BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Chigwell, hosted an inspiring event on Friday 1 March 2024 in which more than 30 representatives from diverse Hindu temples, communities and associations from the East London and Essex area gathered, accompanied by around 50 other guests. The event was inspired by Mahant Swami Maharaj’s vision, “In the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, let’s reach out and expand the circle of global harmony.” In keeping with this vision, this event provided a forum for members of the community to meet each other and understand how the different organisations could support each other to better serve their congregations and the wider community going forward.
Children from the Mandir began the evening with a recital of Vedic peace prayers. A video of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj’s blessings, emphasising the power of working selflessly in peace and harmony, was shared to reinforce the key message of the event. This was followed by introductions and reflections on how the community can work together by representatives of the various Hindu temples and organisations, building a strong platform for ongoing dialogue.
Darshan Karia, one of the BAPS volunteers involved in organising the event, reflected, “It was a privilege to host this fruitful and inspiring evening. It brought together members of the Hindu community from Newham in East London to Chelmsford in Essex. It allowed us to forge new relationships and strengthen existing ones. We are grateful to all the guests and leaders of the local Hindu community for their support, we commend them on the wonderful work they have been doing for years, and we look forward to continue serving closely with them all.”