• Friday, March 29, 2024

Results for "baps"

Akshata spotted with parents, kids in Bengaluru

Akshata Murty, wife of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, and daughter of prominent industrialist couple, Narayan and Sudha Murthy was spotted in the Indian city of Bengaluru with her family. She was seen casually roaming around in an area, Raghvendra Mutt with her parents and her daughters Anoushka and Krishna. She…

Abu Dhabi Hindu temple to open for public on March…

THE first Hindu stone temple in Abu Dhabi, which was inaugurated by prime minister Narendra Modi earlier this month, will be opened to the public from Friday (1), according to the temple authorities. The temple has been built by the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) on a 27-acre…

Nasa’s Odysseus mission honours Hindu spiritual leader Pramukh Swami Maharaj

Nasa's Odysseus spacecraft, part of the private IM-1 mission, is on its voyage to the Moon, bearing a special tribute to the revered Hindu guru Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the fifth spiritual leader of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, media reports said. This homage is manifested in an etching developed by Relative…

‘Historic moment’: Akshay Kumar on inauguration of BAPS Hindu Mandir

Actor Akshay Kumar, who attended the inauguration of Abu Dhabi's first Hindu stone temple on Wednesday, says he was "blessed" to be part of the ceremony. The BAPS Hindu Mandir, which was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has been built using ancient architectural methods clubbed with scientific techniques. Kumar…

Indian expats from across the globe volunteer at Abu Dhabi…

A pregnant technology professional residing in Sydney, a couple from Boston, and a school teacher from the UK were among the numerous Indian expats from around the around who travelled to the UAE last year. Their journey aimed to participate in seva (service) at the first Hindu stone temple under…

Shankar Mahadevan, Madhur Bhandarkar attend BAPS Mandir inauguration

Musician Shankar Mahadevan and filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar on Wednesday attended the inauguration of Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Mandir in Abu Dhabi. After attending the ceremony, Bhandarkar said that it is a proud moment for all the Indians. "It was great & there was a lot of excitement. Everyone-…

Harmony in stone

IN the dynamic landscape of international relations, the influence of non-state actors, including transnational religious organisations, plays a crucial role in shaping a nation’s global standing. India, with its rich tapestry of religious diversity, has witnessed the emergence and growth of various such organisations that contribute significantly to the country’s…

Ashok Kotecha: “The temple project will bring civilisational change”

ASHOK KOTECHA, the chairman of the BAPS Hindu Mandir, has been a key figure in the herculean effort that went into the construction of the Abu Dhabi BAPS Mandir. Kotecha’s decades-long association with the Mandir dates back to the visit of HH Pramukh Swami Maharaj to the UAE on April…

A lotus blooms in the desert

THE Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, UAE, is envisioned as a Spiritual Oasis for Global Harmony. Rooted in the aspiration to promote love, harmony, and tolerance, the fundamental ethos of the mandir transcends borders. Each carving within the mandir tells compelling stories of…

Modi inaugurates BAPS Mandir, first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi

The Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi was inaugurated by India’s prime minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (14) amid devotional chants and in the presence of spiritual leaders of the Swaminarayan sect. #WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi to inaugurate the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan…

A lasting, green structure

INSPIRED by the sheer beauty of a lotus in the desert, the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi seamlessly blends ancient architectural principles with modern technology. Crafted from pink sandstone and white marble, the mandir diverges from conventional building materials such as iron, steel or reinforced concrete. Guided by…

New temple a symbol of unity

IN the heart of Abu Dhabi, amid the modern skyline of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), stands the BAPS Hindu Mandir, a remarkable testament to the harmonious coexistence of diverse cultures in a globalised world. Beyond its architectural grandeur and spiritual significance, this temple holds a unique place in history,…

EXCLUSIVE – Swami Brahmavihari: ‘Harmony is the way forward’

SWAMI BRAHMAVIHARIDAS is one of the most respected and admired of Swaminarayan figures who lead the global organisation that is BAPS today. He has led the project to build the spectacular Akshardham Temple in Abu Dhabi since its conception. In this exclusive and very special interview with Shailesh R Solanki,…

Modi arrives in Abu Dhabi to inaugurate first Hindu temple…

INDIA’S prime minister Narendra Modi arrived in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Tuesday (13) on a two-day visit, which will include the inauguration of the first Hindu stone temple in Abu Dhabi. This is Modi’s seventh visit to the UAE since 2015. In his statement before his departure, Modi…

Ganga and Yamuna holy water, Rajasthan sandstone to grace Abu…

Holy water from the Rivers Ganga and Yamuna, pink sandstone from Rajasthan, furniture made from wooden trunks used to transport stones from India - the first Hindu stone temple in Abu Dhabi has been built with contributions from different parts of India. Temple authorities said the place of worship features…

Ugandan Asians invited to ‘invest in their motherland’

UGANDA’S president, Yoweri Museveni, has appealed to British Asians expelled by Idi Amin more than half a century ago to “build a living bridge between their newfound homes in the United Kingdom and the cherished homeland of their forefathers”. His emotional message was aimed at some 30,000 refugees – and…

Ambassadors and diplomats from 42 countries visit Abu Dhabi’s BAPS…

In a remarkable display of intercultural solidarity, the Indian Embassy in the UAE hosted a special gathering on January 29, 2024, at the 27-acre construction site of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi. The event, attended by representatives from 42 nations, aimed to deepen mutual understanding and respect among…

Neasden Temple participates in worldwide BAPS celebrations for Ayodhya’s Ram…

Guided by His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in London, commonly known as 'Neasden Temple,' united with nearly 60 BAPS mandirs and centres across the UK and Europe in a global BAPS homage to honour the inauguration of the new Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, a press release…

Rajnath Singh starts UK tour with visit to Gandhi memorial

INDIA’s defence minister Rajnath Singh arrived in London on Monday (8) for a three-day visit focusing on the India-UK defence partnership as well as security and industrial cooperation. Singh has been accompanied by a Ministry of Defence delegation comprising officials from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Service Headquarters,…

Modi to inaugurate BAPS temple in Abu Dhabi

PRIME MINISTER Narendra Modi has accepted an invitation to inaugurate the Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi in February next year, the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha said in a statement. Swami Ishwarcharandas, Swami Brahmaviharidas and other BAPS representatives visited the prime minister at his New Delhi residence to extend an invitation for…

His Excellency Dr Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili visits BAPS, Abu…

His Excellency Dr Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Chairman of the Department of Community Development, His Excellency Mohamed Al Balooshi, and senior officials of the DCD, received a traditional welcome at the BAPS Hindu Mandir. Their visit started with a detailed presentation outlining the Mandir's progress. After a joint ceremony showering…

Capitol Hill joins Indian American community for Diwali

BAPS Public Affairs and several partner organisations, including the Hindu American Foundation (HAF), the Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA), Shrimad Rajchandra Mission Dharampur, Federation of Jain Associations in North America (JAINA), the American Jewish Committee (AJC), the U.S. Indian Community Foundation, the U.S. India Security Council Inc, and the…

Starmer visits Neasden Temple to celebrate Diwali

Keir Starmer, Leader of the Labour Party, visited BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir (Neasden Temple) in North West London to partake in the Diwali festival on Monday (13). During this busy period, the Labour Leader received a guided tour from senior swamis and trustees, interacting with volunteers supporting the temple as…

BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham a tribute to ethos of service

“SEE, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone, a sure foundation; the one who believes will never be shaken” (Isaiah 28:16). What compels humans to see god in stone and to build majestic stone abodes for the divine? If marble stones could speak, they would…

BAPS Mandir in Abu Dhabi stands thanks to generosity of…

The upcoming Akshardham temple in Abu Dhabi, the Middle East's first endeavour of its kind, stands as a testament to the generosity of the United Arab Emirates rulers, said the head of the ambitious project. Swami Brahmaviharidas, overseeing the temple's construction on behalf of the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha…

