An enlightening one-day shibir for mahilas was organised on Tuesday 21 April 2015 in Paris, France.
Themed ‘Bhagwan Bhaji Leva’, the shibir provided more than 120 participants with an opportunity to develop their understanding of spiritual devotion through an informative programme of powerful speeches, insightful dramas and group discussions.
The day was organised into three distinct sessions, each incorporating interactive exercises to help the participants learn about the fundamental concepts of devotion. Creative video presentations were also used to explore these concepts in greater detail and provide a deeper understanding of the subject.
One of the highlights of the event was a vibrant cultural programme held in the presence of Harikrishna Maharaj. The programme provided the mahilas with a practical and creative medium through which they could express their devotion.
The evening also included devout celebrations marking the birth of Bhagwan Swaminarayan and Shri Ramachandraji. Video blessings from Pramukh Swami Maharaj brought the enlightening day to a fitting conclusion.
More than 200 yuvak and yuvati karyakars from across the United Kingdom gathered at Pendley Manor Hotel, Tring, on Sunday 21 June 2026 for the National UK Yuvak-Yuvati Mandal Karyakar Skills Workshop and Get-Together, themed ‘Seva ej Sadhana’ (Service is Spiritual Practice).
The one-day workshop provided karyakars with an opportunity to strengthen friendships, develop practical skills and deepen their understanding of seva, or selfless service, within the Yuvak-Yuvati Mandal. Bringing together volunteers from mandals and centres across the country, the event encouraged participants to learn from one another while reflecting on how to serve more effectively in their local satsang communities.
Throughout the day, participants engaged in interactive workshops and practical training sessions focusing on key aspects of satsang development, personal growth and effective seva. Through discussion, reflection and collaborative activities, karyakars explored ways to strengthen their own spiritual development and the support they provide to others through their various seva responsibilities.
Breakout sessions provided opportunities for participants to exchange ideas, share experiences and discuss best practices with fellow karyakars from across the UK. These conversations fostered a spirit of openness and collaboration while reinforcing the importance of performing seva with understanding, humility and the aspiration to earn the rajipo, or inner happiness, of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj.
Alongside the learning sessions, the programme included outdoor team-building activities, providing an enjoyable environment for karyakars to build new friendships and strengthen existing bonds. A shared lunch further contributed to the atmosphere of unity, appreciation and fellowship that characterised the day.
Many participants reflected that one of the highlights of the event was the opportunity to meet fellow karyakars from other centres, exchange practical ideas and gain fresh perspectives that they could take back to their local mandals. The workshop inspired attendees to continue developing their skills, fulfilling their responsibilities with greater confidence and contributing to the continued growth of satsang across the United Kingdom.
The National UK Yuvak-Yuvati Mandal Karyakar Skills Workshop and Get-Together concluded with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment. Inspired by the guidance of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, participants returned to their local mandals with a shared resolve to offer their seva with samp (unity), suhradbhav (togetherness) and ekta (oneness), recognising that sincere service performed with devotion is itself a path to spiritual growth.
From 2015 onwards, BAPS swamis conducted a series of special seminars on the ‘Psychology of Child Development’ at BAPS mandirs and centres across the UK. The seminars were designed to help parents better understand their children’s needs, interests and wants and provide them with practical guidance for supporting their holistic development.
The initiative was rooted in the BAPS tradition of nurturing children. Yogiji Maharaj established the Bal-Balika Mandal to educate, elevate and inspire children, an ethos that was furthered by Pramukh Swami Maharaj. Recognising that parents play an integral role in the development of children, the seminars focused on equipping parents with a deeper understanding of child psychology.
Tyagprakash Swami delivered the seminars at seven locations across the UK: Bolton, East London, Edinburgh, Leeds, Luton, Manchester and Preston.
The first part of each seminar focused on the development of the young child’s brain. Participants learned how children absorb knowledge from their earliest years and how their surrounding environment can influence brain development. Practical advice was provided to help parents create a more positive and conducive atmosphere for their children. Diagrams, charts and scientific references were used to explain the concepts in an accessible manner.
The sessions also examined the potential negative impact of technology on children. Parents were provided with references for further reading to help them gain a deeper understanding of their children’s needs, interests and wants.
