New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday highlighted that saints and sages, throughout history, have played a crucial role in helping humanity realize its purpose, making a tremendous contribution to society.
Speaking at a program via video conference to mark the 200th-anniversary celebrations of the Shree Swaminarayan Mandir in Vadtal, Gujarat, PM Modi said, “Every person’s life has a purpose that defines it. When we discover our life’s purpose, it transforms everything. Saints and sages have, in every era, guided humanity to realize its purpose. This has been a profound contribution of saints and sages to our society.”
He also noted that the occasion serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Indian culture.
“We have preserved the spiritual essence of the Vadtal Dham, established by Lord Swaminarayan 200 years ago. The teachings and energy of Lord Swaminarayan continue to resonate here. I am also pleased that the Government of India has issued a silver coin worth ₹200 and a commemorative stamp to mark this occasion,” Prime Minister Modi said.
The Prime Minister emphasized that this event is not merely a tribute to history but a meaningful opportunity for those, like himself, who have grown up with unwavering faith in Vadtal Dham.
He added, “India has a unique tradition—whenever challenging times arise, a great sage or saint emerges to guide us. The arrival of Lord Swaminarayan occurred during a period when the country, weakened by centuries of foreign rule, had lost its self-confidence. At that time, Lord Swaminarayan not only revitalized our spiritual energy but also restored our self-respect.”
“We must carry forward his teachings. Inspired by his vision, Vadtal Dham has become a prominent center for serving humanity and building a better world,” the Prime Minister stated.
PM Modi also noted that the people associated with the Shree Swaminarayan Mandir have always played a significant role in responding to any appeal he made.
“From ‘Swachhta to the environment,’ I am pleased that whenever I have made an appeal, all the saints and devotees have always supported me. You have taken my words to heart and worked wholeheartedly to fulfill them. Recently, I appealed for the ‘Ek Ped Maa ke Naam’ campaign, and the Swaminarayan community has planted over 1,00,000 trees under this initiative,” he said.
The Shree Swaminarayan Mandir in Vadtal has had a profound impact on the social and spiritual lives of people for many decades.
Also known as Vadtal Swaminarayan, the temple serves as the spiritual hub of the Shree Swaminarayan Sampradaya, which has now spread globally. Built on the command of Bhagwan Shree Swaminarayan by Sadguru Shree Brahmanand Swami and Sadguru Shree Aksharanand Swami, the temple is designed in the shape of a lotus, symbolizing harmony among all religions. It also features depictions of past avatars of gods and goddesses, with nine domes adorning the structure.
The pillars of the temple are intricately carved with colorful stone designs, and the construction was completed in just 15 months. The walls of the temple are decorated with vibrant scenes from the Ramayana.
