BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute launches in Australia

Representatives from leading spiritual organisations, government and academics gathered under one roof on 24 July 2022 in Sydney for the historic launch of the BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute in Australia in the presence of renowned scholar of Hindu Philosophy and Sanskrit, Mahamahopadhyaya Pujya Bhadreshdas Swami.

Visiting BAPS sadhu, Mahamahopadhyaya Bhadreshdas Swami, is the author of the Sanskrit commentary and philosophical texts, the Swaminarayan-Bhashyam and the Swaminarayan-Siddhanta-Sudha.

He is the first author in 1,200 years to write a traditional Sanskrit commentary (“Bhashyam”) on all texts of the Prasthanatrayi – three foundational and leading scriptures of the Hindu faith comprising the Upanishads, Brahmasutras and the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita.

Addressing the assembly virtually from India, Mahant Swami Maharaj the current spiritual leader of BAPS said, “Yogiji Maharaj had envisioned such an institute and was passionate about youths learning and discoursing in Sanskrit. The research institute has fulfilled this vision. May students excel in their studies and work together to serve society, expanding the circle of unity across the world. In the spirit of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” meaning the world is one family, let’s reach out to extend the circle of global harmony.”

Bhadreshdas Swami delivered the institute’s inaugural lecture and reinforced His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj’s messages of global harmony, public service and educational excellence. Elaborating on Mahant Swami Maharaj’s vision, he encouraged children and youth to explore their interests in the areas of arts and Hindu philosophy.

The BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute was launched in Australia with the blessings of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj and is a part of the centennial celebrations of BAPS’ fifth spiritual successor, His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj.

Hundreds of people gathered at BAPS Swaminarayan Temple, Rosehill, for the institute’s launch.

They were given a glimpse by children and youth of how this institute will nurture future generations to learn about Sanskrit, Vedic philosophy and Hindu culture.

A choir of children and youth enlightened the ceremony attendees with their proficiency in Sanskrit shlokas.

Praful Jethwa, a BAPS spokesperson, said, “This institute will provide structure, pathways and means for young people to learn the texts and languages from experts in India in traditional Gurukul style. This launch is very promising for the future of scholarship and training for youths. We are thankful to young students who have provided the impetus to start this institute here in Australia.”

Hindu Council of Australia chairman Nihal Agar said the launch of BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute in Australia comes at a critical time for the Hindu community in the country. “As the community continues to grow it is our collective responsibility to ensure that our heritage, our culture, our languages and our values which are derived from Hindu Sanskriti,” said Mr Agar.

The courses through the BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute will be delivered virtually by esteemed and learned BAPS sadhus and scholars worldwide through already established state-of-the-art Research Institute facilities established in Akshardham temples in Delhi, Gandhinagar and Sarangpur in India.

For more information, visit www.research.baps.org ; www.baps.org