Diwali at Neasden Temple brought together tens of thousands in prayer, joy, and service, uniting people of diverse faiths and backgrounds in the spirit of light and togetherness on Monday 20 October 2025.
The Temple was adorned with vibrant rangolis, glowing diyas (lamps), and intricate decorations symbolising the triumph of light over darkness and goodness over evil. Families enjoyed a dazzling fireworks display and a variety of vegetarian street food and desserts inspired by global cuisines.
Traditional ceremonies created moments of reflection and community. Central to this was the Annakut, held on Wednesday 22 October, where hundreds of vegetarian delicacies, sweets, and fruits were beautifully arranged before the deities in thanksgiving – a timeless offering marking the Hindu New Year.
Extending the spirit of Diwali beyond the Mandir, volunteers supported local food banks and charities, reflecting the ethos of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj – serving others with humility and compassion.
Several distinguished guests joined the celebrations, including His Excellency Vikram Doraiswami, High Commissioner of India to the United Kingdom, and Rt Hon Wes Streeting MP, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care.
Addressing the congregation, Rt Hon Streeting expressed, “Thank you to the organisers and hundreds of volunteers [at Neasden Temple] for making this magnificent event possible. I am struck by the warmth, sense of belonging, vibrant culture, and the profound generosity that define this community. I’ve seen just how much this temple does for the wider community, too, showing that same generosity of spirit that’s come to characterise this wonderful and historic place.
“This evening’s festivities also give us an opportunity to reflect on the deep, enduring, and defining partnership between the United Kingdom and India. Your role in the UK’s story is crucial to the prosperity and well-being of us all. The NHS owes so much to the generations of British Indians who have helped to build it, shape it, and sustain it. Their dedication, skill, and compassion are the backbone of our health service, and I see the impact of their contribution every day in our hospitals, our surgeries, and our clinics.”
Bollywood actor and philanthropist Akshay Kumar, his wife Twinkle Khanna, and their children Aarav and Nitara also joined the Diwali celebrations at Neasden Temple.
Leader of the Conservative Party visits Neasden Temple on Diwali
Rt Hon Kemi Badenoch MP, Leader of the Conservative Party, visited BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London – popularly known as ‘Neasden Temple’ on 22 October to mark the Diwali and Hindu New Year celebrations.
During her visit, Rt Hon Badenoch offered prayers at the Temple and met with volunteers and community representatives, conveying her warm wishes to the British Hindu community as they marked one of the most significant festivals in the calendar. She was also joined on the occasion by Shadow Foreign Secretary Priti Patel MP.
Addressing the congregation, Rt Hon Badenoch said, “It is a personal honour to join you at this joyous celebration, in this magnificent Neasden Temple – a testament to British diversity and a celebration of faith. The Hindu community in Britian continues to enrich our country through enterprise, education, charity, and seva – strengthening the fabric of modern Britain. Your values of faith, family, and service mirror the best of our national spirit – hard work, compassion, and the belief that we are stronger together.”
Sanjay Kara, Trustee of the BAPS Hindu fellowship in the UK, said: “We were pleased to welcome Kemi Badenoch MP to Neasden Temple for our Diwali and New Year celebrations. Diwali is a special time for reflection, renewal, and community, and we appreciate her taking the time to join us on this important occasion.”
Thousands of visitors attended the celebrations at Neasden Temple, which featured colourful offerings, devotional ceremonies, and prayers for peace and prosperity in the year ahead.
