BAPS’ Festival of Inspirations Explores the Power of Parenting in Shaping the Next Generation

In an ever-changing world, the values we foster within our families stand as our enduring legacy. BAPS
explored the power and complexity of parenthood through a special program titled ‘From House to
Home’ at the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in Robbinsville, New Jersey.

As part of the Festival of Inspirations, the program unpacked the role of a parent in shaping a child’s future with a focus on how each parent can instill morals and values in their child that will ensure their success. Honorary speakers shed light on how family values are the foundation upon which a house becomes a cherished home and how a house is not merely the walls that support it but the memories and values within it.

The program featured speeches and dramas, emphasizing the importance of family values in child-
rearing. It was organized into two assemblies, with the first being spearheaded by women. The program
commenced with a video in which a simple yet profound question was asked: what is at the heart of
good parenting? The event showcased that ideal parenting is a delicate balance of guidance and
freedom.

It’s about setting boundaries while encouraging individuality. It is everyday moments in which
we instill the values that will shape our children’s character. Through compelling dramas and speeches,
the program highlighted how to overcome competing priorities and misconceptions that challenge the
journey of parenthood.

Ways of positive parenting were discussed in a panel discussion and emphasized in a speech by Pujya
Anandswarupdas Swami. Positive parenting empowers, nurtures, gives warmth, provides emotional
security, and underscores the message of unconditional love. In an illuminating speech, Pujya
Vivekjivandas Swami posited that parents are the emotional anchors of a home, and that the home is
the foundation of any society. He recalled that His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj outlined three
fundamental pillars for raising children: health, education, and values.

Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s repeated message, echoed by His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj: “A family
that eats together, plays together, and prays together, stays together” served as a valuable reminder
that the informal setting of the dinner table is when bonding and binding take place within families.
Finally, the most impactful lesson of the evening for parents was to steer away from comparing their
child to others, as this not only makes the child question a parent’s love for them, but also plants the
seeds of inferiority within, which carries throughout their lives.

The program welcomed distinguished guests, including Mr. Vincent Lima, Managing Director at Moelis
& Company. He has an extensive career in investment banking and is also a dedicated member of the
community working with New Jersey SEEDS, a non-profit program transforming educational
opportunities for high-achieving students from low-income families.

Remarking on his first visit to the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham and participating in the evening program, Mr. Lima said “When I think about the volunteer efforts that built this incredible sanctuary of peace, it really warms my heart.

You should be so proud. To have a place of peace and harmony is really what the world needs today.”
The evening concluded with a speech by His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj’s on the most important
and universal lessons a parent can imbibe, “The biggest responsibility is to give your children
unconditional love and affection, and that cannot be accomplished by looking at others as a benchmark.
When planting trees, the right kind of care can help it grow, but by twisting out the roots, its growth is
stunted indefinitely.

In the same way, we need to give the right type of care, nourishment and love to
children. Do not rush, rushing the journey ruins everything; rather raise your children in such a way
that they have time to blossom.” The audience was reminded that in a rapidly changing world, one
thing remains constant and crucial: the values we instill in our families are the legacy we will pass on,
shaping generations to come. Watch future events from the Festival of Inspirations LIVE at https://na.baps.org.