BAPS Better Living

On the evening of Wednesday, October 14, BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Atlanta, Georgia, hosted its inaugural Executive Forum, featuring an insightful address on living a “Value Added Life” by Pujya Brahmaviharidas Swami. The forum brought together over 100 distinguished executives, presidents, board members, and senior leaders from leading companies for an evening of reflection, meaningful dialogue, and inspiration. The discussion explored how timeless values, purpose, humility, and...

In this episode of the BAPS Better Living Inspired Series, psychiatrist, physician leader, founder, and lifelong learner Dr. Sejal Mehta shares why she continues to evolve, serve, and pursue new possibilities at every stage of life. From building a career in psychiatry and leading within the medical community to launching a nonprofit and exploring responsible AI in healthcare, Dr. Mehta’s journey is grounded in one central belief: purpose doesn’t diminish with time - it deepens. I...

This episode of Dharmic Life explores smartphone and social media addiction through personal experiences, research, and a dharmic lens. Today, digital platforms are intentionally engineered to capture our attention through constant notifications and endless feeds. This has fueled the rise of “doomscrolling,” a habit known to negatively affect our mood, mental well-being, and relationships. In fact, rising smartphone use has coincided with a sharp increase in youth depression,...

Faith is often spoken about as something we either have or we don’t. But is it really that simple? And does having faith mean believing without questioning? In Part 1 of this two-part conversation with P. Chaitanyamurtidas Swami, we explore the idea of faith from a thoughtful and practical perspective. We look at why faith plays such a central role in spiritual life, how it relates to reason and trust, and whether the way we rely on people, systems, and knowledge in everyday life can te...

Why Relationships Feel Empty (and What to Do About It): Rethinking Love and Friendship Through a Spiritual Lens In this BAPS Better Living Dharmic Life episode, Palak and Rakhee discuss a dharmic perspective on love, friendship, and faith. They explore how one small but powerful shift in perspective can transform the way we show up in our most meaningful relationships. Drawing from their own experiences and practices, they explore a simple but powerful question: “Am I becoming the...

Why do we know what is right, but still struggle to do it? In this episode of Windows into Wisdom by BAPS Better Living, we sit down with Pujya Snehmunidas Swami to explore one of the most honest struggles in spiritual growth: the gap between knowing better and actually doing better. Many of us have heard wisdom about patience, forgiveness, discipline, prayer, humility, and inner change. We may even feel inspired in the moment. But when life tests us, old habits, emotions, ego, an...

In this episode of the BAPS Better Living Inspired Series, we sit down with Payal Patel, Director of Business Development at Robert Half, to explore what happens when logic can only take us so far. With a background in law, Payal shares how faith, values, and spirituality have helped her navigate difficult decisions, professional pressure, and moments when there is no perfectly logical answer. Together, we explore how honesty, integrity, introspection, and faith can help us live...

Belonging in the Diaspora: A Dharmic View on Identity, Citizenship, and Seva In this episode of BAPS Better Living’s Dharmic Life episode, Dhawal and Kashyap discuss identity and belonging as diaspora Hindus in North America. They explore how immigrants often feel tension between preserving Hindu practices and fitting into Western society, with Kashyap sharing experiences growing up as the only Hindu in his Alabama school and feeling embarrassed about rituals. Framing the conversa...

Join US Congressman Pete Sessions as he shares his story of visiting India. In this candid conversation with Pujya Brahmaviharidas Swami, Congressman Sessions shares his deep regard for India’s culture and people. He shares his experiences seeing the industry, creativity, and especially the spirituality of the people. He talks about his experiences meeting His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj and the deep impact it left on him. In this episode, explore how spirituality helps us trans...

Embodying Honor, Commitment, and Courage with Meera Amin The values that sustain us through life's greatest challenges often become the foundation upon which we build our character, leadership, and purpose. In this special episode of the Inspired Series, we are honored to feature Meera Amin. She is a Marine veteran, a Project Manager for the Chief Medical Officer at Disney, and a Doctoral Candidate in Whole Health Leadership. As America commemorates its 250th anniversary, M...

In this episode of Inspired by BAPS Better Living, U.S. Air Force officer and pilot Jaydevsinh Zala shares how his immigrant father’s unrealized dream of becoming a pilot inspired him from childhood, reinforced by seva (selfless service) and a desire to give back to America. Throughout it all, guidance from his guru and continuing to perform his daily ahnik (spiritual routine) helped him stay true to his roots, even during challenging times. 🎧 Tune in to hear how creativity, spiritualit...

