Since 2013 the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanskrit Mahavidyalay has been in affiliation with Shree Somnath Sanskrit University. Over the last year, it has been conducting online courses in Diploma Shrimad Bhagavat Gītā and its Sanskrit Commentaries and Sanskrit Teaching.
As the first iteration of the course concluded, a student seminar was organized at the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, Sarangpur. Held from 26th to 28th November 2021, over 250 students and their family members from various countries attended.
The inaugural session commenced with a traditional maṅgalācaraṇa and recitation of verses from the Gītā. Atmatruptdas Swami opened the session by discussing the “Propagation of Akṣara-Puruṣottama Darśana by Bhagavān Svāminārāyaṇa and the Guṇātīta Guru Paramaparā.” Mahāmahopādhyāya Bhadreshdas Swami then spoke on the “Path of Worship through the Study of Scriptures.” Senior Sadhu Ishwarcharandas Swami then addressed the assembly through a video call. In the evening session, students shared experiences they had in taking the course.
The second day started with students participating in a Guru Pujan ritual at the Guruhari Pujan Mandapam. The morning session consisted of a discussion between students and Atmatruptdas Swami. This session provided students the unique opportunity to discuss pressing questions with a learned and experienced scholar.
Anchored by Harikrishna Pedhadia, the second session titled, “What Next?” gave students insight into how completing the course provided them with new opportunities. Students were informed about potential job prospects and further study options. This was followed by an appreciation ceremony in which senior sadhus honored students who excelled in the course.
After the second session, students visited the newly built BAPS Swaminarayan Sanskrit Mahavidyalay. Before taking leave, students were asked to write about their experience of not only the seminar but also the online course. Engaging sessions and the opportunity to participate in reflective dialogue ensured all attendees left inspired.
