The fifth spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan and spiritual leader of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha has departed his mortal body on Saturday, August 13, 2016 at the age of 95. His final rites were performed on Wednesday in the village of Sarangpur in Gujarat, India on August 17, 2016.

A pious and selfless person, Pramukh Swami Maharaj had dedicated his entire life towards the service and personal development of others, establishing Hindu temples to preserve spirituality for current and future generations, as well as developing and overseeing schools, hospitals and disaster relief services to provide infrastructure and support across communities of all sizes.

Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Former U.S. President Bill Clinton conveyed their sincerest condolences on the passing of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj. Secretary Clinton wrote, “Pramukh Swami’s deep sense of devotion led him to spend his life revitalizing communities in need. His example helped his followers find more harmony – both with others and within themselves. And we hope that humanity will build upon his legacy for generations to come.”

Secretary Clinton fondly recalled that then President Bill Clinton was “fortunate enough to visit with his Holiness, both here in the United States and at the Akshardham Mandir in Gujarat.”  Former President Clinton first met Pramukh Swami Maharaj on October 4, 2000, beginning a unique friendship with the late Guru of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha.

Secretary Clinton’s thoughts echoed the sentiments from heads of states in all parts of the world, including British Prime Minister Teresa May, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and HRH Prince of Wales. “His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj exemplified the values of British Hindus whose contribution helps make the United Kingdom one of the world’s most successful multi-cultural, multi-faith democracies,” stated Teresa May.  Speaking of his life of service she added: “This legacy of selfless service will continue to benefit humanity for a long time to come.”

By Premji