On Saturday 20 September 2014, a Mahila Sammelan was organized at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Nairobi, on the theme “Flavors of India.” More than 1300 ladies came together to celebrate this festival.
The event’s aim was to bring people together in a celebration.
The morning consisted of competitions like decorations and rangoli, followed by a cultural program in the evening. The chief guest at the cultural program was Mrs. Alka Verma, wife of the Indian High Commissioner, and Hon. Miss Sanjiv Kaur Birdi, Nominated Minister of Parliament. The program included colorful dances from different states of India, including dances like the Lavani, Bhangra, Tipni, Garba, Raas, Gada dance, Bamboo dance, Bharatanatyam, Rajasthani folk dance, and others. The BAPS balikas, kishoris and yuvatis also performed a Bhakti Nrutya. A Shiv dhun was sung by African ladies from Art of Living.
The program concluded with an inspirational skit on the message that “We are united”. Many balikas, kishoris, yuvati and mahilas of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha and other faiths participated in the cultural program. The day’s events provided a deeper understanding of Indian culture.