PM Modi in tears as he pays final respects to BAPS Pramukh Swami Maharaj

Sarangpur (Gujarat): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday paid his last respect to Bochasanvasi Akshar Purushottam Sanstha (BAPS) head Pramukh Swami Maharaj here in Sarangpur. Pramukh Swami Maharaj passed away on Saturday evening.Prime Minister Modi turned emotional as he burst into tears while paying his final respects to the 95-year-old founder of the Akshardham temples.

In his speech at the temple, the Prime Minister recalled his memories with late Pramukh Swami in shaping his life as his mentor in social life. He remembered Pramukh Swami`s suggestions after his every public speech.

"With the demise of Pramukh Swami, people have lost a Guru but he has lost a father," he said.

"Pramukh Swami is no more, his thoughts and spirit will always remain with us," he added.

Pramukh Swami`s spiritual journey started in January 1940 when he was initiated as a saint by his Guru Shastriji Maharaj, the founder of BAPS. He was a spiritual guide or mentor over one million followers, who worship him as incarnation of Lord Swaminarayan.The last rites of the spiritual leader will take place at 3 p.m. on August 17.