Gurudev Bapji
Gurudev Bapji
Succeeded byHDH Swamishri
Personal
Born
Devubhai

(1933-03-13)13 March 1933
Died22 August 2019(2019-08-22) (aged 86)
ReligionHinduism
DenominationSwaminarayan Sampradaya, SMVS
Monastic nameDevnandandasji swami
Organization
Founder ofSwaminarayan Mandir Vasna Sanstha
Religious career
GuruShri Keshavpriyadasji swami
HonorsVachanamrut Acharya
Role(s)Spiritual head and Founder of SMVS (1987–2019)

Anadimukta Sadguru Shri Devnandandasji Swami (HDH Bapji)

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Anadimukta Sadguru Shri Devnandandasji Swami, commonly known as HDH Bapji, is a prominent spiritual leader in the Swaminarayan sect. He was born as Devubhai on 13 March 1933 in Vasan, Ahmedabad district, Gujarat, India.

Early Life and Manifestation

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HDH Bapji was born to Jethabhai Thakkar and Dholiba. From a young age, he displayed a profound spiritual inclination. He once expressed his life's mission by saying, "I haven't come here to sell your oil, jaggery, and ghee but, I have come here to grant the bliss of Murti to infinite souls. That is my only business."

Asceticism and Spiritual Journey

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In 1952, Devubhai met Anadimukta Satpurush Keshavpriyadasji Swami (Muni Swami), a prominent spiritual figure in the Swaminarayan tradition. This encounter significantly influenced his spiritual path. In 1956, at the age of 23, he embraced asceticism and was given the name Sadhu Devnandandasji.

HDH Bapji dedicated his life to disseminating the teachings of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. He is known for his principled life, exemplary asceticism, humility, transparency, and strong faith that Shriji Maharaj is the sole doer of all actions.

Contributions and Influence

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HDH Bapji has significantly impacted the lives of many, especially in the Panchmahal region, where he addressed issues such as addiction, superstition, and crime. Under his leadership, the SMVS organization has launched various initiatives, including educational services, medical services, disaster relief, and social projects like ‘Read Gujarat’ and ‘Clean India’. He also established ‘SMVS Charities’ to further social activities.

HDH Bapji's influence extends globally, and his teachings have reached numerous followers, sants, and leaders. He attributes the success of his work to Bhagwan Swaminarayan, whom he considers the ultimate performer of all actions.

Legacy

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HH Satyasankalpdasji Swamishri, under HDH Bapji's guidance, oversees all Satsang activities, ensuring that the organization's message is widely disseminated. HDH Bapji's legacy continues to inspire and transform lives, promoting the principles of Bhagwan Swaminarayan worldwide.



References

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