New Delhi, Aug 13: Spiritual icon Pramukh Swami Maharaj passed away in Gujarat’s Sarangpur district on Saturday. The news of Swami Maharaj’s demise was confirmed by his organization Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Sanstha (BAPS). Maharaj breathed his last at BAPS ashram in Sarangpur, passing away at the age of 95. His death has left a huge void in the Hindu preachers’ fraternity. He was considered to be one the greatest Vedic intellectual of his era. While paying tributes, Prime Minister Narendra Modi recalled Maharaj as a personal mentor.
Modi shared a personal bond with the spiritual guru. During his days as the Gujarat Chief Minister, Modi was known for sharing proximity with him. On several occasions he visited the BAPS ashram to take blessings from Maharaj. On his demise today, Modi was the first to react on social media. Pramukh Swami Maharaj was a mentor to me. I will never forget my interactions with him. We will miss his presence,” Modi said, further adding, “Pramukh Swami Maharaj was a stalwart among humans who embodied compassion and humility. His service to society will always be remembered.” (ALSO READ: Pramukh Swami Maharaj dead: Head of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha passes away in Gujarat)
HH Pramukh Swami Maharaj, a stalwart among humans who embodied compassion & humility. His service to society will always be remembered.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 13, 2016
HH Pramukh Swami Maharaj was a mentor to me. I will never forget my interactions with him. Will miss his presence. pic.twitter.com/p4lsx65zjY — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 13, 2016
Maharaj’s demise has sent a wave of shock among his lakhs of followers across Gujarat and India. His organization BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha was the one who had constructed the Akshardham temple in Gandhinagar and New Delhi, which is visited by thousands of devotees at all times of the year.
The reason for his death, as of now, is stated to be chest infection. He was suffering from it since the past few weeks. His condition marginally improved on Friday, which prompted BAPS spokesperson to announce that he would be available for darshan on alternative days. However, few were aware that he would succumb to the health issue in the next 24 hours.