Canadian PM Mark Carney visits BAPS Swaminarayan temple in Toronto

IANS April 8, 2025 190 views

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney made a significant visit to the BAPS Swaminarayan temple in Toronto during Ram Navami celebrations. He was warmly welcomed by temple swamis and participated in traditional Hindu rituals, including the sacred abhishek ceremony. Carney was presented with a special multilingual scripture and a personal blessing letter from Mahant Swami Maharaj. His visit underscored Canada's commitment to cultural diversity and interfaith understanding, highlighting the importance of community and spiritual connections.

"With the deepest appreciation for your prayers and hospitality..." - Mark Carney, Canadian PM
Toronto, April 8: Canada Prime Minister Mark Carney visited the iconic BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in the city, on the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami and Swaminarayan Jayanti, celebrating the birth anniversaries of Lord Shri Ram and Bhagwan Shri Swaminarayan.

Key Points

1

Canadian PM participated in traditional Hindu temple rituals

2

Received special multilingual scripture edition

3

Praised temple's community contributions

4

Emphasized national unity and cultural harmony

As Canadian PM arrived at the BAPS temple, he was welcomed with traditional Hindu rituals, including the tying of a nada-chhadi (sacred thread) and a garland by senior BAPS swamis. He then participated in the sacred abhishek ritual of Nilkanth Varni Maharaj, offering prayers for peace and well-being across Canada and the world.

During his Mandir tour, Canadian Prime Minister admired the temple's intricate stone carvings and spiritual grandeur, and participated in the arti ceremony, offering flowers and fruits at the central shrine.

A highlight of the visit was the presentation of a special multilingual edition of the 'Satsang Diksha' scripture, authored by His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj.

A personal letter of blessings from Mahant Swami Maharaj, sent from India, was also read aloud in his presence. In the heartfelt message, Mahant Swami Maharaj prayed for the Canada PM's leadership, and also for the prosperity of Canada and all its people.

Deeply moved, the Prime Minister penned in the guest book and wrote, "With the deepest appreciation for your prayers and hospitality, and with all my conviction to work without fail to promote peace, unity, harmony, and prosperity for Canada, India, and all nations."

Mark Carney acknowledged the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir's ongoing contributions to Canadian society, including its role in promoting community service, interfaith harmony, cultural preservation, and youth development. He expressed admiration for how the Mandir continues to be a symbol of peace, volunteerism, and national unity.

Before leaving, Canada PM Carney also engaged warmly with community members and Hindu leaders, reinforcing his commitment to diversity, inclusion, and cultural harmony.

Reader Comments

P
Priya K.
What a beautiful moment of cultural exchange! 🙏 It's heartwarming to see our leaders embracing diverse traditions. The BAPS temple is truly an architectural marvel and spiritual haven in Toronto.
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Rajiv T.
While I appreciate the PM's visit, I hope this isn't just symbolic. We need concrete policies that protect all religious communities equally. That said, the temple's message of unity is something we could all learn from.
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Sarah L.
As someone who visited the BAPS temple last summer, I can attest to its breathtaking beauty and peaceful atmosphere. It's wonderful to see our leaders experiencing different cultural spaces firsthand.
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Amit P.
Jai Swaminarayan! 🙏 This visit means so much to our community. The BAPS organization does incredible work worldwide - from disaster relief to education initiatives. Glad the PM recognized their contributions.
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Michael B.
Never been to this temple but after reading this, I think I'll visit this weekend. Love learning about different cultures and traditions. Canada's diversity is truly our strength!

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