With our deepest sympathy, we inform the passing away of nishthavan satsangi from Nairobi, Mahendrabhai Mithabhai Patel, on April 26. A staunch and dedicated devotee, Mahendrabhai came to London in 1950 during the time of Brahmaswarup Shastriji Maharaj, and was involved in the early days of Satsang in London in the 1950s. Former trustee of UK Satsang Mandal, he was one of the pioneers who founded the Sanstha in the UK and organised Satsang gatherings in Kent, Finchley Road, Belsize Park, and Hyde Park.
He later settled in Nairobi, where he was a leading devotee of Africa Satsang Mandal and served in many capacities for the Sanstha including his role as a core trustee of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha around the world. He also held the post of Chairman of Kenya Satsang Mandal and East Africa Satsang Mandal for several years. Mahendrabhai was well respected by all for his seva, katha-varta, and his unmatchable dedication towards Satsang. Also notable was his involvement in managing events, including the birth celebrations of Brahmaswarup Pramukh Swami Maharaj in Nairobi in 1975 and 1988, Sagar Yatra in 1995, and the more than grand opening of BAPS Shrit Swaminarayan Mandir, Nairobi in 1999.
A blessed man, Mahendrabhai received vartman from Brahmaswarup Shastriji Maharaj, who he had served in his early years. He continued his seva and received the blessings of Brahmaswarup Yogiji Maharaj, Brahmaswarup Pramukh Swami Maharaj, and Pragat Brahmaswarup Mahant Swami Maharaj.
BAPS UK expressed its condolences on the bereavement. It said, “We pray to Bhagwan Swaminarayan and Guruhari Mahant Swami Maharaj to grant his soul with eternal peace in Akshardham; and also offer prayers for the family to bear this loss with courage and strength. Mahendrabhai is survived by daughter Rena Amin, son-in-law Piyush Amin, and grandson Niravand Dharmic Amin. Mahendrabhai's antim vidhi ceremony was held on April 29, at BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, and funeral was held the same day at the Hindu Shamshan Bhumi Kariokor.
