Pramukh Swami Maharaj: Difference between revisions

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'''Pramukh Swami Maharaj''' (born '''Shantilal Patel'''; ordained '''Shastri Narayanswarupdas Swami'''; 7 December 1921 – 13 August 2016) was the [[guru]] and Pramukh, or president, of the [[Bochasanwasi_Akshar_Purushottam_Swaminarayan_Sanstha|BAPSBochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS)]], ana internationalmajor branch of the [[HinduSwaminarayan Sampradaya]], socio-spirituala Hindu organizationdenomination. BAPS regards him as the fifth spiritual successor of [[Swaminarayan]], following [[Gunatitanand Swami]], [[Bhagatji Maharaj]], [[Shastriji Maharaj]], and [[Yogiji Maharaj]]. He was believed by his followers to be in constant communion with Swaminarayan, and ontologically, the manifestation of Akshar, the eternal abode of [[Swaminarayan]].<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=AHI7AAAAIAAJ|title=A Newnew Faceface of Hinduism: The Swaminarayan Religionreligion|last=Williams|first=Raymond Brady|date=1984-03-15|publisher=CUP Archive|isbn=9780521274739|language=en}}</ref>

Pramukh Swami MaharajHe received initiation as a Hindu [[Swami]] in 1940 from Shastriji Maharaj, the founder of BAPS, who later appointed him as President of BAPS in 1950. Yogiji Maharaj declared Pramukh Swami Maharaj to be his spiritual successor and guru of BAPS, a role he commenced in 1971.

As president of BAPS, Pramukh Swami Maharajhe had overseen the growth of BAPS from an organization centered in [[Gujarat]], [[India]], to one spread around the world, maintaining many Hindu [[Hindu temple|mandirs]] and centers outside of India. He built more than 1,100 Hindu temples, including the [[Akshardham (Delhi)|Swaminarayan Akshardham]] temples in New Delhi and [[Akshardham (Gandhinagar)|Gandhinagar, Gujarat.]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.livemint.com/Politics/wRSayFUvvGVDwzbPM8VUAM/Pramukh-Swami-head-of-Swaminarayan-sect-dies-at-95.html|title=Pramukh Swami, head of Swaminarayan sect, dies at 95|last=Pathak|first=Maulik|date=2016-08-14|access-date=2016-08-13}}</ref> He had also spearheaded the efforts of [[BAPS Charities]], which is the charitable service organization affiliated with BAPS. PramukhHe Swami Maharaj iswas succeeded as the guru and Presidentpresident of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha by [[Mahant Swami Maharaj]].<ref name="baps.org">{{Cite web|url=http://www.baps.org/Announcement/2016/Final-Darshan-and-Rites-of-Pramukh-Swami-Maharaj-9961.aspx|title=Final Darshandarshan and Ritesrites of Pramukh Swami Maharaj|website=BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha|access-date=2016-08-13}}</ref>

Shantilal was born in the village of Chansad, [[Gujarat]], on 7 December 1921. His parents, Motibhai and Diwaliben Patel, were disciples of [[Shastriji Maharaj]] and followers of the [[Akshar Purushottam Upasana|Akshar Purushottam]] faith.<ref>Sadhu Paramananddas, translated by Sadhu Tilakratnadas (1995?). Searching Questions and Fulfilling Answers: Pramukh Swami Maharaj in Interview. pp. ix-xi.</ref> Motibhai and Diwaliben were both involved in the Swaminarayan fellowship; Diwaliben's family's association with the Swaminarayan fellowship extended to the time of [[Bhagatji Maharaj]].<ref name="Shantipriyadas">Sadhu Shantipriyadas, Pramukh Swami Maharaj</ref>{{rp|2}} Shastriji Maharaj had blessed young Shantilal at birth, and had told his father, "This child is ours; when the time is ripe, please give him to us. He will lead thousands to the devotion of God. Through him, thousands will attain liberation."<ref name="Shantipriyadas" />{{rp|11}}

