‘Initiation Day’ held at BAPS temple in Robbinsville, NJ, for 30 Indian American youth

October 5, 2023

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30 youths born and raised in the United States underwent Diksha Din, or initiation into the ‘sadhu’ fold, Oct. 2, 2023, at BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham temple in Robbinsville, NJ. PHOTO: Courtesy BAPS

On October 2, 2023, in a ceremony at the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in Robbinsville, New Jersey, 30 youths born and raised in the United States underwent Diksha Din, or initiation into the ‘sadhu’ fold, symbolizing a commitment to unwavering faith, unity, and devotion. This group of youths contributed physically to the construction of the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham.

“Diksha Din is not just an event; it is a testament to the indomitable spirit of these 30 young souls who have pursued diverse fields of study and professions at reputable universities and companies,” BAPS said in a press release. “Among them are individuals who are the sole children of their parents, indicating the profound sacrifice they and their families have embraced for the greater good.”

All the youths were given their Vedic initiation mantras in a ceremony led by head of BAPS Mahant Swami Maharaj, who blessed them by reiterating that “it was in your mind to serve God and society, otherwise you would not be sitting here today. There is much work to be done from here on. May you be successful on this spiritual path of attaining God through your service.”

Mahant Swami Maharaj and Sadguru Swayamprakashdas Swami oversaw the first-of-its-kind event in the USA, when over 30 American youths were initiated as Hindu Swamis (monks) Oct. 2, 2023, at Robbinsville, NJ BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham temple. PHOTO: Courtesy BAPS

Later that same day, Akshardham hosted a cultural program titled, “Celebrating Values and Non-Violence” to commemorate the International Day of Non-Violence, which coincides with the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, and honors his life and work.

Devotees and well-wishers from across North America gathered to discuss key principles of Hinduism, including truth, non-violence, and equality, the press release said.

“These same values of non-violence and peace are intrinsic to Hindu shastras, the sacred scriptures guiding the non-violent core of the Hindu faith,” BAPS said.

In his speech, Sadguru Pujya Swayamprakashdas Swami (Doctor Swami) said, “On this day of [Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary], let us take inspiration from his life: success is not achieved through mere words, but through our actions and the purity of character.”