ABOUT BAPS

Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) is a socio-spiritual Hindu organization with its roots in the Vedas. It was revealed by Bhagwan Swaminarayan (1781-1830) in the late 18th century and established in 1907 by Shastriji Maharaj (1865-1951). Founded on the pillars of practical spirituality, the BAPS reaches out far and wide to address the spiritual, moral and social challenges and issues we face in our world. Its strength lies in the purity of its nature and purpose.

BAPS strives to care for the world by caring for societies, families and individuals. Its universal work through a worldwide network of over 3,850 centers has received many national and international awards and affiliation with the United Nations.

Today, a million or more Swaminarayan followers begin their day with puja and meditation, lead upright, honest lives and donate regular hours in serving others. No Alcohol, No Addictions, No Adultery, No Meat, No Impurity of body and mind are their five lifetime vows. Such pure morality and spirituality forms the foundation of the humanitarian services performed by BAPS.

The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha strives to better society through individual development by instilling values, promoting spirituality, cultivating skills, and nurturing growth. We aim to preserve Indian culture and the Hindu ideals of faith, unity, and selfless service in diverse communities around the world. We envision a society whose joy lies in the joy of others.

Based on the teachings of Bhagwan Swaminarayan and under the leadership of Param Pujya Mahant Swami Maharaj, the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha promotes harmony amongst individuals, families, and diverse communities. Understanding that the synergy created from development at the individual level leads to greater societal growth, the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha provides for the spiritual, cultural, physical, and emotional needs of people from all walks of life.

With over 1100 sadhus and 55,000 volunteers, the organization helps 3,850 communities around the world through its various humanitarian services and grassroots initiatives.

Through these efforts, the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha sustains the universal value of Hindu culture— encouraging devotion to God by imbibing such faith in all aspects of life.