Shantilal's mother described him as a calm and soft-spoken, yet energetic and active child.<ref name=Shantipriyadas/>{{rp|9}} His childhood friends recall that Shantilal developed a reputation in the town and in school as an honest, reliable, mature, and kindhearted boy.<ref name=Shantipriyadas/>{{rp|10}} Even as a child, he possessed an uncommon empathy that led others to seek out and trust his opinions and judgments in matters large and small.<ref>{{cite book|last=Brahmaviharidas|first=Sadhu|title=Vicharan: Moments and Memories|year=1996|publisher=Swaminarayan Aksharpith|location=Ahmedabad|page=13}}</ref> Shantilal was raised in a simple home environment, as his family was of modest means. Although he excelled in his studies, in the seventeen years he spent at home before becoming a sadhuswami, Shantilal only had the opportunity to attend school for six years.<ref name="shelat7">{{cite book|last=Shelat|first=Kirit|title=Yug Purush Pujya Pramukh Swami Maharaj: A Life Dedicated to Others|year=2005|publisher=Shri Bhagwati Trust Publications|location=Ahmedabad|page=7}}</ref> As he grew older, Shantilal helped his household by doing chores on the family farm.

[[File:Narayanswarupdas and Shastriji Maharaj.jpg|left|thumb|Pramukh Swami Maharaj (left) with his Guru [[Shastriji Maharaj]] (right) shortly after entering monastic life at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Sarangpur (1939). [Photograph by Shankarprasad Mulshankar Trivedi].]]

Shantilal's daily “darshan”, or worship, at the Swaminarayan temple in Chansad, and his association with Shastriji Maharaj and his disciple sadhusswamis whenever they came to the village, further reflected Shantilal's affinity for spirituality.<ref name="aksharvatsaldas2007">Sadhu Aksharvatsaldas, translated by Sadhu Vivekjivandas (2007). Portrait of Inspiration: Pramukh Swami Maharaj. p. xi. {{ISBN|81-7526-217-6}}.</ref> Shantilal took his meals only after having darshan at the Swaminarayan temple. He used to meet other sadhusswamis who passed through the village from the holy places of pilgrimage in North India.<ref name=Shantipriyadas/>{{rp|10}} Swaminarayan sadhusswamis, such as Ghanshyam Swami and Balmukund Swami, frequently visited Chansad and other nearby villages; Shantilal regularly engaged in serving them during those visits.<ref name=Shantipriyadas/>{{rp|7}}

As a teenager, Shantilal's bond with Shastriji Maharaj deepened, and his devoutness and intellect impressed many in the fellowship. Those Many{{who|date=Augustclose 2016}}to Shantilal felt it was only a matter of time until Shantilalhe would embark upon a monastic life by joining the order of Swaminarayan sadhusswamis under Shastriji Maharaj.<ref name="shelat7"/>

On 7 November 1939, when Shantilal was seventeen years old, he received a letter from his guru, Shastriji Maharaj, asking him to join the sadhusswamis. His parents gave their permission and blessings, and Shantilal left home that day to join Shastriji Maharaj and his sadhusswamis.<ref name=Shantipriyadas/>{{rp|11}}

Shastriji Maharaj gave Shantilal primary initiation, ''parshad diksha'', at Ambli-Vadi Pol in [[Ahmedabad]] on 22 November 1939, and renamed him Shanti Bhagat.<ref name="aksharvatsaldas2007"/> One of Shastriji Maharaj's first requests to the newly initiated Shanti Bhagat was for him to study [[Sanskrit]]; Shanti Bhagat complied with this wish, and excelled in his studies.<ref name=Shantipriyadas/>{{rp|15}}

Soon thereafter, on 10 January 1940 at the [[Akshar Deri]] in [[Gondal, India|Gondal]], Shanti Bhagat was given the ''bhagvati diksha'', initiated as a sadhuswami, and named Sadhu Narayanswarupdas Swami (meaning "the form of Narayan").<ref>(2007). name=":0" 100 Years of BAPS. p. 170. />{{ISBNRp|81-7526-377-6170}}.</ref> Upon giving him this name, Shastriji Maharaj elaborated, "His face carries the brilliance of God, so I name him Narayanswarupdas (the servant of the form of God)."<ref>{{cite book|last=Brahmaviharidas|first=Sadhu|title=Vicharan: Moments and Memories|year=1996|publisher=Swaminarayan Aksharpith|location=Ahmedabad|page=14}}</ref> [[Yogiji Maharaj]] also gave Narayanswarupdasji his blessings, observing, "He will surely become great."<ref name=Shantipriyadas/>{{rp|17}}

