INDIA, April 16, 2016 (Scroll.us, by Sadhu Brahmaviharidas): BAPS was severely tested on 24 September 2002. What would later be classified as one of the worst terrorist attacks on a religious place in modern India engulfed the heart of BAPS. Its renowned Swaminarayan Akshardham, a 23-acre cultural complex dedicated to Bhagwan Swaminarayan in Gandhinagar, the capital of Gujarat, was besieged by two terrorists at 4:45 pm. Armed with AK-47 guns and hand grenades, the terrorists randomly and mercilessly killed 31 innocent pilgrims, including a sadhu of BAPS, and seriously wounded 70 others.
The attack was strongly condemned. National and international religious, political, and social leaders expressed their pain and solidarity. However, Pramukh Swami Maharaj stayed calm and composed amid this turmoil. He walked the path of prayer and forgiveness. The attack resulted in perhaps the most widespread nationwide bandh (general strike) independent India has seen. While debates, allegations, and anger mounted, Swamiji guided the crisis towards a peaceful outcome.
Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s emotional stability and a larger sense of responsibility to society kept BAPS together. In the days to follow, despite suffering a fever, Swamiji visited the Civil Hospital to comfort the injured and meet the families of the deceased. He sanctified the entire Akshardham complex and organised a public prayer and condolence assembly. All throughout, his actions did not seek sympathy, but ensured stability and spiritual maturity. His message to the people on the same night of the attack was broadcast nationally and internationally. It focused on peace and prayer, wherein he appealed “to all the people of Gujarat and India to maintain peace and unity in the wake of this national tragedy”.
Much more at “source” on this insightful account.