Suffolk Dedicates Tree To Late Hindu Guru Who Helped Build 1,100 Temples

HAUPPAUGE, NY — A Tuscarora Crape Myrtle Tree and plaque were dedicated to Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the fifth spiritual guru and leader of Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), at the H. Lee Dennison Building in Hauppauge on Wednesday by Suffolk County.

Maharaj would have been 101 years on Wednesday. He died on Aug. 13, 2016.

He was the Pramukh, or president, of BAPS, a major branch of the Hindu denomination Swaminarayan Sampradaya. He helped to build more than 1,100 temples, including the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Melville. He dedicated his life to the well-being of others and led by example inspiring others through his work and character, the county stated.

"This is such an important occasion for us here in Suffolk County," Executive Steve Bellone stated. "Of course, we were very proud as we were celebrating the 100th centennial of the birth of Pramukh Swami Maharaj."

The tree can grow up to 25 feet and blooms in the springtime, featuring pinkish flowers.

"It really is a representation of the foundation life, of wisdom, growth, prosperity; so many of the things that Pramukh Swami Maharaj has represented and done throughout his life," Bellone said.

Maharaj has impacted many lives around the globe, Bellone said.

"His legacy will continue to do so for generations to come. So to will this tree named in his honor be here and benefit generations to come, as well."

The tree, Bellone said, is a permanent declaration of the "extraordinary contributions" that Maharaj has made around the globe, as well as on Long Island.