Renouncing worldly pleasures, Sadhu NarayanswarupdasShantilal adopted vows of [[celibacy]] (''nishkam''), non-covetousness (''nirlobh''), non-taste (''nisswad''), non-attachment (''nissneh'') and humility (''nirman'') and committed himself to lifelong dedication and service to God and humanity.<ref>Sadhu Aksharvatsaldas, translated by Sadhu Vivekjivandas (2007). Portrait of Inspiration: Pramukh Swami Maharaj. p. xvii. {{ISBN|81-7526-217-6}}.</ref> Shantilal was a [[Lacto vegetarianism|lacto-vegetarian]].<ref>Trivedi, Yogi. (2023). [https://books.google.com/books?id=PiWnEAAAQBAJ&dq=%22swamishri+adhered+to+and+inspired+millions+to+live+a+lacto-+vegetarian+lifestyle%22&pg=PT113 ''In Love, At Ease: Everyday Spirituality with Pramukh Swami'']. Penguin Random House. {{ISBN|978-9354929137}}</ref>

==Early years as a Sadhuswami==

As a young sadhuswami, Sadhu Narayanswarupdas Swami studied Sanskrit and the Hindu scriptures at [[Bhadaran]] and [[Khambhat]], earning the title “Shastri” upon mastering both scripture and philosophy.<ref name="Raymond2001">Raymond Brady Williams (2001). ''An Introduction to Swaminarayan Hinduism''. [[Cambridge University Press]]. {{ISBN|978-0-521-65422-7}}.</ref>{{rp|61}} In addition to his studies, Shastri Narayanswarupdas routinely engaged in a multitude of activities, including cleaning the temple compounds, cooking for sadhusswamis and devotees, and many other duties.<ref name=Shantipriyadas/>{{rp|17}} Shastri Narayanswarupdas also played a significant role throughout the construction of the Atladra mandir in the early 1940s. During the construction, he sustained chemical burns and blisters on his body after mixing the lime to be used in construction, yet he persisted unflinchingly in performing his service despite the injuries.<ref>Sadhu Paramananddas, translated by Sadhu Tilakratnadas (1995?). Searching Questions and Fulfilling Answers: Pramukh Swami Maharaj in Interview. pp. ix-xi. See also {{cite web |url=http://baps.org/pramukhswami/life/2.htm |title=Archived copy |accessdate=2011archive-12-01 |url-status=dead |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/2012050301111420050102002719/http://www.baps.org/pramukhswami/life/2.htm |archivedateaccess-date=32011-12-01 May|archive-date=2 2012January 2005 |df=dmy-all |title=Pramukh Swami Maharaj-Diksha }}.</ref> Serving concurrently as Shastriji Maharaj's personal secretary, Shastri Narayanswarupdas also gained a comprehensive understanding of BAPS’ broader affairs and activities.<ref name="Raymond2001"/> In 1946, when Shastri Narayanswarupdas was 25, Shastriji Maharaj appointed him the head, or "kothari", of the large BAPS temple in Salangpur.<ref name="Raymond2001"/> As head of the temple, Shastri Narayanswarupdas oversaw a major expansion of the temple facilities despite considerable financial constraints. His leadership and unassuming personality in the midst of significant hardships earned him the respect of his fellow sadhusswamis and devotees, and presaged the significant responsibility that his guru would soon entrust to him.<ref name="shelat8">{{cite book|last=Shelat|first=Kirit|title=Yug Purush Pujya Pramukh Swami Maharaj: A Life Dedicated to Others|year=2005|publisher=Shri Bhagwati Trust Publications|location=Ahmedabad|page=8}}</ref>

===Appointment as Presidentpresident===

[[File:Ambli Vali Pol.jpg|thumb|Depiction of the ceremony at Ambli Vali Pol in AmdavadAhmedabad, Gujarat, where Pramukh Swami Maharaj was appointed president of BAPS in 1951.]]

