A gathering of over 12,000 devotees and dignitaries marked a momentous occasion as the Prime Minister, along with esteemed ministers, joined the BAPS community in celebrating the inauguration of the Shri Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir and Cultural Precinct in Sydney.
Among the dignitaries present were Minister for Education Hon. Jason Clare, Minister for Communications Hon. Michelle Rowland, Minister for Climate Change Hon. Chris Bowen, and Member for Werriwa Anne Stanley. Their participation underscored the importance of this grand event, which highlighted the values of faith, unity, and cultural harmony.
Prime Minister’s Address: A Tribute to Faith and Community
In his speech, the Prime Minister began with the warm greeting of “Jai Swaminarayan!” and expressed his joy at being part of such a significant occasion. He acknowledged the unwavering dedication of the Hindu community in Australia, which has enriched the nation with its values and traditions.
The Prime Minister paid tribute to His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, who continues to inspire countless devotees with his teachings. He particularly highlighted His Holiness’s profound message: “In the joy of others lies our own.” This philosophy, deeply rooted in the BAPS tradition, reflects the spirit of selfless service and collective well-being.
He further acknowledged the significance of Sydney hosting this festival outside India for only the second time in over 115 years of BAPS history. His words carried a message of inclusivity and respect for the spiritual contributions of the Hindu community to Australia’s multicultural fabric.
The Kemps Creek Mandir: A Monument of Faith and Belonging
Speaking about the newly inaugurated Shri Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir and Cultural Precinct, the Prime Minister lauded it as a magnificent addition to Australia’s cultural and spiritual landscape. He recalled how His Holiness first blessed and chose the site a decade ago, and upon seeing the completed mandir, simply remarked, “I am home.”
The Prime Minister emphasized that this mandir is not merely a place of worship but a sanctuary of peace, belonging, and unity for people of all backgrounds. Once completed, it will stand as the largest Hindu Mandir precinct in Australia, a beacon of spiritual growth and cultural preservation.
A Historic Commitment: Australia’s First Hindu School
In a landmark announcement, the Prime Minister revealed that his government would support the establishment of Australia’s first Hindu school in Western Sydney. Recognizing the immense contributions of the Hindu community to Australia’s progress, he affirmed that it was only right for the vision of a Hindu school to become a reality.
His Holiness’s Reflection on the Prime Minister’s Visit
Following the Prime Minister’s departure, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj spoke fondly of his presence, appreciating his attendance and commitment to the community. Later in the evening, His Holiness inquired whether the Prime Minister had reached his next engagement on time and if he had been well taken care of, demonstrating his genuine care and hospitality.
A Legacy of Unity and Strength
The Prime Minister reflected on his deep connection with India, reminiscing about his first visit as a backpacker in 1991 and his more recent experiences in Delhi, including a visit to Swaminarayan Akshardham. He drew parallels between Akshardham’s timeless grandeur and the newly inaugurated mandir, expressing confidence that the Kemps Creek Mandir would be the “Akshardham of Australia.”
In closing, he reaffirmed the immense contributions of the Hindu community to Australia, acknowledging their energy, ingenuity, and aspirations. His words carried a heartfelt message of gratitude and unity: “Australia is a better country because of you.”
As the event concluded, the spirit of devotion and harmony resonated deeply among the attendees. The inauguration of the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir and Cultural Precinct stands as a testament to faith, cultural enrichment, and the enduring bond between Australia and its Hindu community.
