The term is also applied to Hindu ascetics (e.g., sadhus, gurus, swamis and yogis). Many mandirs are also home to BAPS swamis, or monks. Kerala is home to Hindu saints and swamis of all castes. He, and other senior swamis, returned nearly every year, nurturing and inspiring devotees. Devotees and swamis alike looked up to him for leadership and direction. In 2004, Hinduism Today asked Hindu swamis (teachers) their opinion of same-sex marriage. There is a living quarters for the swamis who perform daily rituals in the mandir. Altogether, Swaminarayan ordained 3,000 swamis over the span of his leadership. International experts contributed their expertise with BAPS volunteers and swamis to produce this one-of-a-kind presentation. He was initiated in the order of swamis in 1967. A team of eight swamis were assigned to oversee the Akshardham project. Swaminarayan also encouraged his swamis to serve others. The swamis expressed a range of opinions, positive and negative.