baps better living by BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha

In this episode BAPS Better Living: Inspired, we sit down with Dr. Hemali Patel - neurologist, educator, mother, and children’s book author - whose journey is rooted in resilience, representation, and spiritual grounding. 

What does it mean to live your values with confidence in a constantly changing world? 

In this episode, we sit down with Roma Patel, Digital Risk & AI Lawyer, to explore how humility and self-awareness can help shape authentic leadership. Roma shares how humility isn’t about shrinking yourself - it’s about staying centered, clear, and aligned with your values, especially in competitive spaces like corporate law. 

In this episode of Dharmic Life by BAPS Better Living, we explore a question many people quietly wrestle with: What do you do when you have achieved all the material success you had aimed for, yet still feel unfulfilled? 

In this episode of Inspired on the BAPS Better Living, Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt sits down with Darshan Patel - public servant, entrepreneur, and lifelong learner - for a thoughtful conversation on purpose, service, and intentional living. Darshan reflects how faith, family, and a commitment to serving others have shaped his journey through government leadership and entrepreneurship, helping him stay grounded and focused in a rapidly changing world. 

In this thoughtful episode of The Dharmic Life Podcast, Palak and Akshara unpack a timely theme: our environment - what we eat, what we watch, and whom we spend time with - silently shapes who we become. Starting with a relatable story about kids and morning routines, they discuss the power of mindful consumption: how swapping junk for wholesome food (and curated, uplifting media) helps steady our energy and focus. 

In this episode of the Dharmic Life series by BAPS Better Living, co-host Dhawal sits down with Dr. Deven Patel to explore the transformative power of second chances - how forgiveness, gratitude, and spiritual wisdom can help us heal, grow, and rebuild trust in ourselves and others. 

In this episode of Inspired on the BAPS Better Living Podcast, we sit down with Ria Soni - physician, social entrepreneur, and advocate for women’s health - to explore what it truly means to live a life of service in medicine and beyond. 

In this episode of Windows Into Wisdom, Pujya Chaitanyamurtidas Swami explores a powerful shift in perspective - from striving for “balance” to embracing mastery of life’s deeper rhythms. 

In this episode of Windows into Wisdom, Pujya Yogananddas Swami explores the essence of Karma Yoga - the art of living a life free from stress and frustration. 

In this episode of Windows into Wisdom, Pujya Gnanvatsaldas Swami invites us to look within and rediscover the power of purposeful living.

In this episode of the Inspired Series on the BAPS Better Living Podcast, we sit down with Biren Gandhi - entrepreneur, author, and technologist - to explore how timeless traditions can serve as modern technologies for resilience and balance. 

In this episode of the Inspired Series on the BAPS Better Living Podcast, we sit down with Rina Jariwala, Chief Operating Officer of Fundbox, to explore what it means to lead with grit and purpose. With over 25 years of corporate experience, Rina shares how resilience, unity, and compassion have guided her leadership journey and continue to shape the way she empowers others.

Technology may add speed to your life, but values add direction.” In this inspiring talk, Pujya Brahmaviharidas Swami shares how to lead a purposeful, value-driven life in today’s fast-paced tech world. Blending spiritual wisdom with real-world relevance, he explains how virtues like humility, gratitude, and mindfulness can elevate not just your work, but your entire way of living, turning success into significance.

In this episode of the Dharmic Life series on the BAPS Better Living Podcast, co-hosts Dhawal and Yogesh dive into the complex topic of anxiety—how it manifests in our everyday lives and how we can navigate it through a spiritual lens. 

In the inaugural episode of the 'Dharmic Life' series on the BAPS Better Living Podcast, hosts Dhawal and Kashyap explore how to find greater happiness, joy, and peace by elevating everyday moments and mundane interactions. They reflect on the true meaning behind common small talk and discuss its potential to create deep, meaningful connections. 