‘New Akshardham temple will bring communities together’

ONE of the largest Hindu temples in the world was inaugurated at the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Jersey, Robbinsville. Spread over 185 acres, it is said to represent India’s heritage and culture in modern America. Revered saint, His Holiness Pujya Mahant Swami Maharaj, led the dedication ceremony of Akshardham…

BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Jersey inaugurated

The Swaminarayan Akshardham in Robbinsville, New Jersey was inaugurated on Sunday, October 8, 2023, marking a remarkable achievement by over 12,500 volunteers across the US who dedicated millions of hours to build the temple. The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Akshardham stands as the largest Hindu temple outside India in the modern…

New Jersey Akshardham hosts United Nations delegation

BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham hosted a distinguished delegation comprising ambassadors and representatives from the United Nations on October 7, 2023, a gathering that took place in anticipation of the grand dedication ceremony scheduled for Saturday, October 8, 2023. As part of the week-long celebrations, this significant event brought together leaders from…

BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham celebrates ‘community’ in New Jersey

The theme "Celebrating Community" was embraced at BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham, New Jersey on October 5, 2023, to honour the unity and relationships cultivated within diverse communities across America. The event was part of the nine-day inaugural ceremonies known as Akshardham Mahotsav that continue to celebrate the mahamandir and the universal…

New Jersey Akshardham celebrates Murti Pratishtha ceremony

The nine-day inaugural ceremonies, Akshardham Mahamandir of BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in Robbinsville, New Jersey which commenced on September 30 will commemorate the essential elements of the grand temple and the universal values that form its foundation. Thus, on October 4, 2023, a momentous event took place at the temple, as…

Modi and Sunak send wishes for Akshardham inauguration in New…

From September 30, the dedication celebrations of BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in Robbinsville, New Jersey, have commenced, spanning a nine-day celebration in the presence of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj.  Leaders, including heads of state worldwide, have expressed their support. India's prime minister Narendra Modi and prime minister Rishi Sunak have…

BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in US to be inaugurated in October

In a recent spiritual gathering that spanned over three months, the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in Robbinsville, New Jersey, became a hub of profound spiritual fervour during the "Festival of Inspirations." The culmination of this festival will be the inauguration of the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham, a Hindu mandir and campus in…

Neasden Temple celebrates Krishna Janmashtami

THE BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in London, popularly known as Neasden Temple, celebrated Krishna Janmashtami (birth celebrations of Lord Krishna) with a host of devotional festivities on 7 September, a statement said. Devotees and visitors arrived at the temple throughout the day to offer prayers and respects as well as…

Sunak visits BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham temple in Delhi

Prime minister Rishi Sunak, accompanied by his wife Akshata Murthy, visited BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi, on Sunday (10) as part of their official trip to the city for the G20 summit. They were warmly welcomed in a traditional Hindu manner symbolising goodwill and friendship. Sunak was then greeted…

Kalash Pujan marks landmark occasion for BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham

On the morning of August 30, 2023, a significant milestone was achieved in the making of the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in Robbinsville, New Jersey. The auspicious occasion, Kalash Pujan of the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham, took place in the presence of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, the spiritual leader of BAPS…

Praful Patel: Pioneer paved the way for Ugandan Asians

PRAFUL PATEL, who has died in Mumbai, aged 84, made a startling claim about the Ugandan Asian crisis in his last interview with Eastern Eye. He revealed that the British government was aware that Idi Amin was planning to expel Uganda’s entire Asian population before the African dictator made his…

Modi views model of Swaminarayan temple in South Africa

PRIME minister Narendra Modi viewed a model of the under-construction Swaminarayan temple in Johannesburg on Tuesday (22). The temple at North Riding, north of Johannesburg, has been under construction since 2017 and is expected to be completed next year. Modi viewed the model while participating in a community event ahead…

Swami Brahmaviharidas updates Modi on BAPS’ activities

SWAMI Brahmaviharidas of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha briefed Indian prime minister Narednra Modi about major activities organised by the spiritual organisation across the world. During their 30-minute meeting in New Delhi, he updated Modi on the ongoing 'Festival of Inspirations' at the Sanstha’s Akshardham temple in Robbinsville, New Jersey. He…

Khalistan supporters vandalise another Hindu temple in Canada

In Canada's British Columbia province, a notable temple has fallen victim to vandalism carried out by two individuals expressing support for Khalistan. The temple was vandalised with "anti-Hindu and anti-India graffiti," marking the latest occurrence in a series of incidents targeting Hindu places of worship within the country. The incident…

BAPS leaders update Modi on Paris temple construction

LEADERS of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) met Indian prime minister Narendra Modi in Paris recently to apprise him of the progress made in the construction of a Hindu temple in the French capital. The Sanstha, an India-headquartered socio-spiritual organisation, is constructing what is set to become mainland Europe’s first…

HE Sheikh Nahayan Mubarak Al Nahayan welcomes BAPS delegation in…

Brahmaviharidas Swami, along with other BAPS swamis and volunteers, received a warm welcome from HE Sheikh Nahayan Mubarak Al Nahayan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, at his private Royal Majlis in Abu Dhabi. During the half-hour meeting, the focus was on the ongoing work, inauguration ceremony, and global impact of…

Justin Trudeau visits BAPS temple in Toronto

CANADA’S prime minister Justin Trudeau last week visited the BAPS temple in Toronto to celebrate its golden jubilee anniversary. In a message on Twitter, he said, “For 50 years, BAPS has been an important part of the Canadian family. This afternoon, we joined members of the @BAPS_Toronto community to celebrate…

Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan calls on Swami Brahmaviharidas…

His Highness Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the United Arab Emirates, warmly hosted a meeting with Swami Brahmaviharidas, BAPS saints, and volunteers at his private palace in Abu Dhabi. The meeting, lasting an hour, delved into various significant international matters…

BAPS Hindu Mandir testament to power of cultural diplomacy: Indian…

In a recent interview, S Jaishankar, the minister of external affairs of India explained the profound significance of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, UAE. For him, this architectural marvel transcends being a mere symbol of India's ancient civilization; it embodies thousands of years of culture, wisdom, creativity, and…

Ambassadors from more than 30 nations visit BAPS Hindu Mandir…

Ambassadors from more than 30 nations visited the construction site of the BAPS Hindu Mandir Abu Dhabi. Ashok Kotecha, Yogesh Mehta, Chirag Patel, Pranav Desai and the dedicated directors and volunteers overseeing the mandir's construction welcomed more than 85 guests, a statement said. Indian ambassador to the UAE, Sunjay Sudhir,…

London mayor visits Neasden Temple to meet His Holiness Mahant…

London Mayor Sadiq Khan met prominent Hindu spiritual leader, His Holiness (HH) Pujya Mahant Swami Maharaj, who is currently visiting the UK to inspire faith, service, and global harmony, at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in north London on Sunday (21). During their meeting, the mayor thanked HH Pujya Mahant…

Mahant Swami Maharaj leads coronation tribute to King Charles III…

Mahant Swami Maharaj led tributes to celebrate the historic Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London on Saturday, (06) a press release informed. Jitu Patel, Chair of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha UK, was also invited along with other senior faith leaders to greet the…

Sydney’s BAPS Swaminarayan Temple vandalised by anti-India Khalistani group

Anti-social elements vandalised the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Rosehill, Sydney, on Friday (5) with anti-India graffiti and a Khalistani flag hanging on the gate. It is the latest incident in a series of attacks on Hindu temples in Australia ahead of Indian prime minister Narendra Modi's visit later this…

BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha chief begins five-week trip to UK

A prominent Indian spiritual leader is on a five-week visit to the UK to promote “global harmony.” His Holiness Pujya Mahant Swami Maharaj, who heads the spiritual organisation BAPS (Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha), will participate in various programmes during his trip which began on Tuesday (2). Pujya Mahant…