The second part explored a broader developmental roadmap covering the body, including diet, exercise and lifestyle disciplines; the power and complexity of the mind; and the role of a spiritually enriched life in the holistic development of a child. The presentations also explained how family harmony can support these aspects of a child’s development.
The seminars were well received by parents, with many delegates sharing positive feedback and committing to incorporate the learning into their daily lives.
A young mother from Luton described the seminar as “a real eye-opener” regarding the responsibility parents have to nurture and develop their children. She particularly appreciated the simple explanations of complex theories and studies, as well as the relevance of the real-life examples presented during the seminar.
Through these seminars, parents were given practical knowledge and a deeper understanding of child development, helping them create healthier, more supportive and spiritually enriched environments for their children.
BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha celebrated International Women’s Day at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London, on Saturday 14 March 2015.
The event was organised to inspire change, raise awareness and empower women to make positive changes in their lives, families and the wider community. It also marked the beginning of a year-long initiative by the BAPS Women’s Forum focusing on four important areas: respect, independence, health and safety.
More than 1,400 women attended the evening, which began with prayers for world peace. The programme then explored the first theme of the year, ‘Be Respectful’, through a thought-provoking game show and a powerful debate examining different views and challenges associated with respect.
A contemporary shadow dance depicting the different stages of a woman’s life provided a fitting conclusion to the programme.
The Chief Guest was Ms Ritula Shah, journalist and news presenter for The World Tonight and the Saturday edition of PM on BBC Radio 4, who had also previously presented Woman’s Hour on Radio 4.
In her keynote address, Ms Shah shared her vision of what women can achieve when provided with the right support and guidance. She encouraged women to be progressive while remaining committed to their culture, family and profession. Drawing from her own experiences, she spoke of being inspired by “the many lessons learned to help women be financially independent, healthy and kind.”
She also encouraged women to strengthen their relationships and support one another, saying, “As women, we can join together and build our relationships. Let’s unite and help one another.”
The programme provided valuable information and inspiration for women of all ages. One attendee described gaining a “new-found energy” to “move forward in life while still being grounded in my values and beliefs.”
Amee Desai, one of the lead organisers, highlighted the many dimensions of a woman’s life and the importance of progressing while remaining respectful. She noted that feedback from attendees had been overwhelmingly positive and expressed hope that the event would inspire many more women to progress in their chosen paths.
Every winter, BAPS Charities in South Africa run its annual Winter Warmer drive across all major cities in the country. The aim of the drive is to donate clothes, blankets, hot meals and non-perishable food and household items to underprivileged and impoverished communities in preparation for the winter season.
On Saturday, 31 May 2014, BAPS Charities volunteers from Mayfair, Johannesburg, donated 400 food hampers and served hot meals to approximately 400 people at the Barcelona informal settlement in Etwatwa, Daveyton. The residents of the settlement are recipients of BAPS Charities’ monthly food donation scheme where maize-meal, rice and other bulk food are provided to the settlement. The residents live in impoverished conditions and lack basic amenities to live a dignified life. They are also afflicted by various health challenges for which BAPS Charities provide weekly medical services to help treat their ailments. The hampers comprised of staple food and household items, such as rice, oil, tea, soap, candles and cereal. The hot meal was made up of rice and a hearty vegetarian curry. The people of the settlement were gracious and appreciative of our donation and thanked us by singing “God bless you” in their native language.
On Saturday, 7 June 2014, BAPS Charities volunteers completed the final winter warmer distributions from Johannesburg by donating blankets and clothing to two local beneficiaries: the Johannesburg Institute of Social Services (JISS) and Sparrow Rainbow Village. JISS is a child and family welfare institution that provides care and support to families and children in need of social services. They provide programs to assist people afflicted by the HIV/AIDS virus, awareness programs against child and women abuse and hold outreach programmes for people living in informal and impoverished circumstances. On the day, 100 blankets, clothes for men and women and 100 food hampers were donated to the families present. The care- givers of the organisation expressed their sincere gratitude and thanked all volunteers who attended the distribution.
