HSNC University, Mumbai organised its 4th edition of ’Harbingers of Change – Stories of Transformation’ lecture series with Dr. Pujya Gyanvatsal Swamiji as the Chief Guest and keynote speaker. Swamiji is a motivational speaker, spiritual leader and dedicated social reformer who heads BAPS (Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha), a worldwide, volunteer-driven organisation dedicated to the collective spiritual and social progress of society by promoting harmony. The lecture was also graced by Dr. Niranjan Hiranandani, Provost, HSNC University; Col. Dr. Hemlata K. Bagla, Vice Chancellor, HSNC University and Dr. Bhagwan Balani, Registrar, HSNC University. The theme for this year’s edition was ‘Rethink, Redesign & Rebuild: Transforming Your Life’.
The lecture began on a high note with an inspiring special address by Dr. Niranjan Hiranandani who articulated the vision and mission of HSNC University. He credited the success of HSNC University to Vice Chancellor Dr. Hemlata K. Bagla, a trailblazing educator with a passion to spearhead transformative, inclusive and meaningful education. It was Dr. Bagla who first mooted the idea of HSNC University and plunged headlong into the arduous journey of building an University par excellence, ably supported by the faculty and staff of all the constituent Colleges and Schools.
The towering real estate tycoon, renowned for his humility and philanthropic initiatives, warmly welcomed Swamiji and paid glowing tributes to him, acknowledging his significant contributions in promoting educational initiatives within the BAPS community. These initiatives, including schools, colleges and vocational training centers, aim to help young people seamlessly integrate traditional values with modern learning. Swamiji is globally respected for his profound spiritual wisdom, dedication to service and leadership in promoting spirituality and humanitarian initiatives. BAPS has started over 1700 institutions over the past 15 years and 58 more are in the pipeline.
Provost Dr. Niranjan Hiranandani during his special address at the fourth edition of ‘ Harbingers of Change: Stories of Transformation’ |
Dr. Hiranandani stressed on the importance of the youth in the development of the country. He also highlighted the importance of the ’Harbingers of Change – Stories of Transformation’ flagship annual lecture series which helps to foster cultural and social awareness with a focus on social responsibility and ethical leadership. The prestigious HSNC University lecture series endeavours to motivate the students to embrace their culture, conduct research and contribute to solving national issues. Nobel Peace laureate Dr. Kailash Satyarthi, Dr. Kiran Bedi and Dr. Tony Nader were the chief guests and keynote speakers at the earlier three editions of the ”Harbingers of Change – Stories of Transformation” series.
Swamiji started his keynote address by explaining that our mindset significantly influences how we approach life, work, relationships, opportunities and success. He contrasted two common mindsets—the prosperity mindset, which focuses on abundance, growth and the belief that success can be achieved through hard work and creativity vis-a-vis the poverty mindset, which is rooted in scarcity and limitation, often leading to self-sabotage and missed opportunities.
Dr. Pujya Gyanvatsal Swamiji during his keynote address at HSNC University’s fourth edition of ‘Harbingers of Change: Stories of Transformation’ |
Swamiji illustrated the prosperity mindset through the inspiring story of Sandeep Bacche, a Bandra-based auto driver, CNN-IBN Young Leader Award winner (2012) and two-time TEDx speaker. Bacche’s multi-utility rickshaw, which supports social causes like eye donation and water conservation while offering services like free Wi-Fi, water, first-aid kit, tea, phone charger, LCD and a donation box for cancer relief. He donates the funds to hospitals and supports the underprivileged, proving that success can benefit humanity. Bacche’s story teaches the value of service, generosity and inclusivity. His ability to creatively turn his humble profession into a force for positive change demonstrates how everyone, regardless of their background, can make a meaningful impact. Swamiji underlined the importance of giving back to the community and averred that generosity can create positive change beyond financial success.
Rather than approaching ‘giving’ as an act of charity or something to be proud of, Swamiji suggested that one should view it as a moral obligation—paying back or fulfilling a responsibility to society. He explained that the idea is that we are all part of a larger community and the resources we have are a result of the collective efforts of society. Therefore, contributing to the well-being of others, whether through donations, support or action, is not a favour we are doing, but a duty we owe in recognition of the opportunities and privileges we have received.
Dr. Pujya Gyanvatsal Swamiji responding to a question during the Q&A session at HSNC University’s fourth edition of ‘Harbingers of Change: Stories of Transformation’ |
Swamiji pointed out that embracing ethics and personal integrity builds credibility and creates a natural magnetism, attracting all the necessary resources to the ethical individual. Success is not just about winning but also how one plays the game. He cited the example of Australian cricketer Steve Smith, whose involvement in the 2018 ball-tampering scandal, tainted his reputation and led to a one-year suspension. The episode serves as a powerful reminder that even in high-pressure environments, upholding ethical standards is essential for long-term success and respect. “Never compromise with your integrity,” Swamiji implored.
Swamiji encouraged everyone to focus on good deeds, explaining that positive actions not only benefit others but also create a ripple effect that ultimately returns to us, fostering growth, peace and fulfillment. “Karma is like a frisbee: the energy we put out through our actions eventually comes back to us, shaped by the force and direction we give it,” Swamiji quipped.
Dr. Hemlata K. Bagla, Vice Chancellor, HSNC University and other dignitaries listening to the address by Dr. Pujya Gyanvatsal Swamiji during the 4th edition of ‘Harbingers of Change; Stories of Transformation’ |
Quoting John Chambers (former executive chairman and CEO of Cisco Systems), who recently said that India has the potential to become the No. 1 economy in the world, Swamiji asserted that this can only be achieved if the youth embrace the concept of ’Atmanirbhar’ (self-reliance). He reinforced that for India to realise its full potential, the younger generation must take charge of their own development, contribute innovatively and focus on creating sustainable, homegrown solutions to address global challenges. He told students that they have the potential to become the next Steve Jobs, Richard Branson, or Jeff Bezos, emphasising that with determination, vision and hard work, they can achieve extraordinary success.
Dr. Niranjan Hiranandani in conversation with Dr. Pujya Gyanvatsal Swamiji during the 4th edition of ‘Harbingers of Change; Stories of Transformation’ |
His address was followed by an engaging Q&A session, where Swamiji answered questions ranging from personal growth and spiritual practices to the role of youth in nation-building and the integration of traditional values with modern education.
Dr. Niranjan Hiranandani, Provost, HSNC University, with Dr. Pujya Gyanvatsal Swamiji at HSNC University’s fourth edition of ‘Harbingers of Change: Stories of Transformation |
Everyone left the event with a renewed sense of purpose, clarity and inspiration. The event was held at the Hiro Sitaldas Punwani Convocation Hall at the Worli campus of HSNC University on 13th January 2025.