Bollywood Star Akshay Kumar visits the BAPS Hindu Mandir in…

Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar, Indian film producer Vashu Bhagnani, and businessman Jiten Doshi recently visited the site of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi. The group was greeted by Swami Brahmaviharidas, the head of BAPS Hindu Mandir, who garlanded them with flowers, a press release informed. As they were…

Ram Navami, Swaminarayan birth anniversary celebrated at Neasden temple

Various ceremonies marked the Hindu festival of Ram Navami and the jayanti (birth anniversary) of spiritual leader Swaminarayan at the Neasden temple in London. Devotees and well-wishers visited the temple - also known as BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir - throughout the day on March 30 to attend religious and spiritual…

Vinu Bhattessa receives OBE from King Charles

Charity supporter and hotelier Vinu Bhattessa has received the OBE from King Charles III at Windsor Castle last month. He was awarded the OBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours List for 2022. A longstanding trustee of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha in the UK, Bhattessa OBE has been serving BAPS for almost…

BAPS celebrates International Women’s Day with ‘Save, Sustain & Shine’…

The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, based at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, also popularly known as the ‘Neasden Temple’ in London, observed International Women's Day (IWD) by hosting an inspiring conference on Sunday (12). The organisation's celebration of IWD (celebrated on 8th March every year) demonstrates its ongoing commitment to women…

Swami Brahmaviharidas meets Modi to express gratitude

THE head of Abu Dhabi's BAPS Hindu Mandir, Swami Brahmaviharidas, has visited Narendra Modi in New Delhi to express gratitude on behalf of HH Mahant Swami Maharaj and BAPS worldwide for inaugurating the centenary celebrations of Pramukh Swami Maharaj. The celebrations were attended by over 12.1 million people from across…

US stresses on religious pluralism condemns attack on Hindu temples

According to Ned Price, spokesperson for the US Department of State, Washington denounces all forms of violence and extremism. He emphasised that religious diversity is one of America's fundamental principles and condemned any group that aims to execute actions with a different vision. In regards to a query regarding threats…

Canada: Consulate General of India condemns defacing of Ram Mandir…

Consulate General of India in Toronto on Tuesday (local time) condemned the defacing of Ram Mandir in Mississauga with anti-India graffiti. It requested Canadian authorities to investigate the incident and take prompt action against the perpetrators. "We strongly condemn the defacing of Ram Mandir in Mississauga with anti-India graffiti. We…

Indian High Commissioner to Australia discusses Indian community’s concerns over…

Indian High Commissioner to Australia Manpreet Vohra on Sunday paid his respects at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Melbourne, and discussed the community's concerns over the temple's recent vandalisation. The violence witnessed in Melbourne on Sunday was also discussed. "Paid respects today at the sacred BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir…

Brawl breaks out over Khalistan referendum in Australia; India raises…

Two people were injured and as many Sikh men were detained when two separate brawls broke out between Khalistani activists and pro-India demonstrators here during the so-called 'Punjab independence referendum', the police said on Monday. India has already asked the Australian government to curb the anti-India activities of the Khalistani…

Third Hindu temple vandalised in Australia’s Melbourne with anti-India graffiti

A third Hindu temple was vandalised with anti-India graffiti in Melbourne's Albert Park on Monday, days after Shri Shiva Vishnu Temple in Carrum Downs was vandalised, The Australia Today reported. The management of Melbourne's International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) temple also known as the Hare Krishna Temple found the…

‘We have been shocked at vandalism of two Hindu temples…

Australia's High Commissioner to India Barry O'Farrell AO on Friday said that Australia is shocked at the vandalism of two Hindu temples in Melbourne, and authorities are investigating the same. India on Thursday condemned the vandalization of Hindu temples in Australia and said that the matter has been raised with…

India raised vandalization of Hindu temples with the Australian govt,…

India condemned the vandalization of Hindu temples in Australia and said that the matter has been raised with the Australian government in Canberra and asked for expeditious investigation against the perpetrators. Responding to a media query regarding the vandalization and graffiti being written on Hindu temples, Ministry of External Affairs…

Pramukh Swami Maharaj centenary: More than 12m pay tributes during…

His Holiness (HH) Pramukh Swami Maharaj (1921-2016), the fifth spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, was on Sunday (15) given a grand devotional tribute in the closing ceremony of his centenary celebrations in India in the divine presence of HH Mahant Swami Maharaj, his spiritual successor. In the month-long festival, more…

Australia: Shri Shiva Vishnu Temple vandalised with anti-Hindu graffiti

The Shri Shiva Vishnu Temple in Australia's Carrum Downs has been vandalised with anti-Hindu graffiti. This has left Australia's Indian-Australian community in shock, The Australia Today reported. This comes a week after the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Australia's Mill Park was smeared with anti-India and anti-Hindu graffiti. The act came…

Hindu temple in Melbourne defiled with anti-India graffiti by Khalistan…

A Hindu temple in Australia has been vandalised apparently by Khalistan supporters in a global pattern of targeting the places of worship of the religious group. The walls of the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Melbourne were on Thursday found defaced with graffiti calling for 'death to India' and comparing Indian…

King Charles III greets BAPS community amid Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s…

British King Charles III on Sunday (8) gave a special message to the BAPS (Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha) community as it celebrates the birth centenary of His Holiness (HH) Pramukh Swami Maharaj (1921-2916). In his message which was tweeted by UK in India, the King said, "As you commemorate…

Keir Starmer lauds Pramukh Swami Maharaj & BAPS for inspiring…

British opposition leader Sir Keir Starmer on Friday (6) lauded former BAPS (Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha) guru and president Pramukh Swami Maharaj (1921-2016) whose birth centenary celebrations are currently underway in India saying the spiritual leader had built more than 1,200 temples and the effort has been recognised across…

New Year honours: Professor Partha Dasgupta leads British Asian recognition…

A Cambridge professor who is a leading global figure in the economics of the natural environment, Professor Sir Partha Sarathi Dasgupta; COP-26 president Alok Sharma and drinks company Diageo’s CEO Ivan Menezes are among prominent Asians who have been recognised in the New Year Honour’s List published late last Friday…

Tributes pour in as Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s centennial birth anniversary…

The centennial birth anniversary of His Holiness (HH) Pramukh Swami Maharaj (1921-2016) was observed at a special commemorative event in the UK parliament on Monday (19). The occasion saw the presence of a number of dignitaries, including the virtual presence of prime minister Rishi Sunak. At the centennial celebration, special…

Mega events mark first week of centennial celebration of Pramukh…

Many events were held during the first week of centennial celebration of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The grand centennial celebration was inaugurated by prime minister Narendra Modi and His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj on December 14. The celebration will continue through January 15, 2023, and each…

Modi hails Pramukh Swami Maharaj as reformer as he launches…

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (14) hailed BAPS leader Pramukh Swami Maharaj as a reformer who devoted his life to selfless service of others and recalled his long association with the late saint, who he said, treated him like a son. Recalling his conversation with Pramukh Swami Maharaj when…

UN special assembly to mark centenary of Pramukh Swami Maharaj

The permanent mission of India to the UN and the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha will celebrate His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s centenary at the UN in New York on Wednesday (7). The one-and-a-half-hour-long special programme titled ‘The World is One Family: Life and Message of Pramukh Swami Maharaj’ will combine live…

PM Modi to inaugurate Pramukh Swami Maharaj centenary fest in…

The five year-long centennial celebrations around the globe will culminate in the final, month-long, grand celebrations in Ahmedabad in the western Indian state of Gujarat between December 15, 2022, and January 15, 2023. The festivity, which is expected to attract several thousands of followers of the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan…