Sparrow Rainbow Village is a hospice that provides full time residence to abused, orphaned and neglected children. They also look after children and young adults suffering with the HIV/AIDS virus. The organisation runs full time educational and skills training programs such as hand craft, jewellery making and baking. Approximately 300 people were recipients of blankets and donated clothes. The children and care-givers received our volunteers graciously and were appreciative of our donation. Through conversation with the care-givers and understanding the daily challenges that their organisation face, BAPS Charities has committed to supporting the Sparrow Rainbow Village in future projects and activities.
More than 190 children from The Swaminarayan Sunday School in London enjoyed a three-day educational activity camp at Kingswood Grosvenor Hall in Kent from 3 to 5 April 2015. The event was designed to develop various personal and interpersonal skills among the children.
Kingswood is part of Inspiring Learning (formerly Education Travel Group) which provides educationally rich activity-centred breaks for schools and groups. ‘Out of the classroom learning’ is a key feature of their programmes.
Over the three days, the children challenged themselves through a variety of tasks specially designed to harness a number of skills and abilities.
Some tasks tested and developed teamwork and communication, while others strengthened physical fitness, control, coordination and balance.
One memorable team-building task involved navigating blindfolded through a series of obstacles and mazes as a group, relying heavily on the trust, support and communication of fellow team members. Another involved working collectively to hoist a colleague in the air on a harness.
The days were rounded off with lighter activities, including talent performances by the children themselves. They also thoroughly enjoyed the lively discussions at night around the camp fire.
Over the course of the three-day trip, volunteers observed the children grow in confidence, strategic thinking and social interaction.
Overall, the educational camp provided a wealth of fun and valuable learning experiences for the children as a part of their holistic development.
From toddlers through to senior citizens in their nineties, over 1,500 people from the local community in London raised funds and awareness for a variety of good causes in a fun and healthy charity event on Sunday 27 April 2014.
This year’s BAPS Charities Annual 10K Challenge partnered with Diabetes UK, the leading charity that cares for, connects with and campaigns on behalf of every person affected by or at risk of diabetes – including the 3.8 million people in the UK that are currently diagnosed with the condition.
As part of the Challenge, participants were asked to walk 10 kilometres, while for the more energetic, there was an option to jog or even run the distance. Despite the damp weather, all those taking part showed tremendous high spirits and enthusiasm.
The Challenge this year builds on 20 years of sponsored events. Previous national charity partners have included Macmillan Cancer Research, Barnardo’s, The Anthony Nolan Trust, The British Heart Foundation, Breast Cancer Care, Age UK, KIDS, as well as Diabetes UK.
The event kicked-off at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London shortly after 9am in the presence of Baroness Barbara Young, CEO of Diabetes UK. Also present to offer his support was The Worshipful Mayor of the London Borough of Brent Cllr Bobby Thomas, as were Cllrs Muhammed Butt, Zaffar Van Kalwala, Paul Lorber, Suresh Kansagra, Colum Moloney, and Ketan Sheth. In addition, PPCs Ibrahim Taguri, Kishan Devani and John Detre were also at the event.
Prominent members of the Punjab National Bank, who had contributed generously to the event, also joined the opening ceremony. The event was also supported by local companies who had kindly donated healthy refreshments for the walkers and runners.
Addressing the gathering, Barbara Young reiterated that Diabetes UK is “incredibly pleased to be associated with the Challenge.” Noting that diabetes particularly affects the South Asian community, she added that Diabetes UK was pleased to join BAPS Charities in helping people become aware of and deal with the condition.
She continued by saying: “We are particularly pleased to be working with your [BAPS Charities] healthcare team who work tirelessly to bring an excellent service.” The Baroness also offered her support for the diabetes screening sessions that are regularly organised by BAPS Charities.
The Mayor also addressed the assembly. “It is perhaps very fitting,” he said, “because here in Brent we are probably the borough that is affected most by diabetes. It is also good to see youngsters taking part for a good cause. I hope today is about healthy lifestyle and that you enjoy the walk and run.”
After the opening ceremony, walkers, joggers and runners moved along the route from the Mandir towards the picturesque King Edward VII Park in Wembley where participants completed two circuits before returning to the Mandir.
