BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London, welcomed friends and neighbours from the local community for a Coronation ‘Big Lunch’ on Sunday 7 May 2023.
The event formed part of the Mandir’s tributes to commemorate the historic coronation of His Majesty King Charles III and continued its longstanding commitment to community outreach activities.
The ‘Big Lunch’ is part of the official coronation celebrations and intended to be a “nationwide act of celebration and friendship”, which was enjoyed by millions of people across the country.
Councillors Muhammed Butt (Leader of Brent Council), Krupa Sheth, Rita Begum, Sunita Hirani and Tony Ethapemi, and GLA member Krupesh Hirani joined members from the local community at the Mandir to enjoy a selection of delicious vegetarian sweet and savoury snacks.
They also participated in various engaging activities with guests, including crafting an origami butterfly, which was subsequently placed on a canvas. This collaborative artwork created a beautiful representation of togetherness.
In keeping with the spirit of community harmony, other activities also conveyed a message on how, by bringing together individual skills and working together, individuals can make a more positive and impactful contribution.
Patrick, an attendee who has been living close to the Mandir for nearly 20 years, said, “You have made a fantastic impression on us [local residents]. We didn’t know it was going to happen in a beautiful marquee. We thank you so much for everything.”
Neepa Patel, one of the volunteers of the event, shared, “It was wonderful to celebrate the historic Coronation of His Majesty with so many people from our local community. Sharing a meal also provided an ideal opportunity to share values and strengthen how we can work together to serve the community – values that are shared by His Majesty.”