BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London is especially known and respected for its multifarious community activities. Through the guidance and vision of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, and with the support of numerous of individuals and organisations, these activities have served the local community for many years.
A special 'Community Day' was organised on Tuesday 26 September 2017 to recognise these many supporters and well-wishers of the Mandir’s activities and to introduce them to His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj.
The event was attended by more than 150 distinguished guests, including public officers and prominent figures from various industries and backgrounds.
The guests enjoyed a guided tour of the Mandir before taking their seats in the evening assembly. The assembly began with bhajans. This was followed by a short video presentation which provided an overview of the Mandir’s activities.
Brahmaviharidas Swami addressed the gathering, drawing upon Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s life motto, “In the joy of others lies our own”, which has served as the inspiration for all of BAPS’s and the Mandir’s activities.
The spirit of service that worshippers and volunteers at the Mandir have embraced is highlighted in the BAPS Annual Challenge where almost 4,000 people of all ages and backgrounds across the country come together to raise valuable funds for a variety of worthy causes. This year’s Challenge raised £20,000 for Alzheimer’s Society – one the country’s largest charities fighting dementia, one of the country's biggest killers.
A cheque was presented to Tim McLachlan, Operations Director at Alzheimer’s Society. Addressing the assembly, Mr McLachlan said, “I would like to sincerely thank BAPS for choosing to support Alzheimer’s Society. Their fundraising events have seen people of all ages unite together from across the country to support us in the fight against dementia.
“The money raised by BAPS this year will play a vital role in our work, ensuring we can continue supporting people with dementia to live well, and invest in research so that, one day soon, we will find a cure.”
Anandswarup Swami provided a brief introduction of Mahant Swami Maharaj to the guests. Swamishri then addressed the assembly and emphasised that helping others begins with a thought, but creates a lasting impact when one’s intentions translate to positive actions. He also encouraged everyone to continue working together to serve society.
Guests were then offered a traditional Indian vegetarian dinner and presented with a memento of their visit to the Mandir before departing.