Indian home minister Amit Shah meets Mahant Swami Maharaj in…

Indian home minister Amit Shah on Wednesday (30) visited the BAPS Yogiji Maharaj Hospital in Ahmedabad in the western state of Gujarat to receive the blessings of Param Pujya Mahant Swami Maharaj. Shah, who arrived around 5.10 pm local time, was garlanded and welcomed by Swami Maharaj in the presence…

New world record ‘baked’ at BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Sydney

The BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir has made it to the Australian book of records by baking the world's largest eggless cake. Taking to Twitter, the American High Commissioner to India, Barry O'Farrell AO, shared the news and wrote, "In a world first, #Sydney's BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir has made it to the…

‘We feel like a community that is under siege’: 180…

Several British Indian organisations have collectively urged prime minister Liz Truss to ensure security for the Hindu community which is “living in a state of fear” following the recent violence in the country. Some 180 entities, including the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Sanstha UK, said the Hindus “feel like a community…

Ex-India envoy blames ‘Khalistani terrorists’ for vandalisation of Hindu sites…

Former Indian Deputy Envoy to Canada Niraj Srivastava on Monday blamed "Khalistani terrorists" for the vandalisation of Shri Bhagavad Gita Park sign in Canada's Brampton on Saturday, saying that such incidents have happened in the past too. "This is not the first time such a hate crime has occurred in…

India terms vandalism of Bhagvad Gita park in Toronto a…

Canadian authorities have denied any vandalism at a recently unveiled park named 'Shri Bhagavad Gita' in Brampton city and clarified that the reported blank sign was left during the repair work, hours after India condemned the incident and urged the city administration to take prompt action. The park – previously…

Anti-India graffiti by Canadian Khalistani extremists on Swaminarayan temple in…

A prominent Hindu temple has been defaced by “Canadian Khalistani extremists” here with anti-India graffiti in an apparent hate crime, prompting the Indian mission here to condemn the incident and urge authorities to take swift action against the perpetrators. The time of the incident at the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, Toronto…

Tributes paid to ‘visionary and pioneer’

POLITICIANS, faith and community leaders paid tribute to Parvatiben Solanki, the cofounder of the Asian Media Gr oup (AMG), publishers of Eastern Eye and Garavi Gujarat. Mrs Solanki passed away in London last Thursday (8). She was 86. Along with her husband, the late Ramniklal Solanki CBE, Mrs Solanki played…

Queen’s love for India shared by new King: British Indians…

Queen Elizabeth II’s love for India and the Commonwealth, shared by her son and successor King Charles III, were the recurring themes as Indian-origin members of Parliament, peers and diaspora groups paid tribute to the late monarch. In special sittings of the Houses of Parliament over the past few days…

Foundation stone-laying ceremony of BAPS temple, called ‘architectural masterpiece’, held…

A historic foundation stone-laying ceremony of a new Hindu temple being constructed by BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha – an international socio-spiritual organisation affiliated to the UN -- was held in Bussy-Saint-Georges near Paris, France, on September 3 and 4. Yann Dubosc, mayor of Bussy-Saint-Georges; His Excellency (HE) Jawed Ashraf, ambassador of…

Thousands to join Diwali celebrations in Wembley Park on 1…

Thousands are expected to participate in Diwali celebrations to be held in Wembley Park on 1 October, a statement said. The free-to-attend family event will include a wide range of dance and musical performances from the Brent community, food options and a parade of lanterns designed and made by local…

Dr S Jaishankar appreciates BAPS Hindu Mandir: ‘Symbol of peace,…

On the auspicious day of Ganesh Chaturthi, India's external affairs minister Dr S. Jaishankar visited the BAPS Hindu Mandir site in Abu Dhabi. He was accompanied by an esteemed delegation of senior officials from the Ministry of External Affairs, including the Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra, Ambassador Sanjay Sudhir, Joint…

India’s Foreign Minister S Jaishankar visits under construction first Hindu…

External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar who is on a three-day visit to United Arab Emirates (UAE) visited the under-construction Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi said to be the first traditional temple in the Arabian Peninsula and expressed his happiness over its "rapid progress." On Wednesday, Jaishankar visited the site of…

Foundation Ceremony of Architectural Masterpiece for Cultural Harmony in France

BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) – an international socio-spiritual organisation affiliated to the UN and with major centres in London, New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, New Delhi, Nairobi, Abu Dhabi and Sydney – is beginning work on its next major project, in Paris.  The foundation stone-laying ceremony for what has been…

Pramukh Swami Maharaj Shatabdi Grand Finale Celebrations UK & Europe

The grand finale celebrations of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s centennial birth anniversary in the UK and Europe were held in the presence of Anandswarupdas Swami – a senior swami visiting from India – on the weekend of 27-28 August 2022 at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London. The celebrations were…

Blackpool Tower lit up in red and white to honour…

One of the most famous landmarks in Lancashire was lit up in red and white to mark the centennial birth anniversary of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj. Prayers were offered at the base of Blackpool Tower before it was lit up on Monday (8). A procession was also held along…

BAPS Mandir celebrates Raksha Bandhan in Abu Dhabi

Raksha Bandhan, a Hindu festival that signifies the bond between brothers and sisters, was recently celebrated at the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi. Handmade 'rakhis' or sacred threads were offered to more than 4,000 blue-collar expat workers during a special prayer led by temple chief Pujya Swami Brahmaviharidas. The…

More than 75,000 enjoy ‘Festival of Inspiration’ at Neasden Temple

More than 75,000 members of the local community as well as visitors from across London in particular and the UK in general experienced the ‘Festival of Inspiration’ at Neasden Temple – from July 22 to 31. The event celebrated the very best of Hindu values and Indian culture across a…

Thousands enjoy food, music and adventure at Festival of Inspiration

THOUSANDS of visitors enjoyed a free day out on the opening weekend of the Festival of Inspiration at Neasden Temple. Families explored the children’s adventureland before tucking into mouth-watering Indian street food whilst listening to a vibrant blend of music at a cosy spot inside the gardens of the festival…

Grand procession commemorates Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s centennial birth anniversary

A GRAND procession took place from Alperton to BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London – popularly known as ‘Neasden Temple’ – on Sunday (17) to commemorate the birth centenary of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, one of the world’s great spiritual leaders and the creator of the iconic Neasden Temple. The…

Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar visits Neasden Temple, London, UK

Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, regarded as one of the greatest batsmen in the history of cricket, visited BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London – popularly known as ‘Neasden Temple’ – on Wednesday 13 July 2022. Tendulkar and his family prayed at the temple and were blessed by His Holiness Mahant…

Mega procession in London on July 17 to commemorate Pramukh…

A GRAND procession will take place from Alperton to BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London – popularly known as ‘Neasden Temple’ – on Sunday (17) to commemorate the birth centenary of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj (1921-2016), one of the world’s great spiritual leaders and the creator of the iconic Neasden…

UK Parliament Honours Amruta Fadnavis, wife of Maharashtra deputy CM

The British Parliament has awarded the ‘Indian of the World’ award to Amruta Fadnavis, the wife of Maharashtra deputy chief minister Devendra Fadnavis. Amruta’s visit to the UK coincided with the culmination of the political upheaval in Maharashtra – with Eknath Shinde becoming the chief minister and her husband  Devendra…

Indian High Commission celebrates International Day of Yoga at BAPS…

THE Indian High Commission in London on Tuesday (21) celebrated the eighth International Day of Yoga at BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in Neasden. Besides Indian high commissioner HE Gaitri Issar Kumar, Lord Rami Ranger and East Harrow member of parliament Bob Blackman addressed the gathering. Yoga enthusiasts from all over London…

BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute inaugurated in US

THE BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute, US, was inaugurated on Saturday (18) in Robbinsville, New Jersey, at the site of Swaminarayan Akshardham – North America. Besides Mahamahopadhyaya Pujya Bhadreshdas Swami, a renowned scholar of Hindu Philosophy and Sanskrit, more than 115 representatives from 50 Hindu temples and organisations, devotees and swamis…

