Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) is a socio-spiritual Hindu organization with its roots in the Vedas. The life of its founder Yogi Sri Neelakatha Varuni (1781-1830) known as Sri Swaminarayan is a continuous tale of spiritual miracles.People who know about the basics of Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) are aware of the strict ascetic practices ordained to their Sadhus known as Swamis. "Sadhus make a lifetime commitment to the altruistic service of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, their guru, and society. They strictly adhere to the five vows prescribed by Bhagwan Swaminarayan: eight-fold celibacy, detachment, humility, and aversion to wealth and taste. Sadhus leave behind their ties to the material world so that they can truly serve selflessly". This include Male-Female Discilpine which separates mixing of pious men and women who has taken a vow of celibacy. Here is the relevent portion taken from "Vachanamrutham" of Sri Swaminarayan given at Gadhada, Gujarat:
"People often say that if the mind is pure, purity prevails everywhere. But this is misleading in as much as even the most pious or the one enjoying samadhi, if he is caught in a woman's glance, he is sure to vitiate. Similarly, if a pious woman develops contact with men, she is sure to be deprived of her chastity. Such uncalled for mixings of even pious men and women will definitely deprive them of their chastity. This is an indisputable truth." (Gems From Vachanamrut - Gad. II-35).
We may or may not agree with the belief of Swamis of BAPS. But, Sri Swaminarayan movement is doing a great service to humanity by way of Charities. We should go through their websites to understand the same.
The fact is that such practice of segregation is not confined to Hindu religious cults only. I am surprised how the Lady author or the orgaganizers of the function do not know about the practice follwed by the Swamis of BAPS?
Though I respect the belief of others,personally,I do not believe or practice any form of restriction or segregation among the humanity.
Brahmanyan,
Bangalore.