This year a new Swaminarayan Akshar Purushottam Mandir will open on the grounds of Anoopam Mission in Denham. There has been a mandir here for over 25 years. Set in 14 acres of land, the building used to be an old peoples home. When the site was put up for sale, the young Anoopam Mission bought the site, with their Guru, Pujya Sahebji’s guidance. However, the buildings were run down, the grounds were in a terrible state and there were sitting tenants.
In spite of the difficulties, Santo and devotees over a period of six months worked together every single evening to bring the property and grounds to a livable state. They poured their heart into it and the whole area was transformed. The building became a mandir and the first Marble murtis of Shree Akshar Purushottam Maharaj were installed and consecrated on 23 March 1989.
Since then, a community of devotees arose, and Pujya Sahebji has guided and nurtured. The first time that he came to the UK, in 1973, he had said that an international centre will arise here, and today this vision is being realized. It has come with hard work and a large dose of faith.
Anoopam Mission is situated on Green Belt land. The laws are strict and getting planning permission was an arduous journey, taking over 7 years. At that time, Pinewood Studios, who fall under the jurisdiction of the same Council, had also applied, but were rejected in spite of the great financial and economical benefits their development promised to the area. With this news, it seemed impossible that the temple would get permission. However, as the saying goes, God works in mysterious ways, and Pujya Sahebji said to devotees, you must pray harder and God will take his seat here. Planning permission was finally received!
The new mandir project began with great enthusiasm, and within ten months, the first phase of this community facility, which comprises of the temple and administrative buildings is approaching completion! The new Temple Opening and the Murti Praan Pratishtha will take place in August 2015, and a wonderful programme of events are lined up. The auspicious start will take place with the Shrimad Bhagavat Katha by Pujya Bhaishri Rameshbhai Oza from 5 August to 12 August 2015.
Pujya Bhaishri returns to the UK after many years and there is an air of excitement on the part of all devotees. Following the katha there are numerous programmes lined up, leading to the climax on Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 August when there will be a Maha-Yagna, Shobha Yatra and the crowning occasion of the Murti Praan Pratishtha! This occasion is for all Hindus to come together and enjoy satsang together.
A free shuttle service will run from Hillingdon station, and facilities have been made for coach and car parking. Additionally on this occasion anyone wishing to become a yajmaan is most welcome! For more contact Surendrabhai Patel on 07941 975 311, or Vinubhai Nakarja on 07956 594 963.