BAPS Charities volunteer Dr Sejal Saglani added, “We are very grateful to Diabetes UK who have worked closely with BAPS Charities to raise awareness about diabetes. We believe that this year’s Challenge has been even more popular despite the weather and are hopeful that generous sums will have been raised to help the charity with their excellent work.”
Similar events are being held by BAPS Charities at several other centres around the country, bringing the national total to around 4,000 participants.
BAPS Charities organised a seminar for ‘Achieving a Healthy Lifestyle’ on Saturday 20 September 2014 at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London. In collaboration with MIND and Diabetes UK, the seminar raised awareness and provided practical guidance on working towards a healthy body and a healthy mind.
Dr Rajeev Dhar, consultant psychiatrist practising in Harley Street, was a guest speaker at the event. Dr Dhar’s lecture addressed the importance of recognising symptoms of poor mental health that can compromise daily functioning and, in turn, impact physical health.
Dr Dhar highlighted sleep disturbance, low mood and poor concentration as key factors that may represent early signs of poor mental health. He also stressed acknowledging that optimal mental health is as important as physical well-being and urged those suffering to seek professional help.
Dr Markand Patel, a radiologist and a volunteer at BAPS Charities, spoke of the importance of maintaining a healthy body. He firstly explained the vital signs of heart disease and stroke. After emphasising the high genetic risk of heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure among the South Asian community, he went on to provide useful guidance on how each of these can be prevented or at least controlled by an active lifestyle, a healthy diet, and, if necessary, prescribed medication.
The concepts from both lectures were further reinforced during interactive workshops.
Members of the Harrow and Brent branches of MIND conducted a workshop on “Dealing with Chronic Pain” where they explained the emotional impact of chronic pain and shared practical tips on how to minimise its effects on daily living.
Volunteers from Diabetes UK led a workshop on “My Lifestyle as a Diabetic”. This included a Gujarati food quiz, testing the delegates’ knowledge of a balanced diet. Additionally, a recently diagnosed diabetic shared his personal journey through the condition helping further educate the attendees.
BAPS Charities volunteers also led a yoga session demonstrating how both body and mind can benefit from physical exercises and relaxation techniques.
The event was attended by approximately 40 people from the local community, with lots of positive feedback. Most shared that they were grateful that mental health and well-being were discussed so openly and given as much prominence as physical health.
Narendra Patel, a medical volunteer for BAPS Charities, commented: “Sadly, there’s still a stigma in the community attached to mental health problems and so too often they are swept under the carpet, meaning people who need the help the most don’t receive it. We wanted to break that taboo and bring both mental and physical health out in the open on par. We hope this seminar can be a step in that direction and are pleased we have been able to provide some practical guidance too with the help of these experts.”
To learn more about MIND and Diabetes UK, please follow the respective links.
Celebrating International Women’s Day 2026, Helsinki, Finland
BAPS centers across North America hosted Impact of Women, a series of events celebrating the contributions and perspectives of women. The gatherings brought together attendees of all ages and backgrounds, including college students, professionals, entrepreneurs, and community leaders. This year’s focus, “Rooted in Strength, Rising in Purpose,” highlighted the strength held in our shared values, which serve as the foundation that enables us to rise in our purpose—our duties, services, and responsibilities.
Through panel discussions, Q&A sessions, and hands-on demonstrations, attendees engaged in open dialogue about real-life challenges and experiences. Conversations often centered on managing work-life balance in today’s fast-paced world, finding time for self-care, and prioritizing spiritual well-being alongside professional and family responsibilities. Personal stories shared by women from all walks of life offered relatable examples of both struggles and successes, creating a supportive environment where attendees could reflect on their own journeys.
Beyond the practical takeaways, the events offered space to build genuine friendships, with many attendees sharing that connecting with women at different stages of life and professional paths gave them fresh perspectives and a strong sense of community. The events fostered both inspiration and understanding, allowing participants to walk away with meaningful connections as well as new tools for daily living.
Across North America, Impact of Women programs underscored how shared experiences, spiritual grounding, and service-minded living can enrich women’s lives. By combining thoughtful discussions with practical activities, Impact of Women highlighted the importance of balance and the strength found in community.