In the early part of 1950, Shastriji Maharaj wrote several letters to 28-year-old Shastri Narayanswarupdas expressing his wish to appoint him the president of the organization. Twice Shastri Narayanswarupdas wrote back respectfully declining, citing his young age and inexperience, and the presence of many senior sadhusswamis who would be more suited to the responsibility.<ref>{{cite journal|last=Vivekjivandas|first=Sadhu|title=Pramukh Varni Din|journal=Swaminarayan Bliss|date=June 2000}}</ref> Shastriji Maharaj continued to insist, sending several senior devotees to convince Shastri Narayanswarupdas. Perceiving it to be his guru's inner wish, Shastri Narayanswarupdas ultimately acquiesced.<ref name="shelat8"/>

On 21 May 1950 at Ambli-Vali Pol in [[Ahmedabad]], Shastriji Maharaj appointed Shastri Narayanswarupdas, then merely 28 years of age, as the administrative president ("Pramukh") of BAPS.<ref name="autogenerated11:0" />Sadhu Amrutvijaydas (2007). 100 Years of BAPS. p. 11. {{ISBNRp|81-7526-377-611}}.</ref> After that Shastri Narayanswarupdas was widely known as "Pramukh Swami." At the ceremony, Shastriji Maharaj placed his own shawl around Shastri Narayanswarupdas's shoulders, and asked Yogiji Maharaj to bless him.<ref name=Shantipriyadas/>{{rp|14}} Shastri Narayanswarupdas then addressed the group, "I feel overwhelmed by the kindness and love showered upon me so lavishly here by my guru, [[Shastriji Maharaj]], and by my mentor [[Yogiji Maharaj]]. Always will this day remain sacred for me, in that I am considered worthy of so great a trust and confidence by the two most noble souls of our fellowship, and by you all despite my young age."<ref>Brian Hutchinson (1985). The Guru in the Akshar Purushottam Branch of the Swaminarayan Hindu Sect. p. 65.</ref> Despite being appointed the president of the organization just hours before, that evening, Shastri Narayanswarupdas was found washing the cooking utensils and dishes used by the devotees who had attended the ceremony.<ref name=Shantipriyadas/>{{rp|14}} This incident was emblematic of the humble style of servant-leadership that would characterize the next six decades of his presidency.<ref>Sadhu Aksharvatsaldas (2008). ''Eternal Virtues: Spiritual Attributes of Pramukh Swami Maharaj''. p.251-259. {{ISBN|81-7526-395-4}}.</ref>

[[File:Yogiji Maharaj and Pramukh Swami.jpg|left|thumb|Pramukh Swami Maharaj (right) with Yogiji Maharaj (left), then the spiritual head of BAPS, in the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Gondal, Gujarat .]]

He continued to serve as the president of BAPS under guru Yogiji Maharaj after Shastriji Maharaj died in 1951. He became particularly esteemed for his aptitude as an organizer and administrator, fulfilling all of Yogiji Maharaj's goals and dreams for the organization.<ref name="Raymond2001"/> For instance, he helped Yogiji Maharaj in expanding the faith to England and East Africa in 1960 and 1970, constructing new temples, and instituting new programs within the organization. Throughout these efforts, he remained unassuming in his conduct and uncomplaining during the hardships he encountered.{{which|date=August 2016}}

Before dying in 1971, Yogiji Maharaj had explained to sadhusswamis and devotees, "From now onwards, Pramukh Swami Maharaj will carry on my work…Pramukh Swami is my everything".<ref name=Shantipriyadas/>{{rp|35}}

[[File:BAPS Akshardham New Delhi.jpg|thumb|300x300px|[[Swaminarayan Akshardham (New Delhi)|Swaminarayan Akshardham, New Delhi]] (2007)]]

