August 2009 Annual Subscription Rs. 60 - Swaminarayan Sanstha

witty evening programmes journeyed through
ancient Indian and Hindu history and explored
common misperceptions about the nation and the
religion.
An inter-centre basketball tournament held
for the kishores and a talent-showcasing dance
competition, Sangam, held for the kishoris,
added an exhilarating extra dimension of healthy
competition and enjoyment to the retreat.
The bal-balikas were given the opportunity
to exhibit their satsang knowledge and talents
through various competitions like mukhpath
(memorizing) competition, talent competition,
and sports competition. Spanning two days, the
competitions showcased months of preparation
and practice by the balaks and balikas. They
were rewarded for their efforts with medals and
trophies for the top winners.
THIRD CONGRESS OF LEADERS OF WORLD
AND TRADITIONAL RELIGIONS
1-2 July 2009, Astana, Kazakshtan
World Congress of Religions at the Palace of Peace and Accord
A two-day World Congress of religious leaders
was held in Astana, Kazakshtan, from 1 to 2 July.
The President of Kazakshtan, H.E. N. Nazarbayev,
had invited a BAPS spokesman to address the
Congress on behalf of all Hindus following his
visit to Swaminarayan Akshardham in January
2008. On behalf of BAPS, Dr Janakbhai Dave and
Nirav Patel attended the Congress.
On 1 July President N. Nazarbayev gave
the welcoming speech after the inauguration
ceremony at the Palace of Peace and Accord. The
keynote speech was given by President Shimon
Peres of Israel. Thereafter brief addresses by
leaders of the main world religions followed.
Their speeches focused on building a world of
Dr Janakbhai Dave of BAPS and other delegates
tolerance, mutual respect and cooperation. In the
evening a reception was hosted for all delegates
by the President at the Sultanat Saraiy Palace. Dr
Janakbhai Dave met President Nazarbayev and
extended an invitation to President Shimon Peres
to visit Swaminarayan Akshardham. He also met
the Indian Ambassador to Kazakshtan and had
dialogues with the delegates.
On 2 July Dr Janakbhai spoke during the
session on “Moral and Spiritual Values, World
Ethics ”. Furthermore two more sessions, “Dialogue
Cooperation” and “Solidarity, particularly in the
Period of Crises” were held.
In conclusion the Congress drafted an
international appeal.
August 2009 Swaminarayan Bliss 25