How Do BAPS and the United Nations Celebrate 30 Years of Transformative Partnership for Global Harmony?
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Synopsis
Join us in celebrating 30 years of the remarkable partnership between BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha and the United Nations, which emphasizes peace, harmony, and service. This special event not only marks significant milestones but also showcases the commitment of global leaders to foster unity and collective progress. Discover how spirituality and service intertwine in this inspiring gathering.
Key Takeaways
- BAPS and the United Nations have a longstanding partnership promoting global harmony.
- Significant milestones include 30 years of collaboration and a notable address by Pramukh Swami Maharaj.
- International dignitaries united in their commitment to peace and service.
- The event emphasized the importance of shared values and collaboration.
- Spirituality and service are intertwined in community efforts.
Vienna (Austria), Nov 22 (NationPress) The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, in partnership with the Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations, organized a significant gathering at the UN Office in Austria, reinforcing their joint commitment to advancing mutual principles and objectives.
This event marked two pivotal anniversaries – three decades of BAPS' collaboration with the UN's Economic and Social Council and the 25th year since His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj delivered his notable address at the Millennium World Peace Summit at the UN headquarters in New York, US.
Numerous diplomats and dignitaries from various countries, including Afghanistan, Egypt, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, and the US, joined UN officials and community leaders in reiterating their dedication to peace, harmony, and service.
The speakers at the event emphasized the significance of collaboration and shared values.
Vikram Jeet Duggal, Counsellor at the Indian Mission, commended the common ethos between BAPS and the UN—unity, inclusion, and collective progress.
Peri Lynne Johnson, Assistant Director General at the UN's Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), acknowledged the uplifting themes of the event—'Light, Peace and Partnership'—and remarked, "It's fitting that BAPS... is uniting the UN community in Vienna."
Highlighting BAPS' initiatives for refugees in Ukraine and other contributions in the United States, she expressed, "Hearing about BAPS' work feels like home again."
Yuko Yasunaga, Deputy Director General of the UN's Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), stressed the importance of partnership between civil society and public institutions for sustainable development, reiterating BAPS' commitment to collaborate as good neighbors.
Yann Dubosc, Mayor of Bussy-Saint-Georges in Paris, praised BAPS' expanding role in fostering intercultural understanding in Europe, particularly through the upcoming mandir in Paris.
"BAPS' initiatives within numerous local communities demonstrate how spirituality and service can coexist," he noted.
Brahmaviharidas Swami, Head of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, spoke on 'Peace through Partnership', promoting selfless service and generosity.
The event concluded with blessings from Mahant Swami Maharaj, who encouraged attendees to "become a lamp of goodness that illuminates the world around us."
Point of View
Underscoring the importance of interfaith dialogue and community service. Such partnerships can inspire positive change and foster understanding among diverse cultures, aligning with the principles of unity and inclusion that our nation values.
NationPress
22/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was celebrated at the event?
The event celebrated 30 years of BAPS' partnership with the UN's Economic and Social Council and the 25th anniversary of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj's address at the Millennium World Peace Summit.
Who attended the event?
The event was attended by diplomats and dignitaries from various countries, including Afghanistan, Egypt, India, and the US, along with UN officials and community leaders.
What themes were highlighted during the event?
The themes of 'Light, Peace and Partnership' were emphasized, showcasing the uplifting message of collaboration for a better future.
