CHINO HILLS: The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Chino Hills, Southern California, hosted a major interfaith and multicultural Diwali celebration, named ‘Sangam’, dedicated to fostering unity and cultural harmony. The high-profile gathering successfully drew a diverse group of attendees, including diplomats, faith leaders, academics, and community representatives from across the region, all centred on Diwali's universal themes: the victory of light over darkness and unity over division.
The event saw substantial representation from the diplomatic community, including Dr. K. J. Srinivasa, the inaugural Consul General of India in Los Angeles, who delivered opening remarks emphasising the power of such gatherings to build bridges. The diplomatic corps present included representatives from the Consulates of Armenia, El Salvador, Switzerland, Cambodia, and South Africa, alongside members of the LA28 Cultural Olympiad Committee. The focus on local community ties was equally prominent, beginning with a special land acknowledgment and prayer delivered by members of the Gabrieleno/Tongva San Gabriel Band of Mission Indians. This was followed by the reading of a message from California Governor Gavin Newsom, who extended Diwali greetings and praised the Mandir’s role in promoting unity.
Guests were given traditional hospitality and a tour of the intricately carved temple before the main gala, held outdoors against the backdrop of the illuminated Mandir. The formal programme featured heartfelt interfaith reflections from leaders representing the Sikh, Zoroastrian, Jain, Christian, Muslim, Buddhist, Hindu, and Indigenous faiths, followed by a traditional vegetarian thali meal.
The evening culminated in an inspiring video address from Paramtattvadas Swami of BAPS’s London Mandir, who urged continued global collaboration, particularly in the lead-up to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.