13. Developmental Activities of 'Satsang'

Satsang is wedded to the cause of moral and spiritual development of mankind. Although, Muktaraj, forever remained absorbed in God of cosmic force, he did not ignore the reality of human life. He lavishly bestowed the spiritual wealth through a number of 'omni-beneficial', developmental activities.

Muni Swami had expressed his desire to develop the 'Chhatri' - monument at the resting place of Anadimukta Bapashri. To honour the wishes of the saint, Muktaraj approached Anadimukta Pujya Jadavjibapa and other devotees from Kutch and Gujarat and developed the place into a more beautiful monument on the hallowed spot. This was followed by the founding of institutions such as Gurukuls, Hostels, Schools and organisation of exhibitions of paintings depicting the life and works of Pujya Bapashri. Before the inception of the 'Mission' Muktaraj had got many books like 'Vachanamrutam', 'Bapashri-ni-Vato' and 'Sadguru Vrundavandasji Swamini Vato' published through 'Anadimukta Abjibapashri Smarak Trust', Gujarat. Thus he fulfilled Muni Swami's desire to start publication activity. He got a separate temple exclusive for women constructed at Saraspur and the temple for male devotees was expanded and further developed. Under his supervision and guidance many new temples were built all over Gujarat. The newly constructed 'Shri Brahmanand Bhojnalaya' in a way can be described as Muktaraj's 'gift' to the Muli temple. He was responsible for the renovation of many battered old temples.

Impressed by the scholarship spiritual powers of Muktaraj Acharyashree and members of the 'Vidvan Santmandal' decided to ask him to write an article establishing the supremacy of Lord Shri Swaminarayan. Muktaraj responded to their request and wrote an article for the magazine, 'Bhagvan Swaminarayan' and established the norms and standards of 'Upasana Shuddhi'. When it was decided to construct a Swaminarayan Temple at Naranpura, Dharma Dhurandhar Param Pujya Acharyashri had asked Muktaraj to lay the foundation-stone for the temple. While performing the rites, Muktaraj had blessed the congregation and prayed to Maharaj to bestow special powers upon the temple so that the devotees might receive his choicest blessings and the fellowship prosper. The proof is not far to seek. We can see the results with our eyes. The foundation stone of the Gurukul at Chharodi was jointly laid by Muktaraj and Pujya Jogiswami. It is about to be completed. His creative spirit was not limited to the construction of temples and publication of books only. He was deeply committed to the inner development of man also. Swaminarayan Gurukul, Ahmedabad had often organised lectures of Muktaraj for the young college students. Our Divine Master delivered lectures on 'Upasana-Shuddhi' and inspired the youth to remain steadfast on the path which led to true knowledge and ultimately to God. 'Shri Swaminarayan Divine Mission' is a living monument, an embodiment of all that Muktaraj loved and stood for. You have to just walk into it to experience the divine bliss and realize your spiritual goals. Look within, your God is smiling.