On Saturday, April 5, Prime Minister Mark Carney visited the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Toronto on the auspicious occasion of the birth anniversaries of Bhagwan Shri Swaminarayan and Bhagwan Shri Ram. The visit highlighted a powerful message of unity, faith, cultural appreciation, and interfaith harmony, as Canada’s leader engaged with the Hindu community and participated in sacred rituals.
Upon his arrival, the Prime Minister was greeted by the Board of Directors of BAPS Canada and welcomed in traditional Hindu fashion at the Abhishek Mandapam, where he was honoured with a rose garland by Pujya Gunsagardas Swami, Head Swami of BAPS activities in Canada. Senior Swamis, Pujya Gnanpriyadas Swami and Pujya Yagnavallabhdas Swami, led sacred rituals with the Prime Minister, including the abhishek of Nilkanth Varni Maharaj, offering prayers for peace and global well-being.
Mr. Carney toured the intricately carved Mandir, expressing admiration for its architectural grandeur and spiritual significance. He joined the Swamis in performing arti and made a floral offering at the Mandir’s central shrine, symbolizing his respect for the spiritual heritage and traditions upheld by the Mandir community.
In a meaningful moment during the visit, the Prime Minister was presented with a special multilingual edition of the Satsang Diksha scripture, authored by His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, the current spiritual leader of BAPS. The scripture, written in Sanskrit, Gujarati, English, and French, reflects the inclusive and diverse vision embraced by BAPS and Canada alike.
A letter of blessings from Mahant Swami Maharaj, sent from India, was read aloud in Mr. Carney’s presence. It offered heartfelt prayers for his continued strength and clarity as he leads the nation, and expressed appreciation for his visit to the Mandir. The letter read in part:
“Your visit is deeply appreciated, and prayers have been offered to Bhagwan Swaminarayan for your continued strength and clarity, as you lead the Nation of Canada with wisdom, strength, and integrity… Prayers have also been offered for Canada’s continued success and for the well-being of its citizens.”
Before his departure, the Prime Minister inscribed a message in the Mandir’s guest book, writing:
“With the deepest appreciation for your prayers and hospitality, and with all my conviction to work without fail to promote peace, unity, harmony and prosperity for Canada, India and all nations.”
Mr. Carney also spent time engaging with community leaders and devotees, making the visit not just a ceremonial occasion, but a meaningful celebration of the shared values of faith, service, and inclusion.
The birth anniversaries of Bhagwan Shri Swaminarayan and Bhagwan Shri Ram are revered by Hindus worldwide for their embodiment of virtues such as non-violence, devotion, righteousness, and selfless service. These values are core to the mission of BAPS, which promotes moral living and spiritual development across its global network of over 3,500 communities.
The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Toronto stands as a symbol of cultural preservation, spiritual enrichment, and humanitarian service. Open to people of all backgrounds, the Mandir offers youth development programs, spiritual guidance, and community service through BAPS Charities, embodying the spirit of unity that contributes to Canada’s multicultural landscape.