Images of Eternal Joy (Moments with Yogiji Maharaj)

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The Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) is a global socio spiritual organisation committed to the moral and spiritual uplift of mankind. It was established in 1907 CE by Brahmaswarup Shastriji Maharaj in consonance with the Vedic teachings propagated by Bhagwan Swaminarayan (1 781- 1 830 CE).

The Sanstha' s global network of 9,090 Satsang centres are perennial sources of moral, social, cultural and spiritual activities. The energies of the BAPS volunteer corps of 55,000 youths and over 700 sadhus are channelised towards a variety of philanthropic activities. The BAPS is an NGO in Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations. Its world renowned cultural and spiritual complexes like Akshardham in Gandhinagar and New Delhi and the Swaminarayan Mandir in London are some of its epoch-making contributions to society.

The BAPS, under the inspiration and guidance of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, has earned an endearing and unique place in the hearts of millions through- out the world.

Acclaimed as a unique and rare holy soul of India, Pramukh Swami Maharaj was born on 7 December 1921 CE in the village of Chansad, Gujarat. He is the fifth successor in the illustrious spiritual tradition of Bhagwan Swaminarayan and the embodiment of the universal Hindu ideals.

In his presence doubts dissolve, confusions clear, hurts heal and the mind finds peace. His selfless love and morality equally soothes and moralises children, youths and seniors; regardless of caste, creed or status.

Out of his compassion for humanity, he has made over 15,500 village, town and city visits, sanctified over 250,000 homes, and read and replied to over 500,000 letters. He has ushered a cultural, moral and spiritual renaissance in India and abroad by establishing over 640 mandirs. His divine humanism has provided succour to countless souls in times of natural catastrophe and need.

His striking humility, simplicity and spiritualism have impressed many religious and national leaders. And above all, his profound experience and realisation of God is the essence of his success and divine lustre.

Yogiji Maharaj's life was full of divine laughter. Whatever the event, whatever the circumstances, he had a huge broad smile to greet one and all. It was not that he never faced difficulties or challenges - for his life was full of them - but, his hearty, joyful smile was his unique and universal answer to all situations.

And it was contagious, for, whoever came to him, whatever their plight, always left feeling lightened of their burden, spiritually inspired and clinging possessively to their new found joy. That was the magic of Yogiji Maharaj.

This publication, Images of Eternal Joy, captures the natural joy of Yogiji Maharaj - the joy born of unbroken communion with God. Each photograph will stir the soul to seek the divine bliss Yogiji Maharaj enjoyed. They tell the story of Yogiji Maharaj's life - one of joy, more joy, everlasting spiritual joy. We feel sure that these images of Yogiji Maharaj will bring unparalleled joy to your heart.

We thank Sadhu Brahmaviharidas for the lucid script; Sadhu Siddheshwardas, Sadhu Ramcharandas, Shri Bhudarji Maru, Shri Gunvant Brothers, Shri Hiralal Khatri and Shri Vaju B. Patel for the photographs; and Sadhu Shrijiswarupdas for the book and cover designs.