Under his leadership, BAPS rapidly grew into a global Hindu organization and witnessed a significant expansion in many measurable parameters. As Currently{{when?|date=Mayof 2017}}2019, BAPS encompasses over one million devotees, more than 900 sadhusswamis, 3,300 mandirs and congregations, over 7,200 weekly assemblies, and a host of humanitarian and charitable activities.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.baps.org/About-BAPS.aspx|title=About BAPS|website=BAPS|language=en-US|access-date=2019-12-03}}</ref> He accompanied Yogiji Maharaj on a tour of East Africa in 1960<ref name=Shantipriyadas/>{{rp|291}} as well as in 1970, and embarked upon his first overseas visit as the guru, or spiritual leader, of BAPS in 1974.<ref name=":0">Sadhu Amrutvijaydas (2007). {{Cite book|title=100 Yearsyears of BAPS. : pfoundation--formation--fruition|last=Amrutvijaydas.|date=2009|publisher=Swaminarayan 74.Aksharpith|others=Swaminarayan {{ISBNAksharpith.|isbn=978-81-7526-377-62|edition=2nd|location=Ahmedabad|oclc=748287143}}.</ref> {{Rp|74}} In the following decades, his 27 international spiritual tours spanned over fifty countries in five continents.<ref>Sadhu Amrutvijaydas (2007). 100 Years of BAPS. p. 190.name=":0" />{{ISBNRp|81-7526-377-6190}}.</ref>

[[File:BAPS Mandir Chino Hills.jpg|left|thumb|300x300px|[[BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Chino Hills|BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Chino Hills, California]] (2013)]]

On 4 June 1971, in the village of Sankari, he consecrated the first temple after Yogiji Maharaj's death.<ref>Sadhu Amrutvijaydas (2007). 100 Years of BAPS. p. 70.name=":0" />{{ISBNRp|81-7526-377-670}}.</ref> After that he inaugurated hundreds of temples and centers around the world, leading to his recognition for having consecrated the greatest number of Hindu temples.<ref>Hanna Kim (2010). Public Engagement and Personal Desires: BAPS Swaminarayan Temples and their Contribution to the Discourses on Religion. International Journal of Hindu Studies. p. 2.</ref> In total. he consecrated 125 temples abroad, and 1,000 in India.<ref name=":1" /> Outside India, such temples include ''shikharbaddha'' temples in the metropolitan areas of [[Houston]], [[Atlanta]], [[Chicago]], [[London]], [[Toronto]], and [[Nairobi]].<ref>John Zavos (2010). Negotiating Minority/Majority Religious Identity: Exploring the Social Location of a Transnational Religious Organisation in Britain and India. Rindas, The Center for the Study of Contemporary India, Ryukoku University. International Symposium Series 1. p. 104.</ref> The temple in the [[Atlanta]] metro area is currently recognized as the largest traditional Hindu temple outside the Indian subcontinent.<ref>Associated Press, Hindu Temple in Atlanta Suburbs Will Be Largest in U.S., Aug 22, 2007. Available at <nowiki>http://blog.beliefnet.com/news/2007/08/hindu-temple-in-atlanta-suburb.php</nowiki></ref> Within India, he is credited as the inspirer of the Swaminarayan Akshardham complexes in [[Akshardham (Gandhinagar)|Gandhinagar]] and [[Akshardham (Delhi)|New Delhi]], itself the world's largest comprehensive Hindu temple.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2007-12-26/news/27689947_1_hindu-temple-akshardham-temple-spiritual-leader-and-head |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131201041846/http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2007-12-26/news/27689947_1_hindu-temple-akshardham-temple-spiritual-leader-and-head |url-status=dead |archive-date=1 December 2013 |title=Akshardham temple enters Guinness Book of World Records - Economic Times |publisher=Articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com |date=2007-12-26 |accessdateaccess-date=2013-04-22}}</ref> In discussing BAPS’ efforts to construct traditional Hindu temples around the world, Pramukh Swami emphasized the importance of such houses of worship in modern society and values and faith they inspire in members of the community.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120523192132/http://www.mandir.org/mandir/concepts.htm|title=Mandir Concepts - BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London|date=2012-05-23|websitearchive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120523192132/http://www.mandir.org/mandir/concepts.htm|access-date=2019-12-03|archive-date=23 May 2012}}</ref>

[[File:UN World Peace Summit.jpg|thumb|300x300px|Pramukh Swami Maharaj addressing the United Nations Millennium World Peace Summit in New York (2000).]]

