Brahmavihari Swami, Head of International Relations at BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, extended warm birthday greetings to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 17 September 2026 as the Prime Minister turned 76, lauding his role in elevating India's standing on the world stage. The occasion also marks 25 years of Modi's public life, a milestone Brahmavihari Swami noted with particular significance.

A Bond Rooted in Decades of Guidance

Brahmavihari Swami recalled knowing Modi from his formative years as a grassroots worker. 'Since 1981, he used to go to his holiness Param Pujya Pramukh Swami Maharaj, whom he considered like his own father,' the senior monk said. He described how the late spiritual leader guided Modi through the principles of social service and moral responsibility, with the future Prime Minister regularly seeking his counsel and blessings.

Brahmavihari Swami recounted being personally present when Pramukh Swami Maharaj blessed Modi upon his oath-taking as Chief Minister of Gujarat — a moment he described as foundational. The spiritual mentor's guiding message, he noted, was one of selfless and ceaseless service: 'till his last breath, there is only one thing in life, that is to serve, serve selflessly, to serve ceaselessly.'

Praise for Inclusive Development and Global Leadership

Brahmavihari Swami expressed pride in what he characterised as Modi's record of leading India toward greater development for citizens across all religious denominations, while also contributing positively to the broader global community. He drew a distinction between leaders who impose their views and those who grow by absorbing the perspectives and strengths of others — implicitly casting Modi in the latter mould.

'True leaders become great by taking everyone forward together,' he said, conveying his wishes on behalf of BAPS and personally.

Who Is Brahmavihari Swami

Brahmavihari Swami is among the most senior monks within the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha and serves as a global spokesperson for the organisation. Born to Gujarati immigrant parents, he was raised in Leicester, United Kingdom, and has played a central role in BAPS's international outreach and diplomacy. His remarks carry weight beyond ceremonial birthday wishes, given the longstanding institutional relationship between BAPS and successive Indian governments.

Context and Significance

This is not the first time BAPS leadership has publicly acknowledged Modi's political journey — the Sanstha has maintained a visible connection with the Prime Minister going back to his Gujarat days. The birthday tribute, coming as India holds an elevated profile in multilateral forums, reinforces the narrative of spiritual and national identity that BAPS has long championed. Notably, the remarks coincide with a period of heightened Indian diplomatic activity, lending the tribute added resonance beyond a routine greeting.