Sir Salman Rushdie heads list of British Asians recognised in…

Author Sir Salman Rushdie and cricketer Moeen Ali are among a number of British Asians honoured in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List published on Wednesday (1). With doctors, politicians, educators, authors, community leaders and philanthropists among the 13.3 per cent of recipients coming from an ethnic minority background, this list showcases…

Bahrain formally grants land for BAPS temple as Crown Prince…

PRINCE Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Bahrain, on Tuesday (31) met a delegation of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha as the administration formally granted a piece of land for the construction of a Hindu temple. The gift of land was announced in February in…

‘BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute’ inaugurated at Neasden Temple

A new research institute was inaugurated on Sunday (29) at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in London, popularly known as Neasden Temple, a statement said. His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj inaugurated the BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute via video link from India by lighting a lamp, which was simultaneously lit by members…

Abu Dhabi temple on course for inauguration in early 2024

A Hindu temple being built by the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha in Abu Dhabi is expected to be completed within the next two years.The construction of the temple on a piece of land gifted by the UAE administration on the Dubai-Abu Dhabi highway, began in December 2019, some eight months after…

Johnson visits Akshardham temple in Gujarat

BRITISH prime minister Boris Johnson visited Swaminarayan Akshardham in Gandhinagar, Gujarat as part of his India tour.  He was greeted on Thursday (21) by Pujya Ishwarcharandas Swami, International Convenor of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), on behalf of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, the inspirer of Swaminarayan Akshardham and spiritual head…

BAPS spiritual leaders meet Narendra Modi

TWO spiritual leaders of the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan (BAPS) Sanstha met Indian prime minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi recently. The trio prayed for the welfare of Indians worldwide. HH Pujya Ishwarcharan Swami honoured Modi with a garland, while Brahmavihari Swami updated the prime minister on Sanstha’s Covid-19 pandemic…

Modi thanks BAPS, other groups for helping India’s evacuation efforts

INDIAN prime minister Narendra Modi has thanked volunteer groups, including BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, who had supported the evacuation of Indian nationals from Ukraine and neighbouring countries.In a video conference last week, Modi hailed the emergency response of the groups to help affected people as the war unfolded in Ukraine.Through its…

Sewa International evacuates 467 Africans from Ukraine

SEWA INTERNATIONAL, a Houston-based Indian-American non-profit body, has evacuated 467 African students from Ukraine's Sumy amidst a Russian military offensive.Sewa volunteers coordinated the evacuation efforts responding to a request by Shina Alege, the Nigerian Ambassador to Ukraine, the organisation said in a statement.Nigeria's minister for foreign affairs Geoffrey Onyema thanked…

Ukraine crisis: BAPS volunteers in Europe join relief efforts

BAPS volunteers in Europe have joined emergency relief efforts on the Polish, Romanian and Hungarian borders with Ukraine as instructed by His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj.  Last month, Indian prime minister Narendra Modi had a video conference with Pujya Swami Brahmaviharidas seeking assistance from BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha in ensuring the…

Indian delegation led by Lok Sabha speaker visits BAPS in…

AN INDIAN delegation of 17 people led by Lok Sabha speaker Om Birla visited the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday (23). The delegation was accompanied by UAE Federal National Council Member Ayesha Mohammed Al Mulla. “The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi is an ideal example of…

Johnson, Priti visit Neasden temple to celebrate Diwali

PRIME minister Boris Johnson and home secretary Priti Patel visited the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Neasden, north London, on Sunday (7) to celebrate Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights. The leaders, who were welcomed with traditional Indian garlands at the Neasden temple, also paid tribute to volunteers who helped…

Amit Shah, family spend time at BAPS Mandir in Gujarat

INDIA’S home minister Amit Shah and his family visited the BAPS Mandir at Sarangpur in Gujarat on Monday (1). BAPS saints Gnaneshwar Swami and Brahmavihari Swami welcomed the minister with a garland on behalf of BAPS leader His Holiness Pujya Mahant Swami Maharaj. Shah, who visited HH Param Pujya Pramukh…

Diaspora leaders discuss attacks on Hindus with top US Congressman

COMMUNITY leaders from the Indian-American diaspora met Congressman James McGovern and discussed the spike in atrocities on Hindus in various parts of the world, including Pakistan and Bangladesh. McGovern, who is the chairman of the House Rules Committee and the Democratic co-chair of the bipartisan Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission,…

Indian minister visits BAPS temple construction site in Abu Dhabi

INDIA’S minister of state for external affairs V Muraleedharan visited the construction site of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi. Muraleedharan, who was greeted by Brahmavihari Swamiji and other swamis, observed the ongoing construction of the temple and witnessed the installation of an intricately carved marble pillar, central to the…

Diwali celebrations in Britain will ‘light the lamps of love…

HINDU, Jain and Sikh families across the UK are preparing to celebrate Diwali, the festival of lights, which falls on November 4 this year. London and Leicester kicked off celebrations last weekend, as people gathered in the capital last Saturday (23) for Diwali on the Square, with a light display,…

UAE deputy prime minister visits BAPS temple model at Expo…

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES deputy prime minister and minister of presidential affairs, Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, last week visited the BAPS Hindu temple display at the India Pavilion at the Expo 2020 Dubai with consul general Dr Aman Puri. He is the latest dignitary to visit the display after…

Abu Dhabi Hindu temple site: 35 Gujarat officials visit

THIRTY-FIVE officials of the government of the western Indian state of Gujarat, including some Indian Administrative Service officers, on Tuesday (5) visited the under-construction BAPS Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi, the United Arab Emirates, Ahmedabad Mirror reported. They are in the UAE to attend the Expo 2020 Dubai which kicked…

Obit: Community leader Vinod H Patel passes away at 83

A PROMINENT community leader is being mourned after he passed away last month. Vinod H Patel was a dedicated devotee of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha where he acted as a trustee of the organisation until his retirement. He passed away on September 26 aged 83. He had a key role…

BAPS launches educational video to observe Organ Donation Week

ON the occasion of Organ Donation Week that kicked off on Monday (20), BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha has launched a new educational video about organ donation and the importance of having a conversation with the family about one’s wish to donate organs. Organ Donation Week is an annual campaign held in…

BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha to present parenting course from Bhagavad Gita

BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) is set to present a free three-part mini-course on parenting titled ‘Parenting from the Bhagavad Gita: What Can Krishna and Arjuna Teach Us About the Parent-Child Relationship?’ starting Tuesday (21). Each session at the programme will be of half-an-hour duration and be premiered fortnightly on YouTube…

Neasden Temple’s vaccination centre delivers over 80,000 doses

THE Covid-19 vaccination centre at the Swaminarayan School on Brentfield Road opened by BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, commonly known as the Neasden Temple, has delivered more than 80,000 doses so far. Started on 2 February 2021, the centre is supported by K&W Healthcare, a GP-led organisation supporting GPs and services in…

BAPS Charities join relief efforts during Covid second wave in…

A leading charity has joined efforts in combating the Covid-19 pandemic and alleviating the suffering in India during the second wave. BAPS Charities, through its global network and partner hospitals, has so far supported the treatment of over 3,800 victims to full recovery from Covid-19 in the country, a statement…

BAPS Abu Dhabi to host webinar series by Swami Brahmaviharidas

A LEADING Indian spiritual leader, Pujya Swami Brahmaviharidas, will be the keynote speaker at a webinar series organised by the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) in Abu Dhabi. Titled “Leading Consciously,” the talk on June 5 has the theme of leadership. There will be a talk by Pujya…

UK’s top charities and trusts launch Coronavirus Appeals for India

By Swati Rana INDIA'S rising Covid infection rates and deaths have prompted relief efforts from countries worldwide as well as community and charitable organisations. On Thursday (5), India reported 412,431 new cases and 3,980 deaths. There are several reports of shortage of oxygen and availability of beds in hospitals. Some…

