Thousands witnessed the inauguration of the BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute, Australia, at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Sydney.

His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj blessed the event via a live webcast from Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India, and lit the inaugural divo to open the institute.

As part of the opening ceremony 14 children sang verses from the Swaminarayan Siddhant Karika and 40 youths sang Sanskrit verses from the Swaminarayan Siddhant Samamnaya.

On this occasion, Mahamahopadhyay Bhadreshdas Swami was present to give his expert guidance and explanations.

Religious and community leaders, pandits and media personnel were among the 88 representatives from 41 organizations present. Devotees and well-wishers voiced their appreciation for the launch of the research institute. Many organizations presented letters of commendations, recognizing the tremendous contributions of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj.

This research institute is one of several established across the world as part of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s Centenary Celebrations. The BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute will inspire and educate individuals by providing them with the right tools and opportunities to foster personal success, develop awareness and strong communal ties. The research institute will include in-depth teaching of Hindu shastras, Sanskrit, the Akshar–Purushottam Upasana and traditional Hindu practices.