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BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London – popularly known as the Neasden Temple – is the first traditional Hindu Mandir in Europe. 2,820 tonnes of Bulgarian limestone and 2,000 tonnes of Italian Carrara marble were shipped to India, carved by over 1,500 craftsmen and reshipped to London. In all, 26,300 carved pieces were assembled like a giant jigsaw puzzle in less than 3 years. It is a miracle of modern times worked by over a thousand volunteers. It is a masterpiece of exotic design and workmanship that rises above London's skyline. Replete with luminescent white pinnacles and glittering marble pillars, it stands as a beacon for Hindus, both young and old throughout the world.
Since its opening in August 1995, the Mandir has attracted devotees and visitors from all over the world as well as 8,600 school and group visits. They come to experience living Hinduism and the peace and tranquility that the sacred Mandir and murtis provide. Together with the Mandir, the 'Understanding Hinduism' exhibition treats visitors to a concise, yet comprehensive study of the Hindu religion. It is an ideal place to learn about the glorious culture of India and the values of Hindu Dharma.
The Mandir also has a number of activities for both the young and old. The Sports Hall is a major focus for youngsters with a badminton club, keep fit classes, self-defence and yoga. Football, table tennis and cricket are some of the sports played. An Annual Sponsored Walk is also held. The Haveli prayer hall is totally pillarless spanning 2,500 sq. metres and satsang (spiritual discourses) for people of all age groups is catered for. Medical help is provided to the community through health screening and medical seminars. Similar activities also take place in other centres across the UK.
Festivals are celebrated on a grand scale at the Mandir. Swaminarayan Jayanti, Ramnavmi, Janmashtami, Shivratri, Holi and Ganesh Chaturthi are all celebrated in a traditional manner. Diwali and Annakut are the grandest festivals of all, attracting thousands of people for darshan.
The Mandir has also achieved international recognition with two entries in Guinness World Records; the first entry is for the largest traditionally built Hindu stone Mandir in the Western hemisphere and the second for the largest Annakut offering with 1,247 vegetarian items offered to the sacred deities.
The Mandir has also been described as the 8th wonder of the world by Reader's Digest and has earned a place in their book, the 70 Wonders of the 20th Century. The Mandir has been seen all around the world through over 70 newspapers and magazines, as well as 30 television and radio stations.
The Mandir has also attracted various international leaders including; HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, HRH The Prince of Wales, The late Princess Diana, The late King Birendra of Nepal, The Archbishop of Canterbury Dr George Carey, Tony Blair, John Major and many more. |
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