My journey with the Swaminarayan Sanstha has been a tremendous one. I was appointed as a Trustee of BAPS UK in 1992 by Pujya Pramukh Swami Maharaj. My parents were known for their Seva in Kenya, within the Swaminarayan Sanstha, and Bapa knew my background as a devotee, inheriting Satsang from my mother and father. Pujya Pramukh Swami Maharaj was aware of my skillset with negotiations and building, having gained experiences in creating large properties and establishing the great steel industry in Kenya. The question posed by Pujya Yogiji Maharaj was, “Who will build Mandirs?” and in response to this, my name was suggested to have the honour of serving the faith.
And so, my personal journey continued this way. The first and largest project that I undertook almost 30 years ago, was the construction of the first traditional Hindu Mandir in the western world, in Neasden. It has since become not only one of London’s best attractions, but recognised world over, attracting millions of visitors including tourists, school children and dignitaries, and is recognised as an architectural marvel.
Alongside the Mandir Project team and with the authority of the Board of Trustees, we appointed a full team from architects to contractors to engineers. For this project, and over the last 30 years, I have engaged in numerous trips to Italy, Greece, Turkey, Bulgaria and more to source and negotiate the marble and limestone used to build the Mandir and all the Murtis, not only for London, but for Akshardham Delhi, New Jersey, Chicago and more. It was the advise from Bapa, that these Mandirs have been built by the devotion of the devotees and it’s in their honour and hard work we build these immense landmarks to enhance our community. With guidance from Swamiji, a further 12 Centres in the UK and Europe have been developed.
Ever since it’s inception, through to the opening of the Neasden Mandir, and the 25 years since that particular auspicious occasion, the Mandir has been a central part of my life and an important part of our family, who have given me great support throughout. It has given us a place of worship but also a sense of pride and belonging. My mother, who is remembered fondly as Masiba throughout BAPS due to her dedication and seva, and indeed her compassion for all, personified the ethos of the religion and influenced many of my beliefs. Accordingly, my family and I are privileged to sponsor in her name the Yogi Jayanti celebrations every year in the Mandir.
The Swaminarayan Sanstha has given me many experiences and privileges including welcoming global Royalty, Sri Narendra Modi, several UK Prime Ministers, past and present, religious leaders and several distinguished guests. We were also chosen to celebrate the first and ongoing Diwalis in The House of Commons and 10 Downing Street.
Most importantly, it’s the lessons that we are taught. The Mandir has helped me and my family spiritually and provided us with balance, and the meaning of life.
