16/05/2023
His Highness Param Pujya Yogiji Maharaj
23rd May 1892 (Dhari Dist Amreli Gujarat)
to 23rd January 1971 (Mumbai)
Jinabhai was the Childhood name of His highness Yogiji Maharaj. Since Childhood, He had natural inclination towards religious activities with courage and truth.Since his teen age, He offered his service to Junagadh Swaminarayan Temple and in 1911 was ordained as Sadhu Gyanjivandasji.
With his love spreading hard working nature service without expectation he gained the nickname of Yogiji Maharaj. Yogi means someone who lives a detached life, just like lotus stay in water.
His Highness Shastriji Maharaj wanted to build Axar Purushottam Temples, which was against the then established system and therefore Shastriji Maharaj seperated out and founded new religious organisation - BAPS. P.P. Yogiji Maharaj stood firmly with P.P. Shastriji Maharaj.
There are many incidents where Yogiji Maharaj has demonstrated deep faith and love to H.H. Shastriji Maharaj and Swaminarayn Bhagvan. On many occasions he show his unique conviction in the power of "Swaminarayan Mahamantra"
Shastriji Maharaj appointed him as his spiritual head at BAPS in 1951. Till then he served as the mahant of Gondal Swaminarayan Temple.
His selfless and unconditional love captured the hearts of youths. He was a visionary, inspirer, and initiator of the organisation’s weekly children and youth activities. His positive attitude and engaging smile captured the hearts of thousands of people.
Yogiji Maharaj emphasised the importance of regular satsang for every age group. He initiated weekly Sunday sabha and He also began the bal, kishore, and yuvak mandals that offered special assemblies for youths.
He carried the philosophy of Akshar Purushottam out of India and built temples in Africa and London. He inspired many talented youth who studied Engineering, Medicine, Law to become Sadhus.
Many young disciples of His highness Yogiji Maharaj established their own organisation to spread religious activities and serve the society. Notable among them are (1) "GUNATIT JYOT" established by P.P. KAKAJI and Pappaji. (2) Yogi Divine Society, Atmiya, Haridham, Sokhda established by P.P. Hariprasad Maharaj.
Chinmayananda Swami of the Chinmaya Mission used to say, “His face carried the anand, or the divine joy, expressed in the Upanishads.”
Many Many Bows and salute to Brahm Swaroop P.P. His Highness Yogiji Maharaj on his birthday
Jay Swaminarayn to all devotees
Dilip C. Javiya, Nadiad
16 th May 2023 Vaishakh Vad baras.