Two wolves live within us all—one driven by joy and values, the other by fear and desire. In this episode, we explore the three paradoxes of life—happiness, achievement, and relationships—and how embracing a value-based life can resolve them. Backed by timeless wisdom and modern research, this episode will help you reflect, realign, and rediscover the wolf you want to feed. 

What if leadership could become a spiritual practice — one that brings fulfillment to your work and uplifts the people around you? We often think power is what makes us effective leaders — whether as managers, parents, or mentors. But there’s another way: a path rooted not in control but in service. Spiritual service. By learning to truly see others, we begin to transform not only how we lead but who we become in the process. In this episode, we reflect on how Pramukh Swami Maharaj and Mahant Swami Maharaj lead with compassion, humility, and love — touching hearts and transforming lives. Discover a simple practice you can start using today to lead in this same spirit.

Discover the transformative journey of healing deep trust wounds in this episode of BAPS Better Living. Mahima Dave shares her personal experience of overcoming betrayal and insecurity by fostering a deep connection with God and her Guru, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj. Learn how spirituality can be a powerful tool for letting go of the past, staying positive in the present, and embracing a hopeful future. This episode offers practical strategies to infuse your life with peace and resilience, helping you become the best version of yourself.

Explore how to make sense of life's unexpected turns. From personal anecdotes to the wisdom of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, we delve into the power of embracing uncertainty, letting go, and finding peace in the belief that everything happens for a reason. Tune in to discover how to navigate disappointments, celebrate all of life's moments, and trust in a higher plan. 

 Discover timeless wisdom and find inner peace with this latest podcast episode. Join us as we uncover practical insights from ancient scriptures that inspire modern living and everlasting peace. Journey back to ancient northwest India, where Arjun faces a profound moral dilemma on the battlefield, guided by Krishna Bhagwan. Explore how their conversation illuminates the power of values and moral responsibility in navigating life's complexities.

Dive into the soulful journey of devotion, dance, and self-discovery! Join on one individuals journey unraveling the profound impact of mandirs on their life's pivotal moments. From the vibrant rhythms of traditional Indian dances to the tranquil embrace of sacred spaces, explore how these experiences shape her spiritual growth.

Explore the profound impact of daily spiritual practices in family life and personal growth as we delve into the power of Hindu traditions like the aarti, thal, and gharsabha, and how they shape resilience, faith, and success. Discover how nurturing 'internal spiritual circuitry' can be the guiding force that empowers us through life's challenges and triumphs.

Join us on a journey of empowerment and balance as we explore the concept of 'It Takes a Village to Sustain a Woman.' In this heartfelt conversation, we learn valuable lessons from personal experiences, highlighting the importance of finding your village, embracing the strength in asking for help, and leaning on your inspiration. Discover how one woman's journey becomes a powerful link connecting family, tradition, and values. Tune in for insights that resonate with every woman navigating life's challenges and triumphs.

Discover how language is more than just words; it's a bridge to understanding, empathy, and unlocking the best version of oneself.

Dive into Timelessness: Exploring Hinduism's Enduring Spirit through Art and Devotion. Join us as we journey from ancient Ellora caves to modern mandirs, discovering how art, tradition, and faith unite across generations. Feel the serenity and connection that make Hinduism truly timeless.

Journey through the captivating stories of a Hindu mandir, where worship takes on unique and heartfelt forms. Explore the essence of Bhakti - the profound love for God expressed in diverse ways by individuals of all ages. Experience the power of a sacred space where emotions are embraced, and souls are elevated. Tune in and ignite your own implicit forms of worship, finding peace, joy, and fulfillment in the presence of the divine.

Feeling panicked when life throws you a curveball? Just like a spare tire comes to your rescue when you get a flat tire, God is always there for you. But why do we only remember the divine only when we're desperate? Find out why it's essential to prioritize God and experience balance, peace of mind, and courage in your life.

Break free from the noise and distractions. Experience true connection through high connectivity. Listen with your heart and mind, and unlock the power of genuine engagement. Join us on a journey of self-discovery and meaningful relationships. Embrace high connectivity and make a difference. Listen, connect, and thrive!

