The creator of Akshardham Delhi and Gandhinagar is BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha. ( 1907-2007). This global socio-spiritual organisation under the leadership of HH Pramukh Swami Maharaj is celebrating its 100 years of its service to humanity through local and international projects covering diverse fields such as medicare, education, environment, tribal development, disaster relief & social uplift.
On 7 May 2007, under the auspices of Swaminarayan Akshardham, a unique Bhakti Yatra with 1500 participants, 6 colorful floats, horses, patriotic chanters, 4 dance groups and 150 ladies with Kalash, was brought out at 10.00 am from Geetanjali Apartments, at Sharad Vihar, Karkardooma, East Delhi.
Shri Tejendra Khanna, the Lt. Governor of Delhi flagged off the Bhakti Yatra. He led the Yatra until the dais and then took his seat along with Sadhu Atmaswarupdas (Head, Akshardham). The entire Yatra walked past the dais. The children performed a peacock dance, a dandia raas, and a traditional Garba.
Shri Tejendra Khanna also inaugurated the 2007 de-addiction campaign by the Childrens Wing of BAPS in Delhi . There was a special float displaying artistic posters that will be shown at over 80 locations in Delhi where children, aged 12-14, will educate the public on the harms of chronic smoking and drinking
Participants chanted the Swaminarayan mantra in a prayer for world peace and the prosperity for all of Delhi and its citizens. Thousands of spectators, as well as, the students of 4 local schools on route joined the festivities uniting young and old alike in a celebration of Indian culture, values, and wisdom.
Local residents generously offered all the participants with water and juices along the 4.1 Km route. Keeping with Akshardham values, BAPS volunteers not only participated, but took upon the responsibility of collecting any litter left by the yatra.
Bhakti Yatra terminated at Arwachin Bharti School in Vivek Vihar, East Delhi.
BAPS is an NGO is in Consultative Status with Economic and Social Council of United Nations.