EXCLUSIVE: Khan’s post-pandemic London recovery plan

Mayor reveals why he was forced to put up congestion charges in the capital by Barnie Choudhury London mayor, Sadiq Khan, promised to fight to make sure his city recovers from the pandemic, if he were re-elected on Thursday (6). Europe’s first south Asian and Muslim mayor of a capital…

UK charities appeal to help India to tackle second Covid…

CHARITY appeals have been launched in the UK as India tackles a devastating second wave of the coronavirus. Individuals and groups have started fundraising to help patients in India. With 3.45 million active cases, the country recorded 357,229 new coronavirus infections early this week, while deaths rose 3,449 for a…

Indians in UAE to send oxygen support for Covid-19 fight…

INDIANS living in UAE have got together to send oxygen support to Covid-19 patients back home, and leading in the efforts are a Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi and a Sikh Gurudwara in Dubai. Working in tandem with UAE's leadership and with the support of the members of the Indian…

London mayoral candidate Shaun Bailey visits Swaminarayan temple in Neasden

SHAUN BAILEY, Conservative London mayoral candidate, last week visited the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Neasden, and hailed the temple's “incredible work” during the pandemic. During his visit, he was accompanied by Gagan Mohindra MP and local Cllr Ameet Jogia. He also praised the temple for using its space as…

URGENT APPEAL: Help Save Lives in India

THE British Asian Trust (BAT) and the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Santha (BAPS) are just two organisations among several that are raising funds to help Covid-stricken patients in the subcontinent. Chief executive of BAT, Richard Hawkes, said its “Oxygen for India Emergency Appeal” will raise funds for oxygen concentrators,…

Praise for Prince Philip’s ‘service and duty’

SWAMIS at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London, popularly known as the Neasden Temple, as well as devotees across the UK were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh. We fondly recollect the Duke of Ed­inburgh’s visit to the Mandir on July 23,…

‘Asians share in this moment of national loss’

By Lord Jitesh Gadhia [caption id="attachment_78311" align="alignright" width="256"] Lord Jitesh Gadhia[/caption] IN CONTRIBUTING to the debate [on Prince Philip’s legacy], I should like to give voice to the sentiments of the British Indian and wider British Asian communi­ty, who share fully in this moment of nation­al loss and in giving…

BAPS donates for the Ram Janmabhumi Mandir in Ayodhya

THE BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Ahmedabad, donated Rs  2,11,11,111 (over £200,000) for the Ram Janmabhumi Mandir in Ayodhya, India, at a special function held on Saturday(13). Sadguru Ishwarcharan Swami presented the cheque to Gujarat chief minister Vijaybhai Rupani and a trustee and treasurer of Ram Janmabhumi Tirthkshetra Govinddevgiriji Maharaj at…

Ending Covid restrictions too soon ‘could risk lives’

By Amit Roy THE BBC reports that the proportion of Pakistanis aged 80 and over refusing to take the vaccine in Bradford is 23 per cent. They are a danger not only to themselves, but to other members of their own families, as well as the NHS and the rest…

Patel urges people from ethnic backgrounds to get the Covid-19…

UK home secretary Priti Patel has urged people from ethnic backgrounds to get the coronavirus vaccine when their time comes. She said this while visiting a vaccination centre set up with the help of volunteers from Neasden Temple on Wednesday(3). The centre at the Swaminarayan School in Neasden, north west…

BAPS Mandirs in the US join nationwide memorial to honour…

BAPS Mandirs across the US were illuminated amber, in remembrance and honour of the many Americans who have lost their lives due to Covid-19. The lighting event was held on Tuesday(19) in conjunction with the national memorial at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington, a BAPS statement said. Many…

BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha UK wins Threlford Memorial Cup

THE BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha in the UK has been awarded the Threlford Memorial Cup for 2020 by the Chartered Institute of Linguists. It recognises the impact of training to promote the learning of the Gujarati language. Rahul Bhagvat accepted the award on behalf of a team of BAPS volunteers who…

Neasden Temple delivered over 40,000 meals to the needy in…

THE BAPS Swaminarayan Neasden Temple in north London delivered more than 40,000 meals to people from vulnerable communities across London by partnering with the Felix Project from November 9-13, during Diwali. The Felix Project collects fresh, nutritious food that cannot be sold and delivers it to charities and schools across…

Councils urge people to avoid festival crowds during Diwali

by LAUREN CODLING COUNCIL leaders have urged faith communities to follow lockdown guidelines during Diwali, as a top police officer confirmed the service would investigate reports of rule-breaking during major religious celebrations. David Jamieson, the West Midlands police and crime commissioner, warned officers would intervene if large groups gathered during…

Devotees vow to keep the faith amid new lockdown

by LAUREN CODLING FAITH leaders have revealed efforts to engage with members of the community during Diwali festivities, following the government announcement of a four-week lockdown across England from Thursday (5). Under the new rules, all places of worship will have to close for the duration unless they are being…

Covid-19: BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir spreads awareness about PRINCIPLE trial among…

BRITAIN’S most influential Hindu temple, the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, in north London, is seeking to spread awareness in the Asian community about the PRINCIPLE treatment trial aimed at alleviating the symptoms of Covid-19 patients. Led by the University of Oxford, the PRINCIPLE trial is evaluating if treatment administered early can…

Neasden Temple road will be renamed after Pramukh Swami

PART of a road near the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in Neasden, north London, will be renamed after the Indian saint whose idea it was to build the project, writes Adam Shaw. On Monday (12), Brent Council’s cabinet approved an application by the Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, also known as Neasden Temple,…

A road near Neasden Temple in Brent could be renamed…

By Adam Shaw, Local Democracy Reporting Service BRENT COUNCIL’s cabinet will assess an application put forward by the Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, also known as Neasden Temple, to rename part of Meadow Garth to Pramukh Swami Road. Pramukh Swami Maharaj was president of the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) movement,…

Prince Charles lauds BAPS community service as he marks Neasden…

PRINCE CHARLES has lauded the Hindu community and BAPS volunteers for supporting the needy and the most vulnerable during the pandemic in a special video message to mark the 25th anniversary of the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in London. Starting off with "namaste" and "Jai Swaminarayan", the Prince of Wales…

Lord Gadhia: BAPS Swaminarayan temple is a ‘jewel in the…

Lord Jitesh Gadhia looks back on 25 years since the opening of Europe’s first traditional stone temple THE inauguration of the Neasden Mandir on 20 August 1995, was not only a proud achievement for the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, and all the devotees who worked so hard to fulfil the dreams…

BAPS Neasden temple marks 25 years with Vedic prayers

ONE OF London’s best known Hindu temples, the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in north London, marks its silver jubilee anniversary this weekend with virtual celebrations that will be watched by millions in the UK and abroad. It was on August 20, 1995, that the temple in Neasden was inaugurated by the revered spiritual…

Community investment scheme worth £140,000 to encourage BAME organ donors

A funding of £140,000 was distributed among 25 organisations as part of the first round of the BAME Community Investment Scheme which encourages organ donation among black, Asian and minority ethnic communities. The scheme, led by NHS Blood and Transplant, with support from the National BAME Transplant Alliance (NBTA), addresses…

Hindu community in UAE supports the global initiative to pray…

The Hindu community in Abu Dhabi has extended its support for the Higher Committee of Human Fraternity's call to pray for humanity on May 14, 2020 to end the COVID-19 pandemic. Pujya Brahmavihari Swami, leader of the Hindu community and head of BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, has expressed…

Neasden Temple launches video honouring key workers

The BAPS Neasden Temple in London has launched a video paying tribute to UK's key workers battling the Covid-19 pandemic. The video -- based on a poem titled ‘Serving Together in the Joy of Others’ -- features British Hindu key workers who are part of the BAME frontline army. There…

