The Diksha of Mulji Sharma
Having quelled the disturbance caused by the riotous Brahmins and effected the moral transformation of the notorious dacoit Joban Pagi, on the concluding day of the historic 18-day yagna held in Dabhan, Bhagwan Swaminarayan initiates Mulji Sharma into the sadhu-fold. The Lord reveals him to be the manifestation of Aksharbrahma and explains his real glory to all.

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Pramukh Swami Maharaj Blesses Bill Cilnton at Akshardham
On 5 April 2001, former US President Bill Clinton visited Akshardham in Gandhinagar. This report describes the 55-minute visit and the lasting impressions left on the former president's mind. He was highly impressed by the art, architecture and ideas presented with the combination of traditional art and modern technology.
Bill Clinton revealed how in their previous meeting in Miami on 4 October 2000, when he was still President, Pramukh Swami Maharaj's saintliness and integrity had impressed him.
(Detailed web report)

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Varahamihir
Varahamihir (499-587CE) was a renowned astrologer and astronomer who was honored with a special decoration and status as one of the nine gems in the court of King Vikramaditya in Avanti (Ujjain).
Varahamihir's book Panchsiddhant holds a prominent place in the realm of astronomy. He notes that the moon and planets are lustrous not because of their own light but due to sunlight. In the Bruhadsamhita and Bruhajjatak he has revealed his discoveries in the domains of geography, constellation science, botany and animal science. In his treatise on botanical science, Varahamihir presents cures for various diseases afflicting plants and trees.
Read about his life and works in this well-researched article.

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Prince Charles Visits Swaminarayan Mandir, London
Following the earthquake in Gujarat, concerned people throughout the world rallied to raise support and assistance for the victims. Having catered for the immediate and short-term requirements, BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha has adopted a number of villages which it will be fully reconstructing. Prince Charles's second visit to the Shree Swaminarayan Mandir in London (his first visit was in 1996) was specifically to launch this rehabilitation project.
This report incorporates the text of his speech and other details of his visit.
(Detailed web report)

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Earthquake Rehabilitation Assembly
Having inspired and coordinated the BAPS earthquake relief work in Bhuj, Pramukh Swami Maharaj visited the devastated city. A special assembly was held in his presence and the next phase of the Sanstha's rehabilitation work was initiated.
(Detailed web report)

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BAPS Rehabilitation Plans for Earthquake-Hit Villages
The need now is to focus on the long-term rehabilitation process. The BAPS has adopted a number of villages and detailed planning for reconstructing these destroyed villages has been carried out.
Taking the example of one such village, Gunatitpur, this article gives an idea of the type of detailed considerations taken into account in the planning.

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BAPS Cattle Camps in Gujarat
Overshadowed by the recent earthquake, but not forgotten, the battle against the drought in Gujarat continues. The BAPS has started five cattle camps to look after thousands of cattle until the rains come. Meticulously planned and efficiently operated these cattle camps take care of every requirement of the cattle.
(Detailed web report)

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Tribal Assembly
A special ceremony in which 8,000 tribal villagers pledge to stop consuming meat, alcohol and addictions.


National Children's Activity Coordinators Convention, UK
A 3-day convention at London Mandir geared towards training the youths involved in the children's wing.

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Achievements
A summary of the socio-spiritual works of Pramukh Swami Maharaj in 2000. This analysis reveals just how hectic his schedule is and that even though he is 80 years old, he continues to set higher standards. It includes facts and figures of his travels, special ceremonies, celebrations and awards.

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