Just as soldiers defend our borders, Sants defend us in the fight against our inner enemies.
Acharya Swamishree Maharaj
Under the leadership of Acharya Swamishree, a devoted mandal of ascetics, called Sants, have left their homes and families, and renounced their wealth and personal pleasures in order to dedicate their lives to Maninagar Shree Swaminarayan Gadi Sansthan. They relentlessly work for the service of society.
The saffron colour of their clothing represents the colour of fire; i.e. those who have accepted the path of renunciation and become ascetics have burnt all worldly afflictions. Their un-sewn clothing and shaven heads symbolise the simplicity of their lives.
Jyaa divo tyaa daatan nahi, jyaa daatan tyaa divo nahi.
Acharya Swamishree Maharaj
Acharya Swamishree Maharaj has embarked on tours (vicharan) around the world, travelling nearly 2.3million kilometers for His disciples. This is the equivalent of going around the world 50 times. Acharya Swamishree Maharaj embarked on these tours to preach and promote the sublime philosophy of Lord Shree Swaminarayanbapa Swamibapa. He also sought to raise awareness of the fundamentals of humanity and morality – benevolence, tolerance, and living in harmony with Mother Earth and with each other.
Since 1979, Acharya Swamishree Maharaj has travelled over 1,000,000 kilometers by air, 900,000 kilometers by road, and 375,000 kilometers by rail to visit the homes and workplaces of over 21,500 people around the world.
The blessings of God are essential in life's every step.
Acharya Swamishree Maharaj
Explaining the glory and philosophy of Lord Shree Swaminarayanbapa Swamibapa and the greatness of Shree Swaminarayan Gadi, Acharya Swamishree Maharaj has held over 10,000 assemblies, and bestowed over 4000 hours of ashirwad to thousands around the world.
Wherever Acharya Swamishree visits, He holds public assemblies and gatherings. He teaches the need for everyone to adhere to the moral teachings of Lord Shree Swaminarayanbapa Swamibapa, which advocate the need for compassion and understanding for all humanity.
Discard the darkness of ignorance with enthusiasm and eagerness, as these ignite the flame of true progression.
Acharya Swamishree Maharaj
A religious festival aims to teach the manner to achieve this goal.
Even a person who can incessantly visualise the Lord's Murti must remember the various events performed by the Lord and retain memories of them all. This is necessary because, if the Murti of the Lord is forgotten during one's last moments, the memories of the celebrations will remind that person of the Lord's Murti and then, that soul can attain salvation.
It is for this reason that Acharya Swamishree Maharaj arranges magnificent celebrations and festivals, and celebrates the festivals such as Pragatya Jayanti, Gurupurnima, Murti Pratishthas and Patotsavs around the world.
Recognising Acharya Swamishree Maharaj’s great qualities, efforts and achievements, leading scholars have bestowed numerous awards and honorary titles upon Him.