BAPS India’s charity work helps millions during lockdown 

BAPS India is actively involved in charity work through 1,000 sadhus and 5,000 volunteers in major locations across the country. Under the guidance and inspiration of Brahmaswarup Pramukh Swami Maharaj and Guruhari Mahant Swami Maharaj, BAPS responded to government requests for assistance to care for the needy. In the first…

Faith matters in funerals while adhering to official guidelines

by LAUREN CODLING FAITH leaders have revealed how they are coping with funerals amid the Covid-19 pandemic, as restrictions mean many are unable to perform traditional religious rituals. In view of the strict measures implemented by the government in recent weeks to contain the spread of coronavirus, funeral directors and…

BAPS in Birmingham joins the community service initiative

THE BAPS in Birmingham has joined the BAPS UK community service initiative during COVID-19 pandemic. The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) in the UK has launched a nationwide community care programme to support individuals and local communities during the period of crisis. Under the programme, volunteers are reaching out to over…

COVID-19: BAPS launches community care programme in UK

To help individuals and local communities during COVID-19 pandemic, the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) in the UK has launched a nationwide ‘Connect and Care’ community care programme. Following the call by its spiritual leader His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, BAPS mobilised hundreds of volunteers in more than 30 areas around…

Birmingham pharmacy charges £19.99 for bottle of Calpol, sparks outrage…

A West Midlands-based pharmacy chain has been lambasted on social media for allegedly charging three times more than the normal price for a bottle of Calpol. Councillor for Bromford and Hodge Hill in Birmingham Majid Mahmood on Wednesday night posted on Twitter a photo that showed bottles of the liquid paracetamol…

BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha offers online ‘satsangs’ as it shuts temples

WITH concerns over the coronavirus pandemic mounting, BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha has closed its temples in the UK, Europe, North America and Australia, and temporarily suspended its social and religious activities. Devotees, however, will be given daily darshan through the websites of each mandir. And the organisation will continue to provide…

Religious leaders and other prominent figures pay tribute to Asian…

PROMINENT personalities from all walks of life – in the UK, India, and abroad, have paid tributes to Ramniklal Solanki, the editor-in-chief and founder of the Asian Media Group (AMG), who passed away on March 1 in India following a short illness. This is a small selection from the many messages received…

Places of worship act to contain Covid-19 infections 

By Nadeem Badshah BRITAIN confirmed that six people had died and more than 370 were infected with the coronavirus on Tuesday (10), as more than 115,124 cases have been recorded in 105 countries and territories worldwide. Airlines have cancelled flights and places of worship have adopted special measures to stop…

COVID-19: BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir cancels events

ALL events and sabhas (religious assemblies) at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London, have been cancelled or postponed until further notice due to the outbreak of coronavirus in UK and Europe, a communication from the Mandir said. Besides, all planned local sabhas and events at all BAPS mandirs and centres across…

Adieu to pioneer of Asian Media

LONDON MAYOR Sadiq Khan has led tributes to Ramniklal Solanki, a giant of Gujarati journalism and pioneer of British Asian media, who passed away on Sunday (1), after a brief illness. He was 88. Mr Solanki was in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, when he suffered a stroke last week. He was admitted…

Boris Johnson: ‘Asians are UK’s assets’

by RITHIKA SIDDHARTHA PRIME MINISTER Boris Johnson has praised the Indian community in the UK, saying they are one of Britain’s “greatest national assets”. In an exclusive interview with Eastern Eye ahead of Thursday’s (12) general election, the leader of the Conservative  party also paid tributes to immigrants, saying they…

UK Indian drives solo to Arctic Circle to raise cancer…

AN adventurer has completed her mission to undertake a solo winter expedition to the Arctic Circle in a bid to raise awareness on cancer. Bharulata Patel-Kamble, a cancer survivor and automobile expeditor, embarked on the Arctic Circle Winter Adventure Challenge on November 3 and completed it on November 12. After…

Neasden Temple celebrates Diwali, Hindu new year

THE BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir (Neasden Temple) celebrated Diwali and the Hindu new year. Thousands of devotees, including British home secretary Priti Patel, Indian High Commissioner to the UK Ruchi Ghanashyam, and others took part in the two-day-long celebrations started on Sunday (27). Patel launched a pyromusical fireworks display in…

Trump to celebrate Diwali at White House on Thursday

US president Donald Trump will celebrate Diwali at the White House on Thursday (24), three days ahead of the formal celebrations of the festival of lights in India. This would be Trump's third Diwali celebrations at the White House, a tradition that began with his predecessor Barack Obama in 2009.…

Ruchi Ghanashyam visits Neasden temple

The High Commissioner of India to the UK joined worshippers for a special assembly at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Neasden, London on Saturday (12). Ruchi Ghanashyam, a career diplomat who joined the Indian Foreign Services in 1982, was given a peek into the various social, community and outreach activities…

Prayers and discourses mark Pujya Mahant Swami Maharaj’s 86th birthday…

PRAYERS and discourses marked the 86th birthday celebrations of His Holiness Pujya Mahant Swami Maharaj, the spiritual leader of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), last Saturday (28). At the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in north London (popularly known as the Neasden Temple), young people sang bhajans. Saints also gave a…

Karisma Kapoor planning to make her big screen comeback?

Karisma Kapoor was last seen on the big screen in 2018 release Zero. She had a cameo in it. The actress, who ruled the box office in the 90s, was last seen on the big screen in a full-fledged role in 2012 release Dangerous Ishhq. The film tanked at the…

Neasden Temple celebrates Guru Purnima

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, (Neasden Temple) celebrated Guru Purnima in the presence of Sadguru Pujya Ishwarcharan Swami on Saturday (22). A special assembly of devotional songs, videos and discourses to celebrate Guru Purnima was held in the temple. Young members of the community began the evening programme by singing bhajans extolling the virtues of…

Pujya Rambapa commences his centennial year with Ram Dhoon

DEVOTEES and well-wishers flocked to Sindhi Mandir in Cricklewood on Sunday (2), to felicitate Pujya Rambapa on his 99th birthday. The devotees took part in a nine hour non-stop ‘Ram Dhoon’ programme to mark the occasion. Over a thousand people participated in the birthday dhoon which was organised by Shree Jignyasu…

Lib Dem candidate meets senior spiritual leader ahead of EU…

THE Liberal Democrats candidate for the European Elections was blessed by His Holiness Doctor Swami in London on Saturday (18). Dinesh Dhamija met with the religious leader at the BAPs Swaminarayan Temple in Neasden, northwest London. The businessman was blessed by Doctor Swami and was presented with a special edition…

HH Mahant Swami Maharaj visits Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Interfaith harmony and cultural inclusiveness were discussed during a meeting between His Holiness (HH) Mahant Swami Maharaj, spiritual head of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, and Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan of the United Arab Emirates government on Sunday (21). The Minister of State for Tolerance took HH Mahant Swami…

UK promotes organ donation among Hindu, Jain communities

The UK government on Monday (28) announced funding for several organisations working with the country's Hindu and Jain communities to address an urgent need for ethnic minority organ donors. The organisations are launching projects to break down myths and encourage British Hindus to become organ donors after bidding for a…

Modi hails Pramukh Swami on his 98th birth anniversary

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (15) paid tribute to the late Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the former spiritual head of Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Santha (BAPS) Swaminarayan sect, on his 98th birth anniversary. The 11-day celebrations for the spiritual leader, who died in August 2106, started in Rajkot on December…

Carers Guide Now In Gujarati

THE Carers UK charity has produced a Gujarati guide-book for those who look after friends and family members, it was announced on Monday (10). The Looking after Someone guide is a product of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha’s partnership with Carers UK. The booklet will act as a tool for any Gujarati carers…

Neasden Temple receives London Faith & Community Awards

The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, also known as the Neasden Temple, received an honour from the London Faith & Community Awards on 27 November for its commitment to the health and welfare of elderly community members. Volunteers from the Mandir were presented with the award under the ‘Health and Wellbeing’ category by the Lord-Lieutenant of Greater London (Sir Kenneth Olisa…