This episode of Dharmic Life on the BAPS Better Living podcast explores Dr. Tony Nader’s book The Power of Caring and why modern society, especially younger generations, faces loneliness, isolation, and numbness through distractions. Joined by co-hosts Kashyap and Dhawal, the discussion engages Dr. Nader, a Harvard and MIT-trained neuroscientist, medical doctor, and leader of the Transcendental Meditation program, on how caring is transformative, rooted in deep spiritual foundation, and...

In this episode of the BAPS Better Living: Inspired Series, we speak with Bawa Jain, Secretary General of the World Council of Religious Leaders, about his journey from a business family in India to deep involvement at the United Nations after his guru, Acharya Sushil Kumarji Maharaj, instructed him to stay in the U.S. and work with the UN. Jain recounts building networks within the UN, chairing events during the UN’s 50th anniversary, and helping launch the 2000 Millennium World Peace ...

Life rarely unfolds exactly the way we planned. Careers shift. Relationships change. Expectations break. And sometimes, the hardest part is not what happened… but letting go of what we thought life was “supposed” to look like. In this episode of Dharmic Life, we experience a discussion between Palak Shah and Rakhee Patel as they share personal reflections on navigating the unexpected turns life can bring. Together, we explore how faith, perspective, and trust in God can help us navigate...

What does it mean to live creatively while staying grounded in purpose and spirituality? In the latest episode of BAPS Better Living – Inspired Series, we sit down with artist and UX/UI designer Jaykishan Patel for a thoughtful conversation about creativity, career, identity, and the values that shape the paths that we choose. From sketching the Atlanta Mandir as it was being built during his childhood to balancing professional design work, family responsibilities, and artistic passion ...

In this episode of the Dharmic Life Podcast on BAPS Better Living, host Dhawal, Dr. Kashyap, and Rashmi discuss what organized religion really means and why it is essential for spiritual progress. The talk delves into concerns that people have about organized religion, especially when relating to losing their individuality, falling into blind rituals, and the real scandals and hypocrisy that often come up. Through it all, the participants address these real concerns through the le...

What does leadership look like when it’s rooted in service? In the latest episode of the BAPS Better Living – Inspired Series, we speak with Dr. Angelina Mehta - a Gunnery Sergeant in the U.S. Marine Reserve and a Naturopathic Doctor who leads with both discipline and compassion. Angelina’s journey spans two worlds that rarely intersect: the rigor of military service and the healing work of medicine. Yet for her, both paths share a common foundation - service to others. Growing up with ...

In this episode of BAPS Better Living Dharmic Life, we explore what it means to be spiritual amidst practices like yoga, meditation, retreats, mindfulness, and decluttering. Feeling spiritual is different than being spiritual. Often, we see social media performances where liking posts, sharing quotes, and other outward “spiritual” aesthetics replace real action and consistent inner work. But true spirituality is striving for something greater than ego, aligning inner identity (sou...

Amar Chollera is an entrepreneur and global business operator whose life spans multiple continents - from growing up in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, to studying at UCLA and building a career across the U.S., UAE, and East Africa. Through major life transitions - including the loss of a family member, stepping into greater family responsibility, navigating newly married life, and facing the uncertainties of entrepreneurship - Amar has remained deeply grounded in his faith and values. I...

In Part 2 of Windows into Wisdom, Pujya Bhaktivardhandas Swami takes us deeper into a transformative insight - The self can be discovered through association with God. Rather than constructing identity from the outside in, spiritual wisdom teaches that one’s identity is revealed through relationship - devotion, nearness, and alignment with the Divine. Who we associate with shapes who we become. When that association is with God, identity expands rather than contracts. It stabili...

In this episode of Windows into Wisdom, we sit down with Pujya Bhaktivardhandas Swami to explore a powerful spiritual question: are we truly the identities we have built around ourselves? We often define ourselves by our career, roles, relationships, achievements, personality, opinions, or even our struggles. But these identities shift. They evolve. Sometimes they disappear. If our profession changes… If our relationships change… If our status or abilities change…&nbs...

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. Hemali shares how she navigated the demanding years of medical training while staying connected to her satsang values, drawing strength and perspective through long hours, uncertainty, and the emotional weight of caring for patients. Inspired by a lack of represe...