Discover the profound lessons learned from life's encounters with death. Explore the transformative journey of self-reflection and embrace the wisdom of living each day as if it were your last. Find happiness, strengthen relationships, and pursue your passions. Seize the opportunity to make every moment count and unlock the power of tomorrow.

Did you know that altering your attitude can change your life? It's true! Our attitudes are self-programmable, and through conscious effort, we can navigate towards happiness and overcome any obstacle that comes our way. "The Wonder of Positivity" will empower you to embrace positivity as the key to personal growth and success.

Explore the profound influence of mandirs, sacred Hindu places of worship, in revolutionizing lives and communities. These spiritual sanctuaries not only facilitate personal growth but also promote community service, cultivating empathy and selflessness. Discover the transformative power of a visit to a mandir, where acts of kindness and generosity are nurtured, and gain insight into their crucial role in forging a more compassionate and harmonious world for everyone.

Food is a natural communal and unifying factor in every culture, bringing unknown people together and families closer. Eating results in bonding, sharing, and connecting as some of its beautiful side effects. Listen in on how one family's tenet developed into "what we put into our bodies shapes who we become."

No matter how life tilts and turns, something keeps you rooted in who you are and the person you are becoming. Join this engineer on her moment of connection to her personal "quantum locking", as she takes you through a beautiful sensory experience of one of the most significant aspects of her life. Enjoy the journey!

Unlocking our potential requires constant tuning and adjustment. Harmony - both musical and with others - requires a keen sense of adjustment. But what is the secret formula to developing harmony? Listen to how one musician learned the value of harmony through playing the trombone.

What brings you joy, and how can you accumulate more of it? Some people are satisfied by finite, temporary sources of joy, while others look for something more long-lasting. Listen in on how this reflective educator explores varied foundations of joy and stumbles upon her own realizations.

This is a new series called Tales of Wisdom. Storytelling is a means to impart knowledge and wisdom. Complicated and difficult-to-understand concepts can be distilled by very simple analogies. Yogiji Maharaj, one of the Gurus of BAPS, was very fond of using stories. 

When we attempt to measure our love for others, our parents, family members, and even best friends probably rank highest on our list. But do we love them without barriers, or is there a limit to our love?  Listen to one individual as she explores what true unconditional love is and how it is helping her live a more fulfilled life.

“With a composed mind, one should introspect every day: 'What have I come to accomplish in this world and what am I doing?' 

“It’s not stress that kills us, it is our reaction to it.” — Hans Selye. 

Most presents we receive quench our worldly needs and provide temporary happiness. However, is there a gift that keeps on giving? Listen in as Nidhi Patel, an occupational therapist, shares her discovery of that unexpected gift!

Almost everyone tries to pursue happiness in life, but most try to achieve this with materialistic objects and experiences that only last for not so long.  Follow the journey of one individual who breaks down his experience in the pursuit of true happiness.

Compassion is the missing element in conflicts happening around the world.  Without it, humanity cannot survive.  This episode explores how Pramukh Swami Maharaj exemplified the epitome of compassion and how we may seek inspiration from his life.

"A candle loses nothing by lighting another candle." Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a time filled with fun, food, and festivities, but it is also a time to reflect on our lives and brighten our inner light to shine externally. Listen to the reflection of one individual and how they have been inspired to spread warmth and joy by serving and helping others.

Volunteering can take many forms such as helping at the local library, serving meals at a soup kitchen, or simply assisting an elderly person cross the street. However, what is important is the intent behind those efforts.  Is there a secondary motive or expectation behind those actions or is the act of kindness truly one of selfless service to others?  Learn how one individual reflects on how the intent behind such actions can increase one's joy and satisfaction from volunteering.

