Pramukh Swami built global faith on Vedic values: Clinton

From Lalit K Jha Washington, Aug 20 (PTI) Pramukh Swami, the spiritualhead of the Swaminarayan sect who passed away last week, builta global faith and community founded on Vedic values,Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton has said. "Pramukh Swami didn’t just teach virtues – he lived themevery day. ThatÂ’s what made him a Guru to millions of devoteesaround the world. From the Akshardham Mandir in New Jersey tothe countless temples that he blessed in the US, Pramukh Swamibuilt a global faith and community founded on Vedic values,"Clinton said in a statement yesterday. Ending her condolence message with ‘Jai Swaminarayan’,Clinton said her husband Bill Clinton was fortunate enough tovisit the spiritual leader both here in the United States andat the Akshardham Mandir in Gujarat. "In meeting many of hisfollowers, I’ve been touched by his wisdom as well," she said. Noting that Pramukh SwamiÂ’s deep sense of devotion ledhim to spend his life revitalizing communities in need,Clinton said his worship of karma inspired him to promotepeace and justice in India, America, and all around the world. "His example helped his followers find more harmony –both with others, and within themselves. And we hope thathumanity will build upon his legacy for generations to come,"Clinton said as top American leaders continued to send theircondolence message on death of the Indian spiritual leader. A US flag honoring the life of Bochasanvasi AksharPurushottam Sansthan (BAPS) leader was flown on the US Capitolon Wednesday, said Stephen T Ayers, Architect of the Capitol. Utah Governor Gary R Herbert said the BAPS leader will beremembered for his selfless nature and humanitarian deeds. Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner said Pramukh Swami’sunwavering commitment to his faith has undoubtedly served asan inspiration in the Land of Lincoln. Senator Mark Kirk said the life of Pramukh Swami will becelebrated with the upmost reverence and respect. "The lives he touched are numerous, and his contributionsto culture and humankind will not be forgotten," he said. The world lost a powerful force for good, said SenatorOrrin Hatch. "Pramukh Swami Maharaj leaves a legacy that we can allaspire to and a thriving BAPS community that will not be thesame without him. His selfless services to society, impeccablecommitment to the community, and profound devotion to faithearned him the respect and reverence of countless worldwide,"said Senator Cory Booker from New Jersey. "His passing is not only a tremendous loss for theSwaminarayan community, but also for many lives he touchedthroughout the world," said Congressman Steny Hoyer. "While the world recently lost a truly great individual,there is no question in my mind that the positive imprint heleft on the world continues to live and will continue to befelt for many years into the future," said Congressman RobWoodall, who had requested for flying a US flat at the CapitolHill in honor of the BAPS leader. "Pramukh Swamiji will forever be remembered for hisdedication to service, his compassion, his leadership, and hiscommitment to building a better world for future generations,"said Congressman Joe Crowley. PTI LKJZH