In 2024, BAPS marks a key milestone commemorating half a century in North America. This landmark occasion is a testament to the enduring legacy of the BAPS community and its profound impact on the spiritual and cultural fabric of the continent. Since the inauguration of the first BAPS Mandir in 1974 in Flushing, New York, the organization has grown to encompass 116 Mandirs across North America.
On July 30, 2024, Congressman Thomas Suozzi (NY-3) and Congresswoman Young Kim (CA-40) introduced a bipartisan House Resolution, H.Res.1394, in the 118th Congress recognizing this achievement. The resolution highlights the democratic partnership between the United States and India as “grounded in shared principles of democracy, religious pluralism, human rights, freedom, and the rule of law.” BAPS is committed to these principles and recognizes the importance of fostering these values in its initiatives and collaborations.
To honor this significant milestone, proclamations and commendations have been received from a multitude of distinguished cities and officials across the United States. The following have declared August 4, 2024, as BAPS Day:
- Alabama: Alabama House of Representatives, Alabama Senate, City of Dothan, City of Hoover, City of Montgomery, City of Opelika
- California: California State Assembly, City of Irvine, City of San Jose
- Florida: Hillsborough County, Martin County, City of Tampa, City of North Miami
- Kentucky: State of Kentucky, Governor of Kentucky, Secretary of State, Kentucky House of Representatives
- Indiana: City of Greenwood
- Maryland: State of Maryland, Prince George’s County
- Massachusetts: Massachusetts House of Representatives, City of Lowell, Lowell City Council
- Mississippi: State of Mississippi, City of Jackson, City of Flowood, City of Vicksburg, City of Clinton
- Missouri: City of St. Louis
- New Jersey: Township of Edison
- New York: Town of Colonie
- North Carolina: North Carolina House of Representatives, Wake County, Town of Cary
- Pennsylvania: Hatfield Township
- Tennessee: Tennessee Senate, Tennessee House of Representatives, Town of Collierville, City of Germantown, Town of Arlington, City of Murfreesboro, City of Clarksville, City of Columbia, City of Franklin, City of Memphis, Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County, City of Bartlett
- Texas: Dallas County, City of Austin, City of Carrollton, City of Irving, City of San Antonio, City of Sugar Land, Town of Prosper, City of Round Rock
- Virginia: County of Fairfax
- Washington: City of Bellevue
Other acknowledgments include:
- Alabama: Resolution by Birmingham City Council
- Florida: Commendation by Tampa City Council
- Illinois: Proclamation from Illinois Senate
- Kentucky: City of Bowling Green declaring July 31, 2024 as BAPS Day
- Maryland: Citation by Governor Wes Moore
- Massachusetts: Citation by Massachusetts State Senate
- Minnesota: Certificate of Recognition by Governor Tim Walz and Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan
- Mississippi: Resolution by Governor Tate Reeves
- New Jersey: Congressional Proclamation by Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-1), Proclamation from County of Camden, Proclamation from Township of Cherry Hill, Proclamation from Mayor of Evesham, Proclamation from Township of Gloucester, Proclamation from Township of Voorhees
- New York: Resolutions by New York State Senate and Assembly
- Tennessee: Congratulations Letter from Senator Marsha Blackburn, Proclamation from the City of Brentwood, Proclamation from the City of Hendersonville
- Texas: Recognition by Governor Greg Abbott, Recognition by the City of Frisco
These accolades reflect the broad and deep appreciation for BAPS contributions to the community, celebrating not only the architectural and cultural achievements of the organization but also its role in promoting spiritual growth and community service.
Girish Patel reflects on this milestone, stating, “As a volunteer with BAPS for over 30 years, I’ve witnessed firsthand the incredible impact our community has had across the nation. The resolution introduced in Congress recognizing our 50-year journey in North America is not just an honor for our organization, but a testament to the dedication and hard work of our Gurus —Pramukh Swami Maharaj and Mahant Swami Maharaj — as well as every volunteer and well-wisher. We are grateful for this recognition that reaffirms our commitment to preserving our cultural heritage and serving society.”
The 50th anniversary speaks to the vision and tireless efforts of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj and His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, who have inspired the creation of landmarks of Hindu culture across the world. For more than 50 years, they have traveled throughout North America inspiring the values of selfless service, faith, and harmony. BAPS aims to unite communities around these universal values and foster positive change—a legacy to be carried forward for generations to come.