UK leaders offer festive Diwali wishes

by LAUREN CODLING POLITICIAL leaders have paid tribute to the Asian community on the occasion of Diwali. Prime minister Theresa May said she was “delighted” to send her best wishes to Hindus across the UK as communities joined to celebrate the festival. She said Diwali reminded people of the significance…

BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha Presents £20,000 Cheque To Carers UK

BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha presented a cheque for £20,000 to Carers UK during a special evening assembly recently at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London. The funds were raised during the BAPS Annual 10K Challenge, which brought together more than 3,000 enthusiastic participants from towns and cities across the UK in April…

School of thought

SANSKRIT MEET LAUDS NEW INSTITUTE OF HINDU LEARNING SCHOOL has been recognised as the first independent institute of Hindu philosophies since the 16th century, it was revealed at a Sanskrit conference earlier this month. The Bhagwan Swaminarayan’s Akshar-Pu­rushottam Darshan was officially named the first new independent school of Vedanta (one…

World Sanskrit Conference recognises Akshar-Purushottam Darshan as distinct Vedanta Tradition

The  17th World  Sanskrit  Conference, which was inaugurated on July 9 in Vancouver, Canada, recognised Bhagwan Swaminarayan’s Akshar-Purushottam Darshan as the first new  independent  school  of  Vedanta  since  the  16th century. More than 600 eminent Sanskrit scholars and educators from over 40 countries attended the historic event that was held…

Parents seek solution as London faith school extends closure deadline

by LAUREN CODLING A FAITH school in north London has announced that it will extend its closure deadline, as parents voiced concerns about the impact on students after the shutdown. The BAPS Swaminarayan School in Brent first announced its decision to close late last month. Initially set up in 1992,…

BAPS temple in east London

NEW HINDU PLACE OF WORSHIP WILL ALSO BE A COMMUNITY HUB A NEW Hindu temple was inaugurated in the presence of two senior saints visiting from India last Saturday (9). The celebrations of the BAPS Shri Swa­minarayan Mandir in Chigwell, Essex, were held in the presence of Anandswarupdas Swami and…

President Kovind says India is ‘fortunate’ to have BAPS community…

India president Ram Nath Kovind on Monday (22) praised the BAPS (Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha) sect for its activities towards the welfare of society. "Our country is fortunate to have saints who had made social service their life's main aim for the welfare of the people. Many saints have…

Mayor meets the best of Bollywood, sports and religion on…

by LAUREN CODLING LONDON mayor Sadiq Khan has proposed plans for revised student visas and announced a scheme to monitor pollution in Indian and British cities on his visit to India earlier this week. Khan landed in the country last weekend and will wrap up his six-day visit in Pakistan…

BAPS spiritual leader joins forces with Obama

BAPS spiritual leader His Holiness Pujya Mahant Swami Maharaj and former US president Barack Obama discussed the contribution by the Indian diaspora and how they can be more involved in public life during a recent meeting in Washington DC. Paying tribute to BAPS temples, the former US president noted that…

Mahant Swami Maharaj captivates audience at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan…

Devotees and well-wishers gathered to welcome His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Atlanta, GA on on Wednesday (21). With deep joy and excitement, devotees officially welcomed Mahant Swami Maharaj on his first trip to North America as Guru and President of the BAPSSwaminarayan Sanstha,…

Ashes of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj scattered at River…

The ashes of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj were scattered in the River Thames on Sunday (18), in commemoration of his longstanding and sacred ties with the British capital. Pramukh Swami Maharaj, who passed away in Sarangpur, India, in August 2016, had visited London 19 times between 1970 and 2007, and…

Theresa May visits Swaminarayan Mandir

British Prime Minister Theresa May along with her husband Philip has paid a visit to the Swaminarayan Mandir in north-west London, the largest Hindu temple outside India, days ahead of the UK general election to be held on June 8. May, 60, visited the temple in Neasden and offered flower…

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THE prime minister David Cameron and chancellor George Osborne made impassioned pleas to the Hindu community to vote to remain in the European Union, in “the most important decison” for voters in a lifetime. Cameron visited the Bhaktivedanta Manor in Watford last Friday, while Osborne was at the BAPS Swaminarayan…

Keeping the (Swaminarayan) faith in today’s world

Scholars who contributed to a text about the Swaminarayan faith group have paid tribute to the community, whose origins are in Gujarat, as they praised their tradition of service and their resilience. Raymond B Williams, a professor at Wabash College in Indiana in the US; and Yogi Trivedi, an adjunct…

Jitesh Gadhia inducted into House of Lords

The newly ennobled Jitesh Gadhia, who was formally introduced to the House of Lords on Monday (September 12) as Baron Gadhia of Northwood in the County of Middlesex, began by paying a warm tribute to former prime minister David Cameron. Gadhia, an investment banker, helped Cameron write his well-received Wembley…

Temple raises £15k for cancer

A GENEROUS donation from worshipers at a no- rth London temple to Im- perial College London will be used to fund research into prostate cancer. In total, £15,000 was raised for the NHS Trust from donors at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Man- dir in Neasden. Dr Stephen Mangar, consultant oncologist…

Millions bid farewell to HH Pramukh Swami Maharaj

More than 200,000 devotees gathered on Wednesday (17) at Sarangpur in Gujarat for the last rites of His Holiness (HH) Param Pujya Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the head of the Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Sanstha (BAPS), who passed away last Saturday (13), aged 95. Followers of the saint came from India…

US lawmakers pay rich tributes to Pramukh Swami Maharaj

Top US lawmakers and political leaders have paid glowing tributes to Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the spiritual head of the Swaminarayan sect, who passed away last week, saying his service touched the lives of millions around the world. Several lawmakers said Swami, the creator of Akshardham and spiritual leader of BAPS…

Priti Patel visits India on ‘smart cities mission’

International development secretary Priti Patel offered support and expertise from the UK government to Madhya Pradesh, primarily for the proposed smart cities. The “smart cities mission”, launched by Indian prime minister Narendra Modi last year, will set out to transform urban regions to highly advanced in terms of overall infrastructure,…

‘Pramukh Swamiji Maharaj was a saint of the century’

Paying tribute to the BAPS leader, Pujya Swami Chidanand Saraswatiji said: “It is a great tragedy for India and the world that HH Pujya Pramukh Swamiji Maharaj has left from his earthly, physical body. We were so blessed to have him in physical form for so many, divine years, and…

Modi: Many of you lost a guru, but I have…

INDIAN prime minister Narendra Modi led tributes to His Holiness Param Pujya Pramukh Swami Maharaj, who passed away last Saturday (13), saying he had lost a “fatherly figure”. HH Pramukh Swami, the fifth spiritual head of the influential Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purrushottam Sanstha (BAPS) Swaminarayan Sanstha, died in Sarangpur, in…

Chief minister and governor of Gujarat pay their respects to…

Head of socio-spiritual organisation BAPS and inspirer of world renowned Akshardham mandir, HH Pramukh Swami Maharaj passed away on 13 August 2016 at 6 pm. The word spread fast and the small town of Sarangpur was soon flooded with devotees and well-wishers eager for darshan. As soon as news were…

Mahant Swami takes charge

His Holiness (HH) Mahant Swami (Swami Keshavjivandas), the sixth spiritual guru of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, was named as the successor of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj four years ago, on July 20, 2012, in the presence of senior sadhus in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Their association dates to 1971, although the…

Charities spread Christmas cheer over the festive season

BRITISH Asians, led by the Muslim, Sikh and Hindu communities, have embraced the season of goodwill by providing clothing, food and advice to those in need this festive period. Several initiatives have been taking place, from London to Iraq, where charitable organsiations have been collecting supplies to feed the homeless…