BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir celebrates 50th anniversary

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In 1974, the first mandir of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha in North America was inaugurated by its spiritual leader Pramukh Swami Maharaj in Flushing, New York. This year, BAPS commemorated 50 years of spiritual upliftment, community service, and cultural preservation through a grand celebration held in the same city where it all began, a September 30, press release from the temple said.

The celebrations spanned two weekends and attracted thousands of visitors from across the country. The event highlighted BAPS’s journey, which began with a few devotees and grew into a prominent Hindu organization in the United States, with over 115 mandirs across North America. An interactive exhibition showcased BAPS’s history and contributions over the past five decades.

Honoring this milestone, Congressman Tom Suozzi (NY-3) shared his admiration, saying, “The journey of BAPS is remarkable.” Congressman Suozzi presented the organization with a U.S. Capitol flag flown in honor of BAPS’s 50 years of service and dedication.

The current spiritual leader, Mahant Swami Maharaj, sent his blessings from India. Inspired by his leadership, 12,500 volunteers worked tirelessly to construct BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Jersey, the press release said.

Attendees shared personal reflections on the significance of the celebrations:

“When we started with a single mandir in a basement back in 1974, we never imagined that BAPS would grow to over 115 mandirs worldwide, including the largest mandir in the Western Hemisphere, BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham. I am overjoyed to be here, participating in this event. It’s incredible how many lives have been transformed by this initiative of Pramukh Swami Maharaj and Mahant Swami Maharaj,” said Kishore Mehta from Houston, who was the lead volunteer for BAPS activities in 1974.

“The NY50 celebrations help us realize that the seed sown 50 years ago has blossomed into a beautiful tree, gifting society Akshardham in Robbinsville,” said Smruti Brahmbhatt from Robbinsville, NJ.

“We had an amazing experience walking down memory lane during this celebration. These 50 years have transformed society, thanks to Pramukh Swami Maharaj for providing a foundation of culture and respect, where my children have benefited immensely,” shared Tushar Patel from Orlando, FL.

“Whether it’s Ukraine or Kutch, I’ve seen BAPS be the first to serve the impacted people, pouring out their hearts. I am glad to be here at the 50-year celebration. The concept to creation and the narration of BAPS NY50 was absolutely phenomenal, showcasing the same spirit of service and dedication,” remarked Dr. Parag Mehta, NY.

Earlier this year, the New York State Senate and Assembly passed resolutions commemorating the 50th anniversary of BAPS’s first mandir in North America. The resolutions sponsored by Senator John Liu and Assemblymember Nily Rozic.

“The BAPS mandir has been a cornerstone of the Hindu community, serving the spiritual, social, and community needs of so many, and we are proud to commemorate their tremendous commitments to serving the needs of others,” said Sen. Liu.

Assemblymember Rozic added, “It’s an honor to recognize the BAPS Mandir on their 50th anniversary. For 50 years, the Mandir has been a center for worship, cultural heritage, and community service.”

The 50th anniversary celebrations in Flushing, NY mark the beginning of similar events across the U.S. and Canada, continuing to showcase BAPS’s dedication to fostering community, spirituality, and service.