BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London – popularly known as Neasden Temple – held special prayers on New Year’s Day to seek blessings for world peace, family harmony, and a safe and successful year ahead for everyone.
Hundreds of families, comprising worshippers and community members of all ages and backgrounds, had gathered inside Neasden Temple’s prayer hall to participate in the sacred ceremony. Many more had joined online through a live webcast, allowing families around the country and in Europe to participate from their homes.
Yogvivekdas Swami, Head Swami of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha in the UK and Europe, shared: “The New Year brings renewed faith and optimism. His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj has inspired us all to foster goodwill, unity, and positivity. It was heartwarming to see thousands of people beginning their new year by praying for others.
“We also pray that the blessings and positive energy from the mahapuja are fostered throughout 2024 and beyond to bring a lasting impact to our global community.”
The mahapuja, literally translated as a grand prayer is a very special, ancient holy ceremony that involves invoking the divine presence of God before offering him due reverence and devotion.
As swamis conducted the various components of the mahapuja, including the chanting of powerful Vedic mantras, they shared explanations to allow participants to understand and enjoy the ceremony.
BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) is an international community-based Hindu fellowship affiliated to the United Nations, caring for individuals, families and societies through its more than one million members, 80,000 volunteers and 5,025 centres. Under the spiritual leadership of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, BAPS strives to build a righteous, peaceful and harmonious community that is spiritually elevated and free of addictions and violence.
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In the UK, BAPS is registered with the Charity Commission as BAPS Charities and is respected as one of the largest and most active Hindu communities in the country. It is particularly known for its multifarious community outreach activities and the internationally acclaimed BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Neasden, London.
*Info: Neasden Temple