Transitioning to college can be simultaneously exciting and daunting for many young individuals every year.  Like a river that meets the ocean, students are expected to leave behind a more familiar, structured life to embrace new responsibilities, routines, friends, and extracurriculars.  Learn about the struggles one individual faced and how he was able to navigate the transition during his first year of college.

The parenting journey is filled with joys, doubts, excitement, fear, confidence, and confusion. One of the heaviest responsibilities of parenting is instilling values and character into young and impressionable souls. Listen in on one mother's letter to her child as she reflects on her guiding light throughout the wonderful journey of parenthood.

People have long been searching for ways to add to their physical, emotional, social, or spiritual self-growth. One approach is volunteering. In Hinduism, seva (selfless service) is a critical component of one’s spiritual path. It is a way to serve others without regard for one’s identity or recognition. Listen to how the experience of one such volunteer led to a fulfilling discovery of selfless service.

Forgiveness can be difficult. But a quote from Jonathan Lockwood Huie goes, "Forgive Others Not Because They Deserve Forgiveness But Because You Deserve Peace." History has shown many incidents in which one can forgive in difficult circumstances. This episode provides insight into two examples from the lives of Bhagwan Shri Ram and HH Pramukh Swami Maharaj.

In the jungle, no two animals are the same. They vary in size, strength, and agility. However, these characteristics do not define the order of the food chain. Instead, it's their Mindset. The mind is a powerful tool, and mastering our mindset is the key to changing our perspective on how we live. Part of this is knowing who we are, understanding our true selves, and being proud of what we believe in.

How do you build a brick wall? One brick at a time. This analogy provides one of the most important lesson on productivity. Can this concept also apply to the spiritual realm? Find out through this inspiring episode. 

Caste is an often-misunderstood concept attributed to Hinduism. Learn how a practicing HIndu feels about equality and dignity of all living beings through the personal experiences of Dr. Kashyap Patel, as he faced the contradictions of his own personal experiences and those taught in his middle school many years ago. 

A curveball is something that catches you off guard.  Life is full of twists and turns, and we often face challenging circumstances and situations.  How do we manage in such times? This episode will provide insights to better enable us to deal with the curveballs of life.

Just for a moment, pause and think about your mental health and well-being. How are you doing, really? Mental health has long been the elephant in the room, and it requires our time and attention now more than ever. The same steps we would take to revive a wilted sunflower can remind us that our mental health is essential and equally deserving of revival.

During our most difficult times, where do we find the strength to persevere?  Meet Niki and Manan, a couple from New Jersey who relied on each other, their family, their friends, their spirituality, their guru, and God during an unimaginably stressful time.  Here is their story.

Your personal identity is what makes you unique, and embracing your true self helps build confidence and strengthens your character. But sometimes it can be difficult to maintain when faced with an unfamiliar environment, or even worse, when ridiculed for being yourself.

"Taka dhimi, taka dhimi" is one of the many dance rhythms, or taals, of Bharatanatyam, the oldest classical dance tradition in India. Expressed as a living form of art, Bharatanatyam has a deep devotional component that pervades the artist beyond just the dance. Mastering this art form can be very demanding, both mentally and physically, and takes years of dedication and discipline, but ultimately, the journey is very rewarding. Learn how this art form influenced the life of one such individual.

Parents often see themselves as entrusted with the singular responsibility of raising perfect children. Anything less is a mere reflection of the flaws in the parent or a reflection of their inabilities. This mindset often leads to discomfort, anxiety and exhaustion. So how can parents cope with the pressures and paradoxes of parenting? Learn through the insights of a  school principal and parent, and through the guidance of an individual who was not a parent. 

Selfies have been around since 2010, just as smartphones with cameras began catching fire. The word "selfie", however, wasn’t recognized by the Oxford dictionary until 2013. But the word grew in such prominence in a short period of time, that 2014 was declared "The Year of the Selfie."

In one small gesture, one small mudra, one small asana, one seemingly mundane action, we can give another person (while simultaneously reminding ourselves) a very important message. Discover how the Anjali Mudra can help ourselves and our relationships. 

