Nestled atop the western slopes of the great dividing ranges, the city of Toowoomba, the second largest inland city in Australia, welcomed its first Hindu Mandir, celebrating the values of multiculturalism, diversity and faith in this regional city of Queensland.
On 11 and 12 March, the inauguration of the BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir, Toowoomba, was celebrated with traditional ceremonial rituals attended by approximately 1,000 devotees, well-wishers and community leaders, and all eight resident BAPS sadhus in Australia.
On 11 March, a colorful and vibrant nagar yatra (procession) of the sacred images of the deities and gurus took place in Queens Park.
On 12 March, community members from Toowoomba and across Australia witnessed the Vedic inauguration ceremony of the new mandir. Mr. David Jantezki, a Queensland member of the legislative assembly, spoke highly of how the addition of a Hindu Mandir in the beautiful city will significantly add to the multicultural fabric of the region. Cr James was also present with his family on both days.