On the sacred occasion of Diwali and the Hindu New Year, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj (Swami Keshavjivandas) shared a deeply spiritual message, blessing devotees, saints, and well-wishers of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha worldwide.
In his handwritten message, Mahant Swami Maharaj reminded followers that Diwali’s true essence lies beyond lamps and celebrations — it is about igniting the inner flame of the soul and living a life illuminated by faith, humility, and service.
“Those who have attained Maharaj and Swami live in eternal Diwali,” he wrote. “For those who have received the divine grace of the Guru and God, every day is Diwali. Their lives shine with unwavering faith, disciplined living, and spiritual practice. One who remains steadfast in observance, humility, and service truly leads an illumined life.”
He emphasized that Diwali should not be seen merely as an external festival, but as a spiritual commitment to dispel ignorance and ignite the light of virtue. “The essence of spiritual life is to keep the inner light ever aglow. Lamps of service, humility, and righteousness form the true aarti of life,” he said.
Extending his New Year blessings, Mahant Swami Maharaj prayed for universal well-being: “May this New Year bring auspiciousness and prosperity into your life. May peace, unity, and happiness prevail in your family, and may love and harmony flourish in all your relationships.”
Encouraging devotees to ensure that their homes glow not only with lamps but also with the light of compassion and service, he added, “A lamp burns only for a while, but when the soul’s light is kindled, it illuminates life forever.”
Across the world — from Delhi Akshardham to London, Abu Dhabi, Sydney, Nairobi, and Atlanta — BAPS Mandirs celebrated Diwali and the Hindu New Year with devotion and gratitude. Ceremonies including Aarti, Chopda Pujan, Bhajans, Pravachans, and Deepotsav were observed with great fervour.
In his Diwali video message broadcast on the BAPS YouTube Channel, Mahant Swami Maharaj reiterated, “The light of the lamp fades, but the light of the soul, once lit, makes life eternally bright.”
The core of his message was simple yet profound: true Diwali is an awakening of the soul. Through devotion, discipline, and service, life remains filled with divine light and inner peace.
“May the divine light of Bhagwan Swaminarayan and the Guru Parampara forever shine in your life. May peace, devotion, and service illumine your home, and may the radiance of Maharaj and Swami remain eternal in your heart,” he concluded.
