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The BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute New Zealand hosted its 2026 conference, “Timeless Teachings from Hindu Gurus,” on Sunday, 24 May 2026, at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Avondale, Auckland.
The conference brought together over 70 community and spiritual leaders from 27 organisations, reflecting a shared commitment to preserving Hindu values, strengthening cultural identity, and fostering unity among Hindu, cultural and community organisations in New Zealand.
Organised by the BAPS Swaminaraya
n Research Institute, the event explored the endur
ing role of the guru in Hindu tradition and how the teachings of Hindu gurus continue to guide individuals, families and communities in modern society.
Representatives attended from a wide range of spiritual, cultural and community organisations, including Shri Shirdi Saibaba Sanstha of NZ, NZICA, Chinmaya Mission, Bhartiya Mandir, Hindu Council of NZ, Swadhyay Parivar, Shiv Temple, Maa Durga Temple, Thirumurugan Temple, Shri Ram Krishna Mandir, Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple, Bharatiya Charitable Trust, SRMD Auckland, ISKCON NZ, Bhatiya Mandir, Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh, Hindu Foundations New Zealand, Shri Radha Krishna Temple, Gayatri Parivar, NZ Elders Foundation, Hindu Malayalees NZ, Sant Nirankari Mission, SEWA International, Tamil Association, Sri Balaji Temple Hamilton, Dada Bhagwan, Ganesh Temple and Venkatan Devasthan, among others.
The programme opened with devotional chanting, including dhun, prarthana and stuti, performed by the BAPS kirtan team. A video presentation then highlighted the journey of BSRI conferences from previous years and introduced this year’s theme.
This was followed by the traditional deep pragatya, symbolising the light of knowledge and wisdom. Sadhus, community representatives, invited guests and BAPS trustees participated in the ceremony, marking the formal opening of the conference.
This year’s conference was centred on the well-known Sanskrit verse: “Gurur Brahma, Gurur Vishnu, Gurur Devo Maheshwara, Guruh Sakshat Parabrahma.”
Each part of the verse was explored through speeches, devotional presentations, videos and a panel discussion, offering attendees a deeper understanding of the guru’s role in creating, nurturing and transforming spiritual life.
The first presentation, “Gurur Brahma – The Guru Creates,” was delivered by Hemant Vora from Shrimad Rajchandra Mission Dharampur Auckland. His message highlighted how the guru creates purpose, values and clarity in life, helping individuals awaken to their higher self, understand what they stand for, and live with greater meaning.
A devotional bhajan was then presented by ISKCON Mandal, expressing gratitude, reverence and devotion through music. The performance added a devotional atmosphere to the evening and highlighted the emotional connection between the guru and the devotee.
The second presentation, “Gurur Vishnu – The Guru Nurtures,” was delivered by Br. Ishaan Chaitanya from Chinmaya Mission. His message highlighted the guru’s role in nurturing spiritual growth through compassion, patience and guidance, helping seekers develop strength, discipline and understanding through life’s challenges.
One of the key moments of the conference was a panel discussion on “Gurur Devo Maheshwara – The Guru Transforms.” Two BAPS panellists and a host discussed how the guru helps individuals overcome negative habits, addictions, ego and inner weaknesses, leading to true inner transformation. The discussion highlighted that transformation begins when individuals stop defending their weaknesses and allow the guru’s wisdom to shape their character.
The final theme, “Guruh Sakshat Parabrahma – The Guru is God Incarnate,” was presented by a BAPS sadhu following a video introduction to His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, the spiritual leader of BAPS. His message highlighted the Hindu understanding of the guru as the manifest form of divine guidance, leading devotees toward moksha, devotion and spiritual purity.
The conference also highlighted BSRI’s ongoing educational work. A presentation introduced upcoming initiatives, including the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita shloka learning class and Hinduism Class 3, aimed at helping children, youth and families understand Hindu scriptures, traditions and values in a structured and accessible way.
A parent reflection video shared the positive impact of these classes, with parents describing how children have developed greater confidence, discipline, cultural identity and appreciation for Hindu teachings.
The event concluded with arti, a vote of thanks, announcements, the Dhyey Mantra and samapan shlok, followed by a group photograph with guests and community representatives. Mahaprasad was served after the event.
Through this annual conference, BSRI New Zealand continued its mission to advance learning, scholarship and culture while encouraging a value-based understanding of Hindu wisdom. By bringing together different community organisations, leaders and families, the conference served as a platform for meaningful discussion, community engagement and the practical application of Hindu teachings in contemporary life. This year’s theme reinforced the timeless role of the guru tradition in guiding individuals toward inner growth, moral clarity, selfless service and spiritual progress. -TIN Bureau