BAPS Hosts "My Country, My Duty" Event Honoring RTPD

BAPS’ Festival of Inspirations Highlights Civic Duty & Public Service

ROBBINSVILLE, NJ - (August 10, 2023) - BAPS hosted a special cultural program themed, 'My Country, My Duty,' at the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in Robbinsville on August 10, 2023 as part of the Festival of Inspirations.

The BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham is a product of one such call to duty by thousands of volunteers who made a selfless choice to contribute their time and efforts to something greater than themselves.

Among the distinguished guests were Robbinsville Mayor David L. Fried, RTPD Chief Michael Polaski and West Windsor Chief Robert Garapolo. Children lined the inside of one of the majestic structures to present law enforcement officers "Thank You" cards and other well wishes.

Pujya Chaitanyamurti Swami's impactful speech at the "My Country, My Duty" program underscored Pramukh Swami Maharaj's belief that serving one's nation is a form of dharma. He equated national service to serving one's guru, highlighting that the essence of service is integral to Akshardham's foundation, inspired by Pramukh Swami Maharaj and Mahant Swami Maharaj. The dedication of Festival of Inspirations volunteers, evident in both Akshardham and local communities, embodies this spirit.

During the program, public servants such as police officers, firefighters, and elected officials were honored for their dedication to protecting and serving their communities. A donation of $5,000 was presented to the Rapid Response Partnership of Mercer County on behalf of BAPS, in recognition of their efforts responding to incidents of high complexity. Another $5,000 donation was also presented to the 200 Club of Mercer County, an association dedicated to providing financial assistance to families of essential personnel who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, the spiritual head of BAPS, conveyed that any profession can be transformed into a service for the broader benefit. "Whether you're a doctor, a teacher, or any other professional, strive to excel in your role. Don't just be ordinary; be outstanding in a way that contributes positively to society."

Future events can be viewed HERE. Robbinsville residents wishing to donate blood through the BAPS can use THIS LINK to register.