In August 1995, His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj inaugurated BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London, creating history – it was the first traditional Hindu mandir of its kind in the western hemisphere – and crafting the future for thousands of worshippers and well-wishers.
Affectionately known as ‘London Mandir’ and ‘Neasden Temple’, this mandir continues to serve today as a place of devotion and learning, an internationally acclaimed architectural marvel, and a sanctuary of peace, harmony and community service.
To celebrate the 25th anniversary of this inspiring creation, a series of enlightening programmes has been planned for everyone to enjoy and share.
Krishna Janmashtami Celebrations
Wednesday 12 August 2020, 8.00pm BST
As with the Mandir Mahotsav in 1995, the Mandir’s 25th anniversary will commence with the Janmashtami festival, where swamis will explore the life and messages of Shri Krishna Bhagwan and reflect upon the beginning of the Mandir’s inspiring journey.
To participate from home, please see the instructions
here.
A report of the programme, with photo galleries and the webcast video, can be found
here.
Mahila Celebrations
Saturday 15 August 2020, 4.30pm BST
This colourful programme will explore and celebrate the inspirational sacrifices of women that made the Mandir possible and their continuing contributions over the last 25 years, revealing how and why women of all ages are an indispensable part of the Mandir’s past, present and future.
To participate from home, please see the instructions
here.
A report of the programme, with photo galleries and the webcast video, can be found
here.
Children’s Celebrations
Sunday 16 August 2020, 10.30am BST
Embark upon a thrilling journey of discovery through the eyes of a child and share the precious, eternal gifts that he uncovers – gifts that the Mandir has presented to children for the last 25 years.
To participate from home, please see the instructions
here.
A report of the programme, with photo galleries and the webcast video, can be found
here.
Pramukh Swami Maharaj Smruti Din
Sunday 16 August 2020, 4.30pm BST
Every room, passageway and corner of London Mandir is infused with unforgettable memories and inspiring moments with Pramukh Swami Maharaj. Eye-witness accounts and unseen footage from the past 25 years will bring alive once more the immeasurable bliss he showered upon the devotees of UK & Europe over his 19 visits.
To participate from home, please see the instructions
here.
A report of the programme, with photo galleries and the webcast video, can be found
here.
Online Family Vishwa Shanti Mahapuja
Saturday 22 August 2020, 3.00pm BST
This unique Vedic ceremony will be conducted from the shrines of London Mandir by resident swamis as we pray for peace, protection and prosperity for our families and the world. Instructions and explanations will also be available in English for everyone to follow.
The ‘Preparation Guidelines’ booklet, in both English and Gujarati, is accessible
here. For further instructions, please see
here.
Kirtan Aradhana
Sunday 23 August 2020, 8.00am BST
Swamis in London will perform a medley of thematic kirtans related to London Mandir during Mahant Swami Maharaj’s puja in Nenpur, India.
A report of the kirtan aradhana, with photo galleries and webcast videos, can be found
here.
Patotsav Ceremony
Sunday 23 August 2020, 9.30am BST
This special celebratory ceremony will be performed by swamis upon the sacred murtis of London Mandir, reaffirming our faith and devotion in the powerful presence of divinity invoked within them by Pramukh Swami Maharaj 25 years ago.
A report of the programme, with photo galleries and the webcast video, can be found
here.
Finale Celebrations
Sunday 23 August 2020, 3.30pm BST
An eye-opening and thrilling documentary-style production will explore the rich history and challenging creation of London Mandir and its profound, enduring impact on worshippers and visitors around the world. It will also reveal how we, too, can become a part of this divine legacy of Pramukh Swami Maharaj that continues to flourish today through the guidance and blessings of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj.
To participate as a family by decorating your ghar mandir and home, please see the resources
here.
The webcast video can be viewed
here.
Wherever you are in the world, join us through these special webcast programmes on
neasdentemple.org to honour and celebrate the history, values and contributions of one of Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s crowning creations – BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London.