow to Param Pujya Mahant Swami and the other saints.”

PM Modi further recounted, “When the war in Ukraine escalated, the Indian government decided to immediately evacuate Indians stranded there. In the midst of planning assistance for those who reached Poland amidst the war environment, I spoke to a BAPS saint at midnight and requested help for Indians arriving in Poland. I saw how overnight, the organisation mobilised to assist those in need. Your contribution to humanity in such times is commendable, and I thank you during this Karyakar Suvarna Mahotsav. Today, BAPS volunteers are transforming the lives of millions, serving as an inspiration and earning respect and admiration.”

Highlighting BAPS’s global impact, PM Modi said, “BAPS volunteers strengthen India’s influence worldwide. With 1,800 Swaminarayan temples in 28 countries and over 21,000 spiritual centres, the world witnesses India’s spiritual heritage through these efforts. These temples symbolise India’s culture and attract everyone who connects with them. Recently, I attended the consecration of the temple in Abu Dhabi, showcasing India’s cultural diversity to the world. I extend my best wishes to all volunteers. Your remarkable achievements reflect the penance of Lord Swaminarayan. The values he established are being spread across the globe by BAPS. This work can be summarised in a song verse: Nadiya na piye kabhi apna jal, vriksh na khaye kabhi apna phal; apne dhanka, manka dujo ko jo daan hai vo saccha insaan, are is dharti ka bhagwan.”

Recalling memories with Pramukh Swami Maharaj, PM Modi said, “I have been fortunate to be connected with Lord Swaminarayan and BAPS since childhood. The love and affection I received from Pramukh Swami are treasures of my life. I have countless personal memories with him that are now a part of my life. From the time I was not a chief minister, became one, and later the prime minister, his guidance was always there. When the waters of the Narmada reached Sabarmati, Pramukh Swami came to bless the event. I fondly remember the Swaminarayan Maha Mantra Mahotsav and the subsequent Mantra Lekhan Mahotsav, which was a brilliant idea. Those moments will always remain unforgettable for me.”

Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel were also present at the event.

BAPS is a spiritual organisation driven by volunteers, focused on fostering Hindu values of faith, service, and global harmony while contributing to societal development through personal growth and service initiatives.