In addition to meeting with and providing spiritual guidance to devotees during his international visits, he met with other religious and civic leaders. Brian Hutchinson notes that in speaking with these individuals, the pramukh "consistently emphasizes what religions hold in common and advocates cooperation between them with the purpose of uplifting the moral and religious life of mankind".<ref>Brian Hutchinson (1985). The Guru in the Akshar Purushottam Branch of the Swaminarayan Hindu Sect. pp. 65-66.</ref> The sentiments he shared with world religious leaders at the 2000 Millennium World Peace Summit at the United Nations reflected a similar message. In his address, he emphasized the goal of cooperation and mutual respect among religions, for "religion is that which spreads love for one another". He also expressed a desire that all forms of organized religion be able to coexist in harmony, noting that "flourishing together is the secret of peace". In particular, he analogized every religion to a goldmine of values from which all people could draw lessons for life. Pramukh Swami also encouraged his fellow spiritual leaders to teach their followers that religion does not grow by quantity of followers, but by quality of spirituality. In his words, "a Hindu should become a better Hindu, a Jew should become a better Jew, a Christian should become a better Christian, a Muslim should become a better Muslim. If the follower of every religion becomes a better and true follower then our world will be a much better world".<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.swaminarayan.org/news/2000/08/peacesummit/index.htm |title=HDH Pramukh Swami Maharaj Addresses World Peace Summit, UN |publisher=Swaminarayan.org |date=August 2000 |accessdateaccess-date=2013-04-22}}</ref>

This vision of harmony through dialogue characterized his message within BAPS and beyond. During the [[2002 Gujarat riots|2002 communal riots in Gujarat]] and the [[Akshardham Temple attack|terror attack on the Akshardham complex]] in Gandhinagar, he urged the public to maintain peace and unity.<ref>Hindu Press International, Religious Leaders Appeal for Peace in Gujarat, September 26, 2002, available at http://hinduismtoday.com/blogs-news/hindu-press-international/religious-leaders-appeal-for-peace-in-gujarat/2242.html</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.baps.org/News/2002/Pramukh-Swami-Maharajs-Appeal--Prayer-for-Peace-1865.aspx|title=Pramukh Swami Maharaj's Appeal & Prayer for Peace|website=BAPS|language=en-US|access-date=2019-12-03}}</ref> His response and guidance during those times was commended by leaders and commentators, including the National Security commando in charge of the rescue mission during the Akshardham attack, who later asserted that "what [the pramukh] did was unbelievable. He pieced society back together".<ref>Ajay Umat, Akshardham Ideal Terror Response, The Times of India, September 28, 2011</ref>

[[File:Cultural Festival of India.jpg|left|thumb|300x300px|Cultural Festival of India in Edison, NJ (1991)]]

He led BAPS’ efforts in conducting a number of large-scale cultural festivals, with the aim of fostering better understanding and appreciation of Hindu traditions and promoting moral and spiritual living.<ref name="autogenerated11:0" />{{Rp|11}} The month-long Cultural Festival of India held in [[Edison, New Jersey]] during the summer of 1991, for instance, showcased traditional Indian arts, architecture, dance, and music as well as Hindu culture and spirituality, aiming to foster deeper intercultural and interfaith understanding to the over one million visitors who attended.<ref>Sadhu Amrutvijaydas (2007). 100 Years of BAPS. p. 110.name=":0" />{{ISBNRp|81-7526-377-6110}}.</ref>

===SadhusSwamis===

[[File:BAPS monks.jpg|thumb|300x300px|BAPS sadhusswamis with Pramukh Swami Maharaj in SalangpurSarangpur, Gujarat, India (2016)]]

Beginning with his first sadhuswami initiation ceremony in January 1971, during his lifetime he initiated over 8501,000 youth into the sadhuswami fold.<ref name=Shantipriyadas/>{{rp|292}}<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|title=Work|url=https://pramukhswami.org/work/|access-date=2020-06-16|website=pramukhswami.org|language=en-US}}</ref> Hutchinson observes that his "selfless love…was his most frequently and enthusiastically reported characteristic that had influenced persons to become devotees and sadhusswamis".<ref name="autogenerated105">Brian Hutchinson (1996) The Divine-Human Figure in the Transmission of Religious Transition. Published in Raymond Williams’ A Sacred Thread: Modern Transmission of Hindu Traditions in India and Abroad. Columbia University Press. p. 105.</ref> After renouncing worldly ambitions, these sadhusswamis were guided by him in their service of God and society.<ref name="autogenerated11:0" /> {{Rp|11}} Milestone events in this realm include the bicentenary celebrations of [[Swaminarayan]] in 1981 and of [[Gunatitanand Swami]] in 1985, which saw the initiation of 200 and 173 sadhusswamis, respectively, in a single day.<ref name=Shantipriyadas/>{{rp|294}} On 14 March 2012, he initiated 68 youths into the monastic order during a ceremony in SalangpurSarangpur, Gujarat.<ref>{{cite journal |last=Mahurkar |first=Uday |title=The Monks who abandoned Ferraris |journal=India Today |date=2 April 2012 |pages=66–67 |url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/nris-turn-into-new-age-monks-for-spirituality/1/179072.html }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Diksha Ceremony 2012, Sarangpur, India |url=http://www.baps.org/News/2012/Diksha-Ceremony-2012-3523.aspx |publisher=BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha |accessdateaccess-date=16 June 2012 }}</ref>

