Augmented Spirituality: ‘Swami Malvathi’ Blends Tradition and Tech at BAPS Festival of Inspiration

During the ongoing Festival of Inspirations at the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in Robbinsville,  New Jersey, a unique themed program, “Swami Malvathi” (after meeting a spiritual guru), took place on August 19, 2023.

The program was a special tribute from the teenagers to their guru, Mahant Swami Maharaj. A guru
serves as a friend, a mentor, and most importantly, a guide through all moments in life. One’s
relationship with the guru is one of the most transformative relationships in life. The program
explored what strengthening one’s bond with the guru looks like and what it means to truly
understand the guru.

The first half of the program featured young women who shared unique perspectives from their life
experiences of how distance is no obstacle in forming a spiritual connection with the guru. Through
reflections on heartfelt prayers offered in times of distress, service performed selflessly as inspired by
their guru, and divine memories from the spiritual tours of Mahant Swami Maharaj, the participants
illustrated ways in which they’ve been able to strengthen their bond with Mahant Swami Maharaj and
feel his guiding presence in their lives, irrespective of distance.

During the evening assembly, students shared candid experiences as they navigated some of the
most challenging years of their life, before and during college, by reflecting on the intuitive foresight
and support they received through Mahant Swami Maharaj’s verbal or written guidance. The program
featured an Augmented reality experience designed and implemented by the youths of BAPS.
Augmented reality is an interactive experience in which a real-world environment is enhanced with
computer-generated visual elements, and sounds

The event was honored by the presence of several dignitaries, including Robbinsville Township
Council President Deborah Blakely, who shared motivating words with the youth. “Our journey is to
find what you are passionate about, what brings you joy and fulfills you. Use them on your journey to
get involved in your community, school, and where you worship.”

Dr. Chirag Patel, Co-Founder and President of Amneal Pharmaceuticals, remarked, “The world can look beautiful if you are spiritual. What you are doing here and what is passed to our generations to come is unthinkable and only can be done with the grace of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, Pramukh Swami Maharaj, and Mahant Swami Maharaj.”

During the assembly, key guests in attendance included Bharat Patel, Chairman of the Asian American
Hotel Owners’ Association (AAHOA); Padmashri Dr. H.R. Shah, Chairman and CEO of TV Asia; Dr.
Gaurav Shah, CEO of Rocket Pharmaceuticals; Chirag Patel, Co-Founder and President of Amneal
Pharmaceuticals; Grammy winner Falguni Shah; and Deborah Blakely, the Robbinsville Township
Council President.

In conclusion of the program, Mahant Swami Maharaj shared inspiring words with all in attendance.
“The happiness and sorrows of this world will come and go for all, but if you keep your focus on
prapti (spiritual attainment), then happiness and sorrows will not affect you,” he said, giving a lasting
memory through loving guidance to the youth.

Watch future events from the Festival of Inspirations LIVE at https://na.baps.org.