New stadium to be named after late Pramukh Swami Maharaj

SURAT: The proposed stadium being constructed with Rs 100 crore financial aid of state government at Palanpur here will be named after late Pramukh Swami Maharaj of the Swaminarayn sect.
This was announced on Wednesday by chief minister Vijay Rupani during the culmination of 11-day celebration of late Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s 96th birth anniversary held at Swaminarayan Nagar here. Rupani also unveiled two postal stamps on Pramukh Swami and said, “Gujarat is known as Gandhi’s Gujarat and so on but it will also be known as Pramukh Swami’s Gujarat.”
BJP national president, Amit Shah, who was also present on the occasion said, “Pramukh Swami’s personality was multi-faceted and he celebrated everyday of his life as his birthday.He had special love for Gujarat and carried out one of the biggest campaign to create addiction free society in our state.”
The celebration of Pramukh Swami’s 96th birth anniversary began on November 27 at the venue spread over 400 acres. The celebration became the cynosure of all eyes because of the extraordinary exhibitions and cultural programmes. The giant cultural township was creation of 18,000 men and women volunteers who offered their services in 37 departments. The festival hosted 15 lakh visitors including 60,000 students and 2,000 teachers from 125 schools over the last 10 days.
The township comprises of a giant entrance gate, a grand temple and eight exhibition halls. Every evening a spectacular light and sound show revealed social and spiritual significance in modern world.
The celebration theme was Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s grand and divine social and spiritual work. The entire programme portrayed Swamiji’s exhaustive travels for the upliftment of mankind, creation of temples like Swaminarayan Akshardham and disaster-relief programmes by BAPS through skits, video shows, cultural dances and speeches.
Mahant Swami Maharaj, Pramuk Swami’s successor, blessed the congregation, saying, “Pramukh Swami Maharaj lived a universal life. He worked for the all-round betterment of all, regardless of any distinctions. His humility was unparalleled and he respected all and cared for people of all classes and denominations. He emphasized upon unity and family cohesion for a progressive and happy society.”