[[File:Pramukh swami samadhi sthal, salangpur,Botad, Gujarat.jpg|thumb|Shrine erected at the place of cremation, SalangpurSarangpur]]

He had been suffering from a [[lung infection|chest infection]] in his last days from which he was gradually recovering. However, due to his longstanding heart problems, he died on 13 August 2016, at 6 pm at the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, [[Salangpur, Gujarat|SalangpurSarangpur]], [[Botad district]], Gujarat, India.<ref name="InEX2016">{{cite web | title=Pramukh Swami Maharaj passes away, PM Narendra Modi says will miss his presence | website=The Indian Express | date=13 August 2016 | url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/pramukh-swami-maharaj-passes-away-pm-narendra-modi-says-will-miss-his-presence-2973555/ | accessdateaccess-date=13 August 2016}}</ref><ref name="BAPSPS2016">{{cite web | title=PRESS RELEASE: 13 Aug 2016 | website=BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha | date=13 August 2016 | url=http://www.baps.org/Announcement/2016/PRESS-RELEASE-13-Aug-2016-925.aspx | language=gu | accessdateaccess-date=13 August 2016}}</ref><ref name="Zee News2016">{{cite web | title=Pramukh Swami Maharaj, head of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, passes away in Sarangpur | website=Zee News | date=13 August 2016 | url=http://zeenews.india.com/news/india/pramukh-swami-maharaj-head-of-baps-passes-away-in-sarangpur_1918578.html | language=la | accessdateaccess-date=13 August 2016}}</ref> On 20 July 2012, Pramukh Swami had declared in the presence of senior sadhusswamis that [[Mahant Swami Maharaj]] would succeed him as the sixth guru and spiritual head of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha.<ref name="baps.org"/>

Followers of [[BAPS]] believed him to be a manifestation of "Akshar", the form of the eternal abode of God. As Akshar he was also in constant communion with God. Accordingly, he was considered by devotees to be "the perfect servant of God, …totally filled with God and therefore worthy of reverence and worship".<ref name="Raymond2001"/>{{rp|87–95}}

The living guru is considered by followers of BAPS to be the ideal ''sadhu''swami, the perfect devotee, and the principal target for emulation by all spiritual aspirants. He was often described by followers as a personification of the sacred scriptures.<ref name="Raymond2001"/>{{rp|94}} He was viewed as "fully ''brahmanized''", or having achieved the ultimate level of spiritual development.<ref name=GDR>Brian Hutchinson (1998) ''The Guru-Devotee Relationship in the Experience of the Members of the Akshar-Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha''.</ref>{{rp|151}}

Devotees considered him to exemplify all the ideals of the religion; he was viewed as the first disciple, most faithful in his observance of the commandments, most active in propagation of the religion, the best interpreter of the meaning of the scriptures, and the most effective in eradicating the ignorance that separates man from God.<ref name="Raymond1996">Raymond Brady Williams (1996). "The Holy Man as the Abode of God in the Swaminarayan Religion". In Joanne P. Waghorne and Norman Cutler’s ''Gods of Flesh, Gods of Stone: The Embodiment of Divinity in India''. [[Columbia University Press]]. {{ISBN|0-89012-037-4}}.</ref>{{rp|153}} His conduct was hence considered to be that of the "ideal saint" and "perfect ''bhakta'' (devotee)", providing a tangible and graspable example for the spiritual aspirant to follow.<ref>Hanna Kim ''[http://en.scientificcommons.org/48403746 Being Swaminarayan: The Ontology and Significance of Belief in the Construction of a Gujarati Diaspora]''. Columbia University Press (2001) p.354.</ref> Devotees viewed his staunch respect for Shastriji Maharaj and Yogiji Maharaj as the model of devotion to one's guru.<ref name="Brear1996">A.D. Brear, "[http://www.basr.ac.uk/diskus/diskus1-6/BREAR.TXT The Authority of Pramukh Swami within the Swaminarayan Hindu Mission] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130731124320/http://www.basr.ac.uk/diskus/diskus1-6/BREAR.TXT |date=31 July 2013 }}" (1996). DISKUS Vol.4, No.1.</ref>