"The only thing more dangerous than ignorance is arrogance," said Albert Einstein. Seeming counter-intuitive to many, great leaders are humble. Discover the power of humility through the example of two great leaders of different kinds. 

It’s easy to get caught up in day-to-day life and forget that our actions affect everything around us. How are our actions affecting the Earth? The values of preservation and avoiding waste, caring for plants, animals and other human beings are more essential than ever. Which small lifestyle changes can we make to begin our go green journey? Find out through this insightful talk.  

Stress and anxiety can be all-consuming. These partners in crime can make bad situations worse. They affect our judgment and lead us to see things and think about things in ways that just are not productive. 

Surgeons do the same thing everyday in the operating room.  We do the same thing every year when Diwali arrives. In both scenarios there is a focus on the importance of “light”.  What does light really do that makes it so important? Dr Jamin Brahmbhatt, Urologist and Robotic Surgeon, from Orlando, FL shares a unique comparison between the light he adjusts daily in surgery to the internal light within us we need to continue focusing on past the week of Diwali. 

We have heard of 'lunchtime' and 'showtime'. But how about 'Me Time'? Why is it even necessary, and how can it be done? Siddharth Dubal, J.D., a Legal Recruiter, shares his experiences and insights. 

The memory of many months of distancing and near solitude due to COVID-19, coupled with returning to  spiritual life at a mandir, can remind us that we often take what we have for granted. Rakesh Patel, an attorney by profession, shares his experiences and insights. 

What can the COVID19 teach us about science and faith? Dr. Kashyap Patel, a cardiologist by profession, elaborates on his insights and experiences with returning to normalcy. 

The greatest leaders of history did the same things we do every day. They worked hard; so do we. They made decisions; so do we. They had courage; so do we. They strived to make their dreams come true; so do we.

Even more important than leading consciously is leading super-consciously. What makes leading super-consciously so important and how can humanity benefit? How can we become bigger than our individual selves? (Part 2 of 2)

Ever got angry at a slow driver in a fast lane? Dr. Kashyap Patel, a cardiologist by profession, describes the profound insights he gained from a routine ordeal on a highway. 

Pain is inevitable, but suffering is truly optional. Dr. Kashyap Patel, a cardiologist, narrates how an experience in his own life taught him a powerful lesson on the power of faith. 

Why is it that we love to hear about the faults and challenges of other people, even though we know that the knowledge may not be useful to us? Find out through an enlightening talk on the nature of gossip. 

What do Apollo 13, Dwight Eisenhower, Steve McQueen, five miners trapped in a zinc mine have in common? Find out how the answer to this question can also help us deal with difficult situations in life. 

A Solution: We search far and wide for solutions to our pressures of life, but ultimately they are in vain. The wise make it easy for us. What do they point to?  (Part 2 of 3)

An Action: Ancient truths can help prepare one to overcome trying times and uncertainties of life. But how do we make ancient truths relevant today?  (Part 3 of 3)

An Illusion: What we see is not always what really is. Pursuing illusions leads to many different types of pressures in life.  How do we cope?  Pujya Shukhmuni Swami shares some insights. (Part 1 of 3)

Two different perspectives and mindsets. Two different results. The choice is in our own hands. Pujya Gnanpurush Swami elaborates. 

Diwali is the festival of lights. The story of Bhagwan Ram and the victory of good over evil have been celebrated for millennia. But there is another part to the story that can teach us a valuable lesson in daily life. Pujya Chaitanyamurti Swami elaborates on how that lesson can set us free. 

How can we deal with difficult situations in life? Pujya Gnanpurush Swami offers insights through the analogy of a game of cards. 

