Mumbai: Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) hosted its much anticipated ‘International Karyakar Suvarna Mahotsav’, to commemorate 50 years of the organisation’s Mumbai centre for its volunteers. The event celebrated the selfless services of over 1 lakh volunteers through a series of presentations and performances.
The celebration, which had resonated throughout the past year, unfolded in grand splendour at the world’s largest Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Saturday. In one of a kind get-together of BAPS volunteers, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the selfless spirit of the volunteers and offered his heartfelt wishes and respects for the occasion through a video message. Home Minister Amit Shah and Gujarat’s Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel joined the celebration at the stadium.
1 Lakh BAPS volunteers celebrate 50 years of selfless service at the Karyakar Suvarna Mahotsav in Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium
Mahant Swami Maharaj of the BAPS was welcomed in the stadium in an artistically crafted chariot that circumambulated the stadium. As the chariot advanced along the periphery of the stadium, a symbolic performance by youths depicted scattered beads being unified into a garland and rose petals transformed into golden petals as an honour to Mahant Swami Maharaj for uniting them and blessing them with purity and goodness.
This unique presentation was performed by nearly 800 children and youth karyakars dressed in 550 handcrafted floral petals and 225 beads, which took nearly four months to prepare. The central theme of the programme, ‘Seed, Tree, Fruit,’ was brought to life through enthralling presentations. The 160×140 metre area on the stadium field was transformed into a stunning presentation screen with visual projections through 30 projectors and a series of mesmerising performances by youths.
1 Lakh BAPS volunteers celebrate 50 years of selfless service at the Karyakar Suvarna Mahotsav in Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium
Yagnapriya Swami, who heads the BAPS volunteer corps, said, “Mahant Swami Maharaj had immense enthusiasm for celebrating the Karyakar Suvarna Mahotsav. He inspired the year-long events to honour and appreciate the volunteers and this mammoth event at the Narendra Modi Stadium is the culmination to express gratitude and appreciations in a fitting manner.”
Subsequently, the anthem of the ‘Karyakar Suvarna Mahotsav’ energised the volunteers with unparalleled enthusiasm. The lyrics ‘Seva ki Param Jyoti Mahan’ echoed through the stadium as a magnificent floral formation unfolded in harmony with the theme. Additionally, performers artistically created formations of diyas, homes and the word ‘Swagatam’ (Welcome) in an impressive visual display.
1 Lakh BAPS volunteers celebrate 50 years of selfless service at the Karyakar Suvarna Mahotsav in Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium
The first segment, Seed symbolized the beginning of volunteer activities, depicted the inception and nurturing of the selfless volunteer tradition over the past 100 years. The seeds of volunteerism were first planted by Brahmaswarup Shastriji Maharaj, the founder of BAPS, and later nurtured by Brahmaswarup Yogiji Maharaj, leading to their gradual growth and flourishment.
Performers dressed as seeds of various fruits, grains and flowers. As the seeds sprouted, they became united, disciplined, and organised. The presentation also highlighted how Pramukh Swami Maharaj established a central administrative office and structure for volunteers in 1972, in Mumbai, to groom and engage volunteers in large-scale service activities.
Ishwarcharan Swami, the international convener of BAPS and a witness to the growth of its volunteer movement, said, “When Yogiji Maharaj became the spiritual head of BAPS in 1951, he initiated children and youth activities. Through thousands of letters and personal counsellings he inspired and established children and youth forums and satsang groups. Pramukh Swami Maharaj then transformed this seed into a mighty tree.”
The second segment of ‘Tree’ symbolised a value-based volunteer face. This segment illustrated how the tiny seeds of selfless service grew into flourishing and sturdy trees, which meant how the BAPS volunteer activities spread across India and the world.
Videos showcasing the personal experiences of volunteers were displayed, narrating how Pramukh Swami Maharaj inspired individuals to engage in various service activities such as education, cleanliness drives, literacy campaigns, anti-addiction activities, family unity and more.
The third segment of ‘Fruit’ symbolised a sacred and peaceful world. This segment highlighted the sweet fruits of the selfless services rendered by BAPS volunteers, which have touched and transformed the lives of millions in society.
A video of BAPS’s global humanitarian initiatives featured the remarkable efforts of volunteers. Symbolic depictions of fruits growing in the sky and formations of clouds emphasised the extraordinary accomplishments of these volunteers.
The festival concluded with the Maha Arti performed by 100,000 volunteers. Children, and youth karyakars performed a vibrant dance to express reverence and gratitude to all the volunteers. The grand finale celebration concluded with a spectacular fusion of wristband lighting effects and special fireworks display. The celebration was viewed live by countless devotees and well-wishers in India and abroad.
