Ahmedabad: The Sabarmati Riverfront is set to host a spectacular visual treat from December 7 to 9, when around 80 artistically crafted boats showcasing the virtues and life of Pramukh Swami Maharaj will float steadily between Sardar Bridge and Vivekanand Bridge. The themed flotilla will be visible throughout the day from both the Riverfront promenades and the Atal Bridge, and will illuminate the river with a glowing display after sunset. Lakhs of visitors are expected to witness the attraction and draw inspiration from Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s life of service and spirituality.To ensure smooth operations, a trained team of divers and swimmers will be deployed for managing power supply to the boats through generators.

Marking 75 years of Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s appointment as President of Bochasanvasi Akshar Purushottam Sanstha (BAPS) in 2025, the ‘Pramukh Varni Amrut Mahotsav’ celebration will be held at the Sabarmati Riverfront Event Centre on December 7. The event will be graced by BAPS chief Mahant Swami Maharaj, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendrabhai Patel, Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, and several other dignitaries, BAPS saints Aksharvatsal Swami and VivekJivan Swami informed at a media briefing.

Preparations have been underway for two months, with extensive parking arrangements and volunteer-led traffic management planned along the Riverfront. Over 40,000 devotees are expected to arrive by buses in a coordinated manner and will be seated by 5 p.m. Entry to the main ceremony will be strictly by invitation. The programme on Sunday, December 7, from 5.30 p.m. to 8.30 p.m., will feature presentations highlighting Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s life, service and global impact.

Those unable to attend in person can watch the event live on live.baps.org and the Aastha Bhajan TV channel from 5.30 p.m. to 8.30 p.m. (IST) on December 7.

BAPS about Pramukh Varni:

On Sunday, 21 May 1950, (Jeth Sud 4, Vikram Samvat 2006), at  5.00 pm, Shastriji Maharaj – the founder of BAPS – appointed the 28 year old Swami Narayanswarupdas, as the lifelong President of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha in the presence of the Managing Committee and other devotees at the mandir in Ambli Vali Pol, Shahpur.

Although his initiated name was Shastri Narayanswarupdas, from the moment Shastriji Maharaj appointed him as President, he became affectionately known as ‘Pramukh Swami Maharaj’ and came to reside in the hearts of millions.

On this auspicious day, Pramukh Swami Maharaj offered his heartfelt pledge:

“I pledge before you, Gurushri, and before this assembly, that I will faithfully fulfil my duties, remain completely loyal to this organisation without concern for my physical comfort, and become worthy of your grace.”

“On this auspicious day, I offer humble prayers to Guruhari that whatever strength, knowledge, and inspiration I possess is given by you. Now, for the great service you have entrusted to me, please grant me full strength and support. May all your devotees remain happy in body, mind, and wealth, continue to engage in Swamishriji’s devotion, and ultimately attain Akshardham.”

Highlights of The Sacred Landmark – Ambli Vali Pol (Yagnapurush Pol)

Ambli Vali Pol – Yagnapurush Pol – stands as BAPS’s historic site, where several defining decisions in the growth of the organisation were made.

• In 1938, Shastriji Maharaj initiated the publication of the organisation’s Gujarati monthly magazine Swaminarayan Prakash, planting the seeds of an international publishing tradition.
• In 1939, Pramukh Swami Maharaj received parshad diksha at this very place.
• In 1940, the first BAPS mandir in Ahmedabad was established here.
• In 1942 and again in 1949, Shastriji Maharaj instructed the young Pramukh Swami Maharaj to pursue Sanskrit studies at this sacred site.
• Decisions regarding the construction of the BAPS mandirs in Gadhada and Shahibaug (Ahmedabad) were also taken here.
• In 2022, during the Birth Centenary Celebrations of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, Ambli Vali Pol was renovated with the inspiration of Mahant Swami Maharaj.

To mark the completion of 75 years of Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s appointment as President in 2025, thousands of devotees have made pilgrimages to Ambli Vali Pol over the past year, offering devotion in various ways.

DeshGujarat