If life is a sculpture, and you are the stone, what are the hammers and chisels we can use to carve our masterpiece? Pujya Chaitanyamurti Swami shares a few tools that are indispensable in shaping our lives. (Part 1 of 2)

If life is a sculpture, and you are the stone, what are the hammers and chisels we can use to carve our masterpiece? Pujya Chaitanyamurti Swami shares a few tools that are indispensable in shaping our lives. (Part 2 of 2)

In the Mahabharata, a question-answer dialogue between Yaksh and Yudishthir has deep connotations even today in our daily life. Pujya Tyagprakash Swami elaborates on the answers given by Yudhishthir. 

In the Mahabharata, a question-answer dialogue between Yaksh and Yudishthir has deep connotations even today in our daily life. Pujya Tyagprakash Swami elaborates on the answers given by Yudhishthir. 

In the Mahabharata, a question-answer dialogue between Yaksh and Yudishthir has deep connotations even today in our daily life. Pujya Tyagprakash Swami elaborates on the answers given by Yudhishthir. 

During our most difficult moments in life, how can prayer help give us hope and positivity? Is prayer scientific? Do my prayers get answered? In a talk delivered in India a few years ago, Pujya Brahmavihari Swami sheds light on these and other questions faced by all of us on the spiritual path. 

How can wisdom and knowledge give us the stability we seek in life? Chaitanyamurti Swami shares valuable insights on this important question of life. 

The Mahabharata is the longest epic poem ever written. But more important is the fact that the wisdom it offers encompasses every major aspect of life. In this talk, Bhaktivardhan Swami elaborates on how Arjun was able to win the war. 

The Mahabharata is the longest epic poem ever written. But more important is the fact that the wisdom it offers encompasses every major aspect of life. In this talk, Bhaktivardhan Swami elaborates on how one of the stories in the Mahabharata, Draupadi's prayer, can bring us closer to God. 

The Mahabharata is the longest epic poem ever written. But more important is the fact that the wisdom it offers encompasses every major aspect of life. In this talk, Bhaktivardhan Swami elaborates on how the Mahabharata can teach us the key to courage. 

Hinduism offers a treasure of wisdom to help us live a rich, robust and happy life. In this talk, Snehmuni Swami elaborates on how Krishna Bhagwan's flute, as described in the Shrimad Bhagwat Puran, can teach us profound lessons on life.

Hinduism offers a treasure of wisdom to help us live a rich, robust and happy life. In this talk, Snehmuni Swami elaborates on how Krishna Bhagwan's flute, as described in the Shrimad Bhagwat Puran, can teach us profound lessons on life.

We know a lot about outer space. But inside our own minds there is a whole universe, an inner space, that is yet to be explored, charted and harnessed. Find out what that inner space holds and what we need to do to harness its power. 

Can dinosaurs, cockroaches and dynamic range teach us important lessons during a pandemic? Chaitanyamurti Swami explains through an insightful essay. 

Hinduism offers a treasure of wisdom to help us live a rich, robust and happy life. In this talk, Snehmuni Swami elaborates on how Krishna Bhagwan's flute, as described in the Shrimad Bhagwat Puran, can teach us profound lessons on life.

Hinduism offers a treasure of wisdom to help us live a rich, robust and happy life. In this talk, Yoganand Swami elaborates on how one of the chapters of the Ramayan, the Sundar Kãnd, can teach us profound lessons on life.

Hinduism offers a treasure of wisdom to help us live a rich, robust and happy life. In this talk, Yoganand Swami elaborates on how one of the chapters of the Ramayan, the Sundar Kãnd, can teach us profound lessons on life.

Hinduism offers a treasure of wisdom to help us live a robust and balanced life. In this talk, Paramtattva Swami elaborates on how the Mahabharat can teach us profound lessons on our responsibilities in everyday life.

Hinduism offers a treasure of wisdom to help us live a robust and balanced life. In this talk, Paramtattva Swami discusses how the Mahabharat can teach us very important lessons on faith.  

Hinduism offers a treasure of wisdom to help us live a robust and balanced life. In this talk, Paramtattva Swami discusses how the Mahabharat can teach us lessons on resilience in our current pandemic-inflicted world and in the future.