12,723 children participate during Mahant Swami Maharaj’s birthday celebration

By: Vandana Jhingan

The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha marked the birthday of its spiritual leader, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, with a historic achievement on February 2, 2026, as the organization set a Guinness World Record for the largest simultaneous Hindu text recital by children. The grand celebration drew more than 200,000 devotees from across the globe, creating an atmosphere of devotion, culture, and unity.

The record was established when 12,723 children gathered in Vadodara to recite Satsang Diksha, a sacred Sanskrit scripture composed by Mahant Swami Maharaj. Guinness World Records officially recognized the feat as the highest number of children simultaneously reciting Sanskrit verses, and a Certificate of Recognition was presented to Mahant Swami Maharaj during the event.

Inspired by his guidance, a remarkable 15,666 children between the ages of 3 and 13 memorized the entire Satsang Diksha within a year. Of these, 12,723 met the criteria and participated in the live recital that secured the world record.

The Satsang Diksha, comprising 315 Sanskrit shlokas, provides practical guidance on spiritual growth, moral living, social harmony, and disciplined conduct. Participation from hundreds of children from the United States and Canada highlighted BAPS’ global presence and the growing interest among Indian American families in preserving traditional learning.

Officials from Guinness World Records traveled from England to verify the attempt. After a comprehensive review process, they formally declared the recital a world record, applauding the children’s dedication and the collective effort behind the initiative.

Although the event was held in India, its impact resonated strongly within Indian American communities. Many parents described the initiative as a meaningful alternative to screen-heavy educational routines. Unlike modern classrooms often filled with digital distractions, the Sanskrit recital demanded focus, memorization, discipline, and sustained commitment over several months.

Participants shared how the experience shaped their confidence and character. Param Patel of Edison, New Jersey, noted that months of preparation helped him discover his perseverance. “At first I thought it was too hard,” he said. “But once I finished, I felt more confident. It showed me I can stick with something.”

Six-year-old Anadi Tailor from Atlanta explained that memorizing the verses helps guide her daily decisions. “I remember the words when I am at school,” she said. “They help me make good choices.” Vani Patel from Los Angeles described the emotional power of reciting alongside thousands of peers, saying, “It felt powerful to say the words together.”

Sanskrit—one of the world’s oldest recorded languages—is renowned for its precise grammar and profound philosophical heritage. Scholars continue to study its linguistic structure, while many families value its role in character-building and classical education. Organizers carefully selected participants based on accuracy, commitment, and sincerity to maintain the recital’s quality and authenticity.

Educators and psychologists have long emphasized the importance of structured, goal-oriented activities for childhood development. According to organizers, the mass recital was designed not only to achieve a record but also to nurture focus, memory, perseverance, and teamwork—skills essential for lifelong success.

Beyond the record-setting moment, the celebration featured elaborate cultural performances, immersive video presentations, and inspiring addresses. Mahant Swami Maharaj also inaugurated a Mobile School initiative for tribal regions under the theme “Har Ghar Shiksha Ki Jyot Jale,” underscoring BAPS’ commitment to education and social upliftment.

Addressing the gathering, Mahant Swami Maharaj reflected on the legacy of the BAPS gurus and credited the children for the honor. “The recognition received from Guinness World Records today is the result of the children’s sincere and tireless efforts, and it is dedicated to all the gurus,” he said. “The sadhus, volunteers, and parents have worked with great devotion—this recognition belongs to them.”

The celebration was attended by Gujarat Chief Minister Shri Bhupendrabhai Patel and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shri Mohan Yadav as special guests. A message of greetings from Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah was also read on the occasion.

The record-setting recital highlighted unity, discipline, and values-based learning among young participants while reflecting the strength of BAPS children’s programs under Mahant Swami Maharaj’s guidance. Above all, the achievement demonstrated a collective commitment to passing Hindu values and cultural heritage to the next generation.