It is the custom of the City of Savannah to bring full recognition and just tribute to those men and women of religious commitment who accept the responsibility of moral leadership and render the wisdom of human understanding. Attendant to such concern and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, the City of Savannah is justly proud to commemorate the 100th birthday of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the spiritual leader and Guru of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), a worldwide Hindu organization dedicated to promoting harmony between individuals, within families and amongst diverse communities. 

A simple, humble and spiritual personality, the great Guru was the fifth spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. Born on December 7, 1921, in the village of Chansad, Gujarat, India, Pramukh Swami Maharaj followed a spiritual path from an early age, seeking purity, renouncing material possessions, and possessing a striking humility, saintliness, and selfless desire to help all. His unique combination of spirituality and leadership has grown BAPS globally, encompassing more than 1,100 Mandirs worldwide and 150 centers in North America, and created grand stone mandirs in Houston, Chicago, Toronto, Atlanta, Los Angeles and Robbinsville. These mandirs offer a welcoming and spiritual space for thousands of families as well as worship, fellowship, communal meals, education, and activities for young and old, creating a true home for the faithful. A rare soul, His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj always lived for others and at the same time remained completely absorbed in God. His unique message to the world is "In the joy of others, lies our own". His words were thoughtful, meaningful and consoling, coming from the depth of profound experience and deep compassion.

This distinguished man of God always gave enlightenment, guidance, and wisdom to the many entrusted to his care and administered abundantly and unstintingly to the spiritual and corporal needs of all. It is the sense of the City of Savannah that when an individual of such noble aims and accomplishments is brought to our attention, it is appropriate to publicly and jubilantly proclaim and commend them for the edification of others.

No attachments available