Our Bureau
Malibu, CA
BAPS Shri Swãminãrayan Mandir in Chino Hills partnered with the Malibu Hindu Temple for ‘Hindu Hriday Milan.’ This event was graced by Pujya Swami’s of BAPS including BAPS Scholar Mahamahopadhyaya Bhadreshdas Swami and Pujya Munivatsaldas Swami, Administrative Head of Swaminarayan Akshardham, New Delhi.
As the current spiritual head of BAPS, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj has said, “In the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – let us extend the circle of global harmony.” With that in mind, hundreds of devotees, well-wishers, and community members gathered at the Malibu Hindu Temple. The event started with kirtan-bhakti and prayers. Then, temple priests and trustees welcomed Mahamahopadhyaya Bhadreshdas Swami and other BAPS Swamis with traditional Vedic mantras and traditions.
Pujya Munivatsaldas Swami talked about the importance of continuing to keep the flame of Hindu traditions, festivals, and culture ignited across the world. He talked about the historic role that mandirs continue to play as centers of the community and beacons of Hindu identity. As the administrative head of Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi, Pujya Munivatsaldas Swami shared with the audience the impact of such visionary complexes on many people, including heads of state, government officials, guests, and community members.
Mahamahopadhyaya Bhadreshdas Swami then emphasized the importance of preserving Hindu traditions of food, clothing, language, and faith. He stressed the importance of parents passing on the history, culture, and traditions to the next generation and studying the Hindu scriptures as a means to understanding all aspects of life, living, and beyond.
He offered gratitude on behalf of BAPS to Mr. Nadadur Sampath Kumarji, President of the Malibu Hindu Temple.
Mr. Rajendra Vora – International Vice President of JSGIF, as well as Founder and President of the Jain Social Group Beverly Hills, presented Swãmi Bhadreshdasji with a CA State Assembly Certificate of Recognition celebrating Swami’s scholarly achievements and BAPS’ important role in serving society. He requested various community leaders Sunil Agrawal, Sampath Kumar, Kanaksinh Zala, Raman Chaddha, Manohar Chopra, and Govind Vagashia to join in presenting the honor.
After the assembly, Mahamahopadhyaya Bhadreshdas Swami and BAPS Swamis offered prayers to all of the deities at the Malibu Hindu Temple and prayed for continued harmony amongst all people and community members.
