The Hindu New Year celebrations at the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Coventry were held this year on Sunday 26 October 2008. The celebrations were themed around Hinduism and preserving heritage, culture and values.
Over 120 items of food and drink formed the main Annakut which was held in the Mandir itself. Arranged in a marquee in the adjoining car park was an exhibition on Hinduism, a children’s play area, and stalls selling hot food and drinks as well as books and souvenirs.
The day commenced with thal at 11.30am followed by the first hourly arti at midday. Over 500 devotees and visitors came to the Mandir throughout the day. Several local dignitaries also visited, including councillors and the Deputy Lord Mayor of Coventry, Jack Harrison. In his brief address to the gathering, Cllr Harrison expressed his delight on visiting the Mandir for the first time and how Hindus as one of the many ethic communities in Coventry can “build friendships” with the other communities.
Cllr Ram Lakha praised BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha for its international humanitarian activities, and was in particular praise of Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi, describing it as “the eighth wonder of the World”.
The day concluded with a goodwill message from the Mandir coordinator, Pravinbhai Karia, then the last arti at 6.00pm, after which the volunteers arranged and distributed the prasad within the marquee for all to enjoy. |
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