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Baps BAPS The Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), a socio-spiritual organization with its roots in the Vedas, was revealed by Bhagwan Swaminarayan in the late 18th century and established in June 5, 1907 CE by Swami Yagnapurushdas. Founded on the pillars of practical spirituality, it reaches out far and wide to clear the confusions and questions in our moral, social and material world of today. Its strength lies in the purity of its nature and purpose. The Sanstha strives to better the world by consolidating character in societies, families and individuals. This is done not just by mottos and slogans but by mass motivation and individual attention, through elevating projects for all, irrespective of class, creed, color and country. The Sanstha's universal work has received many national welfare awards and the affiliation to the United Nations. Its international network has flourished into 9,090 Youth, Children and Women centers, over 700 sadhus, 55,000 volunteers and the dedication of over one million followers. The hallmark of the Swaminarayan devotee is that he or she devoutly begins the day with puja and meditation, works or studies honestly and donates regular hours in serving others. He/she observes the five principal vows: No Stealing, No Adultery, No Alcohol, No Meat, No Impurity of body and mind. Such moral purity and spiritual surety add a deeper brilliance to all the hundreds of social services performed for a better life. Today the Sanstha is led by Pramukh Swami Maharaj. Pujya Pramukh Swami Maharaj is the fifth spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan and the present leader of Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha. He leads an austere life of lifetime celibacy, without personal wealth or comfort. Representing the essence of Hinduism,his compassion for humanity, universal wisdom and striking simplicity have touched many world religious and national leaders. Pujya Pramukh Swami Maharaj claims to be the incarnation of God. He has been a strong influence on the BAPS institution, eventually converting into a personality cult. Pramukh Swami Maharaj is widely accepted by all Satsangis (Swaminarayan sect followers refer to themselves as Satsangi - meaning "One who dwells in the presence of good people"). Shri Mahant Swami Maharaj is considered to be a successor to Pramukh Swami. The Swaminarayan Sect is popular as a sect involving many branches and fights. Mahant Swami followers are more inclined towards Mahant Swami rather than Pramukh Swami. On Saturday 8 July 2000, Shree Swaminarayan Mandir, Neasden, London was the venue for a unique ceremony. Four thousand devotees and guests proudly witnessed the presentation of certificates for TWO WORLD RECORDS to His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj. The Managing Editor of Guinness Book of Records, Mr Tim Footman presented His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj with certificates marking his entries into the world famous record book. The first certificate presented to His Holiness was for building and inspiring the largest traditional Hindu Mandir outside India. The second certificate marked a record 355 Temple Consecration Ceremonies performed by His Holiness between April 1971 and May 2000. External Links *http://www.mahantswami.com/ The next Guru after Pramukh Swami
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