The Annual Sponsored Walk at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London
Sunday 10 July 2005 saw the Annual Sponsored Walk being held in the UK at BAPS Mandirs around the country in London, Leicester, Ashton, Preston, Birmingham, Wellingborough and Loughborough.
Inspired by His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, this year's walk was once again an outstanding success. Close to 2,000 participants walked for 10km in the glorious summer sunshine throughout the country. Walkers between the age of 7 and 90 participated.
The walk at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Neasden, London, commenced at 9am from the Ceremonial Gate of the Mandir with the performance of Vedic rituals in the presence of Atmaswarup Swami.
The route was stewarded by the BAPS volunteers and medical assistance was also provided. Arrangements for cold drinks and fruits were also made at rest points. The event was managed by over 100 volunteers.
Young boys and girls between the age of 4 and 7 also participated in their own mini-walk around the perimeters of the Mandir completing 11 rounds.
This year, participants contacted more than 50,000 people to obtain sponsorships. The funds raised from this year's Sponsored Walk will be used by BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha for their various charitable – social, cultural, moral, educational and humanitarian – activities.