What does it mean to live your values with confidence in a constantly changing world? In this episode of Dharmic Life by BAPS Better Living, Palak and Akshara share heartfelt reflections on how faith, family, and community shape not only what we believe - but who we become. From childhood experiences of trying to fit in to watching their children embrace their Hindu American identity with pride, they explore how understanding the deeper meaning behind traditions transforms rituals...

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. Drawing inspiration from her spiritual guide, Roma reflects on how inner grounding influences her approach to leadership, service, and decision-making. ...

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? Join our hosts as they reflect on why achievements, comfort, and recognition alone are not enough to sustain lasting happiness. The conversation dives into the role spirituality plays in providing deeper meaning beyond material gains, and how spiritual growth can nurtur...

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. Through personal stories and thoughtful re...

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. They move from everyday examples into spiritual guidance: small daily pr...

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. Through thoughtful conversation and personal reflections, they uncover how spirituality offers a deeper lens for understanding grace and compassion in a world that often values cutting ties over reconciliati...

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. From her early years growing up in the BAPS satsang community to her work in hospitals and rural villages, Ria’s journey is a testament to how values of seva (selfless service) can shape both personal and professional purpose. Guided by empathy, humilit...

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. Why chase equilibrium when you can rise above it? Swamiji invites us to transcend the conventional idea of balancing work and peace - and instead cultivate a wholehearted, embodied mastery of every moment. Drawing from timeless spiritual wisdom, he reveals how inner mastery frees us from the ups and do...

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. Can peace truly coexist with productivity? Can action be effortless yet meaningful? Drawing from timeless spiritual wisdom, Swamiji reveals how selfless service and inner clarity transform daily work into a path toward peace and fulfillment. Through insightful reflections, he encourages us to act not out of pressure, but o...

In this episode of Windows into Wisdom, Pujya Gnanvatsaldas Swami invites us to look within and rediscover the power of purposeful living. Through insightful reflections shared at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in San Jose, California, Swamiji challenges us to rethink our habits, redesign our mindset, and rebuild our lives with clarity and intention. His message inspires us to pursue not just success, but significance - leading with values that bring true growth and fulfillment. Listeners ...

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. After a successful career in corporate America, Biren took the leap into entrepreneurship, building a startup in the fast-changing world of AI. Along the way, he discovered that many of today’s solutions are already embedded in Hindu wisdom - ...

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. Now pursuing a master’s in executive coaching, Rina reflects on the importance of giving back, creating space for other...

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. OTHER PLATFORMS: INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/baps_betterliving YOUT...

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. Drawing from personal experiences and heartfelt reflections, they explore how the fast pace of modern life, constant news, and social media contribute to rising societal anxiety. They offer a dharmic perspective grounded in timeless wisdom from the Mahabh...

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. Through personal anecdotes and insightful discussions, they highlight the importance of presence, empathy, and genuine interaction in both per...

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. OTHER PLATFORMS: INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/baps_betterliving YOUTUBE https://youtube.com/bapsbetterli...

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...

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 resilien...

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. OTHER PLATFORMS: INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/baps_betterliving YOUTUBE https://youtube.com/bapsbetterli...

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. OTHER PLATFORMS: INSTAGRAM https://www.i...

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. OTHER PLATFORMS: INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/baps_betterliving YOUTUBE https://youtube.com/bapsbetterliving LINKEDIN https://www.linkedin.com/compan...

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. OTHER PLATFORMS: INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/baps_betterliving YOUTUBE https://youtube.com/bapsbetterliving LINKEDIN ...

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 lif...

Discover how language is more than just words; it's a bridge to understanding, empathy, and unlocking the best version of oneself. OTHER PLATFORMS: INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/baps_betterliving YOUTUBE https://youtube.com/bapsbetterliving LINKEDIN https://www.linkedin.com/company/bapsswaminarayansanstha/

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. OTHER PLATFORMS: INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/baps_betterliving YOUTUBE https://youtube.com/bapsbetterliving LINKEDIN https://www.linkedin.com/company/bapsswaminarayansanstha/

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. OTHER PLATFORMS: INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/baps_b...

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! OTHER PLATFORMS: INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/baps_betterliving YOUTUBE https://youtube.com/bapsbetterliving LINKEDIN https://www.linkedin.com/company/bapsswa...

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. OTHER PLATFORMS: INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/baps_betterliving YOUTUBE https://youtube.com/bapsbetterliving LINKEDIN https://www.linke...