Open houses: social community events where curious minds venture into to be informed and exposed to the world within. At some events, parents of young children have the opportunity to meet with educators and experience a day-in-the-life of their child. At others, young couples looking to buy their first property have the chance to hop from one property to another until they find one to call home. No matter the circumstances, the purpose is the same, to welcome and allow members of the broader community to learn about the environment and the activities within. With this idea in mind, BAPS Mandirs across North America hosted BAPS Doors Open, welcoming their neighbors to experience its activities, traditions, and teachings.
The BAPS Doors Open program entailed an informative film introducing attendees to BAPS's Hindu roots, a booth sharing Indian classical instruments and dance, a station showcasing BAPS and BAPS Charities' vital work in areas such as educational services, humanitarian relief, environmental protection, health & wellness, and community empowerment, and an area for attendees to enjoy a taste of vegetarian Indian cuisine. Doors Open attendees also received a guided tour of the respective Mandir and learned about upcoming events.
Attendees consisted of first responders, neighbors, local businessmen and women, educators, local politicians as well as other residents that had not yet had the chance to visit the Mandir. The event fostered much-welcomed dialogue that allowed local devotees to highlight their Hindu values including, acceptance for all mankind and the importance of Mandirs in preserving values to pass onto future generations. Inspired by His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, BAPS's Doors Open event engaged the community through sharing various spiritual values and Mandir activities open to all.