BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Leeds, celebrated Diwali and the Hindu New Year with a host of devotional festivities.
Hundreds of people of all ages and diverse backgrounds came together from across Leeds and beyond to celebrate the Hindu ‘Festival of Light’ with a vibrant blend of devotional ceremonies, traditional decorations, and cultural activities, creating an inspiring atmosphere of community, light, hope, and faith.
The Mandir was beautifully decorated with intricate rangoli patterns and colourful ornaments, reflecting the spirit of Diwali and adding to the vibrant celebratory atmosphere.
A special prayer ceremony (Sharda Pujan) was held during the evening to mark the last day of the year according to the Hindu lunar calendar. Devotees paid homage to Saraswati Devi, the Hindu deity of knowledge, the arts, and wisdom, and offered prayers for health, prosperity, and well-being for everyone ahead of the new year.
The highlight of the evening on Diwali was the spectacular fireworks display, lighting up the skies of north London with vibrant colours and sounds. The colourful celebration captivated both locals and visitors, symbolising the community spirit and joy that Diwali brings.
On Wednesday 22 October, the Mandir heralded the Hindu New Year with devotional music and traditional Hindu prayers from early morning.
The focus of the celebrations was the ‘annakut’, where hundreds of food dishes were lovingly prepared, artistically arranged, and devoutly offered to the deities by worshippers in the spirit of gratitude and reverence. The sanctified food was later distributed among devotees, volunteers, and visitors.
Across both Diwali and the Hindu New Year, visitors enjoyed a variety of delicious vegetarian street food, with stalls offering freshly made sweets, savoury snacks, and traditional delicacies, adding to the warm, festive atmosphere.