Over 1,500 devotees and visitors attended the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Preston to offer their prayers during Diwali celebrations.
As part of the festivities, an Annakut (mountain of food) – was arranged as an offering of the first meal of the New Year in thanksgiving to God and to seek His blessings for the year ahead.
His Worshipful Mayor of Preston, Councillor Brian Rollo, the High Sheriff of Lancashire, Robert Mitchel Webb, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Central Lancashire, Professor Mike Thomas, and various other guests also joined the celebrants.
Yogvivekdas Swami, Head Swami of BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London, shared the key messages of Diwali explaining that it is also called the ‘Festival of Light’ because devotees traditionally light rows of lamps symbolising the triumph of good over evil, and it is thus an opportune moment to reinforce one’s love for God and celebrate the values of charity, goodwill and family, and to dispel inner darkness with the light of God’s presence.
The Mayor awarded a ‘Certificate of Distinction’ on behalf of the City of Preston to His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the former spiritual leader of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, who passed away in August 2016.
The award recognised Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s spiritual, humanitarian and charitable contribution to Preston since 1974.
His Worshipful explained that the Council was ‘delighted’ to honour Pramukh Swami Maharaj with this award which has previously been received by only three individuals.
Neetal Parekh, a volunteer at the Mandir, said, “His Holiness made positive contributions in many cities worldwide. Preston was fortunate to have received his blessings. Since his passing last year, there have been similar tributes in cities across the globe.”
Ambrish Limbachia, also a volunteer at the Mandir added, “Preston’s history dates back prior to the 11th century, and it is remarkable to know that Pramukh Swami Maharaj is one of only three individuals to receive such an award in the long and proud heritage of the City.”
The programme concluded with a Diwali and New Year message for world peace and unity from His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, the current spiritual leader of BAPS, who recently concluded his month-long visit of the UK and Europe.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here