Image Credit: Photo by Koushalya Karthikeyan
New York, USA - The Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) recently celebrated its 50th anniversary in North America, marking half a century of cultural, spiritual, and community contributions.
The milestone event took place in Flushing, New York, where the first BAPS mandir was established in 1974 by His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj.
The grand celebration spanned over two weekends and attracted thousands of devotees and dignitaries from across the United States, highlighting the organization’s remarkable growth and impact.
The celebrations included an interactive exhibition, detailing BAPS’s journey from a modest group of devotees to a prominent Hindu organization with over 115 mandirs across North America.
Congressman Tom Suozzi honored the occasion by presenting BAPS with a U.S. Capitol flag, flown in recognition of their 50 years of service.
Community leaders, religious figures, and local politicians, including New York State Senator John Liu and Assemblymember Nily Rozic, also participated in the event, lauding BAPS’s dedication to fostering unity, service, and spirituality.
Reflecting on BAPS’s impact, Congressman Suozzi stated, “The journey of BAPS is remarkable.” Attendees shared how BAPS has shaped their lives, with sentiments of gratitude for its role in promoting cultural values and service.
The event served as a launching point for similar celebrations planned across the U.S. and Canada, further underscoring BAPS’s unwavering commitment to spiritual and social development.
The golden jubilee not only honored BAPS’s past but also set the stage for future endeavors under the guidance of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, the current spiritual leader.
The organization’s efforts to nurture communities, preserve Hindu traditions, and inspire holistic growth continue to resonate deeply with the values of faith and service.