[[File:BAPS Akshardham Gandhinagar.jpg|thumb|Prayer assembly after the 2002 terrorist attack at [[Swaminarayan Akshardham (Gandhinagar)|Swaminarayan Akshardham]] in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India.]]

His practice of carrying the ''[[murti]]'' of Swaminarayan before him and directing all garlands or offerings presented to him to the image was also seen as a paradigm of humility and selflessness.<ref name="Raymond1996"/>{{rp|150}} Similarly, devotees viewed his actions in September 2002, when he appealed for peace and forgiveness of Muslim militants who killed 32 people and injured dozens more in an attack on Akshardham Gandhinagar, to epitomize the Hindu tenet of [[ahimsa]], or nonviolence.<ref>John Statton Hawley and Vasudha Narayanan (2006). ''The Life of Hinduism''. University of California Press. pp. 4-5. {{ISBN|978-0-520-24913-4}}.</ref> His personality and conduct thus served as exemplars for devotees striving to progress personally and spiritually.

Followers believed that by associating with him, they might rid themselves of their vices, baser instincts, and worldly attachments.<ref name="Raymond1996"/> Earning the grace of the guru, devotees believed, would enable them to achieve liberation in which they would escape the cycle of births and deaths and attain "Akshardham" (God's divine abode).<ref name="Raymond1996"/>{{rp|149}}

For a devotee of BAPS, he was considered the essential spiritual link with God.<ref name="autogenerated105"/> According to the teachings of Swaminarayan, devotees consider God (Swaminarayan) to be manifest through Pramukh Swami Maharaj.<ref name=GDR/>{{rp|149}} Thus, his followers believed that by offering devotion to Pramukh Swami, they offer it to Swaminarayan himself.<ref name=GDR />{{rp|147}}

Pramukh Swami was approached by many followers for guidance in all aspects of life.<ref name=GDR />{{rp|144}} Devotees frequently took to him matters of personal, family, and business affairs and seek his guidance.<ref name="Raymond1996"/>{{rp|154}} This type of communication was thought to be an important aspect of the guru-disciple relationship.<ref name="Raymond2004">Raymond Brady Williams (2004). ''Williams on South Asian Religions and Immigration: Collected Works''. Chapter Seven: Guru as Pastoral Counselor. {{ISBN|9780754638568}}.</ref>{{rp|107}} Accordingly, Pramukh Swami spent much time counseling devotees in person or by letters or telephone.<ref name="autogenerated11:0" /> {{Rp|11}} Women could not directly receive advice from Pramukh Swami due to his vows as a sadhuswami in the Swaminarayan tradition that prohibit him from interacting directly with females. Women had to ask male relatives to approach Pramukh Swami on their behalf, or had written messages sent to him to ask for guidance.<ref name="Raymond2004"/>{{rp|112}}

Raymond Williams reports that through such pastoral counseling, "Pramukh Swami instructs his followers to believe in God, because without belief in the inspiration of God and faith, nothing is possible".<ref name="Raymond2004"/>{{rp|109}} Young devotees approaching Pramukh Swami for advice and guidance were often counseled to focus on their education.<ref name="Raymond1996"/> Williams notes that devotees trust Pramukh Swami's advice due to his theological role as guru and manifestation of Akshar, but also because "as a world-renouncer, he is impartial and gains no personal advantage from helping them with decisions."<ref name="Raymond2004"/>{{rp|108}}

[[Category:Swaminarayan sectPresidents of Hinduismreligious organizations]]