Diwali at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in London – the ‘Neasden Temple’ – is an iconic community celebration, reinforcing charity, goodwill, family values and the love of God. These traditions were joyously celebrated on Wednesday 11 November 2015 where worshippers and visitors experienced the colours and rich culture of the Hindu faith.
Avani Patel, a volunteer at the Mandir, explains: “Diwali at the Mandir [Neasden Temple] is a really special time and I enjoy taking part as well as volunteering here every year. As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of this Mandir, it is an even greater moment to share the happiness and messages of friendship and goodwill with friends, family and so many people from the local community.”
This year, the event will also mark the Hindu Festival of Light in support of the UN’s ‘International Year of Light’.
A special evening ceremony was conducted for home and business owners in the presence of senior sadhu, Sadguru Pujya Swayamprakash Swami (Doctor Swami), where business-owners closed existing account books and open new ones in preparation for the year ahead, and in doing so, also reflected on their spiritual relationship with God.
The grand finale was enjoyed through a spectacular fireworks display at 8.30pm in Gibbons Park, across the road from the Mandir. Local councillors Muhammed Butt, and Krupa Sheth, joined the large crowds who had gathered for the vibrant fusion of sound and colour.
The Hindu New Year began on 12 November 2015 with prayers for peace and prosperity across the world. Visitors to the Mandir also witnessed the Annakut – literally, ‘mountain of food’ – made in thanksgiving to God for his providence over the year past and the year to come. The hundreds of varieties of pure vegetarian food, all artistically arranged, is the largest such devotional offering in Europe.
Continuing the theme of thanksgiving for the New Year, children collected funds for the BBC’s ‘Children in Need’ campaign. The young volunteers engaged enthusiastically with visitors, encouraging all to donate generously. One of the collectors, Kirtan Patel (11), shared, “The Mandir has taught me to think of people less fortunate than ourselves. This campaign gives me a great opportunity to do something positive and make a difference to others.”
