On 20 August 1995, His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj inaugurated the first traditional Hindu mandir outside of India in Neasden, London. Since then, it has welcomed millions of visitors from across the UK and many countries of the world, who have been inspired by its profound sense of peace and spirituality.
The 22nd anniversary of the Mandir was celebrated on Sunday 20 August 2017 with a host of devotional festivities.
Sadhus began the ‘patotsav’ with a Vedic ceremony in the morning. It marks the anniversary of the Mandir’s opening and the calendric day that its murtis were first infused with the divine presence of God.
The festivities included an opportunity for devotees and visitors to take part in the ritual bathing of Nilkanth Varni throughout the day, and observe the traditional offering of food (‘annakut’) arranged artistically before the deities in the main shrines as an offering of thanksgiving.
A mahapuja praising God and seeking his blessings for continued peace and well-being in the world was organised in the afternoon.
A special evening assembly was held inside the Haveli in the presence of visiting sadhus from India. Youths began the programme with devotional singing. Sadhus then alluded to the support and inspiration that a mandir provides to individuals, families and society as well as its positive impact on the wider nation. Their discourses were supported with touching examples and testimonies.
BAPS mandirs enjoy a history that was initiated by Bhagwan Swaminarayan almost 200 years ago. A scriptural discourse on Bhagwan Swaminarayan’s childhood life provided an insight into his divine personality and his universal compassion.
Worshippers also rekindled fond memories of the Mandir with His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj through a special video presentation.
