ADVERTISEMENT
New York State resolutions commemorate 50th anniversary of first BAPS temple in North America
The resolutions recognize the temple’s efforts in contributing to the well-being of their congregants and local communities in New York
BAPS delegation at the New York State Senate chamber / Courtesy Photo
Resolutions commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Flushing BAPS Shri Swaminarayan mandir, the first BAPS temple in North America, were passed both in the New York State Senate and Assembly.
Resolutions J2225 and K2400 were passed by State Senator John Liu and Assembly Member Nily Rozic, respectively, in recognition of the event scheduled for August 4. BAPS members from all over the state were in attendance at the State Capitol to receive the resolution and to deliver the invocation in the Senate and Assembly chambers.
A global Hindu denomination, Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) is committed to the cultivation of faith, the encouragement of service, and the promotion of a more fulfilling life. In 1974, the Pramukh Swami Maharaj constructed the first BAPS mandir in North America on Bowne Street in Flushing. Since then, six traditional stone Hindu mandirs and 108 hari mandirs have been built in the United States and Canada.
 500-128 005.jpg)
 500-128 019.jpg)
State Senator John Liu stated, “This year marks the 50th anniversary of the BAPS mandir in Flushing, a historic milestone for the mandir and our community. The BAPS mandir has been a cornerstone of the Hindu community, serving the spiritual, social and community needs of so many, and we are proud to commemorate their tremendous commitments to serving the needs of others.”
State Assembly Member Nily Rozic stated, “It's an honor to recognize the BAPS Mandir on their 50th anniversary. For 50 years, the Mandir has been a central center for worship, cultural heritage, and community service. Its contributions to the lives of its members and the community have been profound and far-reaching. I am grateful to celebrate their dedication to promoting unity, service, and spirituality with my fellow leaders in government.”
BAPS delegation at the New York State Assembly chamber / Courtesy Photo
Dr. Vipul Patel, BAPS Outreach and Public Affairs, stated, “BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is an integral part of the social and cultural fabric of Flushing and we are proud to celebrate our 50th anniversary. BAPS is a well-established community institution and serves as a spiritual and cultural hub for thousands of Queens residents, all while remaining consistent with its founding mission of outreach and service.”
Shyam Patel, BAPS priest and temple coordinator, stated, “We are excited to celebrate our 50th anniversary and honored to accept these New York State Senate and Assembly resolutions. BAPS Swaminarayan mandirs teach the arts, language, music and philosophy that are the roots of Hindu heritage. BAPS mandirs host various charitable efforts for local communities throughout the year such as walkathons, health fairs, blood drives, and more.”
Priest Shyam Patel performed the invocation in the legislative chambers in the presence of Approva Khatri from the BAPS Melville Temple, Praduman Kansara, outreach admin, Hardi Patel, outreach admin, BAPS, Vidhi Patel, and Anuj Patel from BAPS Albany Temple.
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
E Paper
Video
.jpg)
Comments
Start the conversation
Become a member of New India Abroad to start commenting.
Sign Up Now
Already have an account? Login