In 1995 under the inspiration and guidance of Pramukh Swami Maharaj when the Neasden Temple became a reality world reknowned Readers’ Digest magazine described it as ‘the 8th Wonder of the World’. It made me very proud. Since then I have visitied Neasden Temple several times. The environment, spiritual presence, cleanliness and services rendered by the santos and volunteers is rather unique. I wish other Hindu temples visit Neasden Temple and get inspired on how to serve their devotees in a better way.
Recently I witnessed the Shilanyas (the foundation stone laying) ceremony of the Akshardham - which will become a reality in two years - in Abu Dhabi in the heart of the United Arab Emirates by the Indian Prime Minister, local Sheikhs and dignitaries from around the world. Like Neasden Temple it will inspire an innumerable number of people.
I also remember, with some sadness and equally some pride, what happened when the first Akshardham in Gandhinagar in Gujarat was attacked by some religious bigots - terrorists - when several people lost their lives and many were injured. In those delicate days Pramukh Swami Maharaj called for peace, harmony and forgiveness. Not one revenge attack was carried out on any Muslim mosque or place of worship in Gujarat or India - such was the power of persuasion from Pramukh Swami Maharaj.
This is also a manifestation to the age-old message of Sanatan Dharma. Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam - the whole world is one family.
BAPS, under the guidance of Pramukh Swami Maharaj transformed itself from a relatively smaller Hindu sect into a world wide phenomenon with over 130,000 temples which are not mere places of worship of a particualr deity but give solace, warmth and inspiration to all those young and old of different faiths and makes them better citizens of the world.
Gandhinagar’s Akshardham was the stage for the Delhi Akshardham which has its own worldwide importance as will the one in Robinsville, New Jersey but an even grander one is being built in Abu Dabhi. In a Muslim region of the Middle East not well known for religious tolerance or multifaith traditions a Sanatan Hindu Temple will be created in about two years. I pray to all the vairous gods and goddesses we humans worship to enlighten our souls, educate our leaders and encourage the common folk to follow the path of peace, non violence and harmony. I must congratulate the Sheikh and other powerful people in the region and everywhere who have given us an opporetunity of a more tolerant and mutually respectful environment.
P Santosh
London
