As the United States celebrated its 250th anniversary, BAPS Hindu Mandir in Tampa joined local communities in commemorating this historic milestone through service, reflection and civic engagement.
The celebration provided an opportunity to express gratitude for the religious freedom and opportunities that have enabled Hindu American families to preserve their traditions while contributing meaningfully to the diverse fabric of American society.
The Tampa community participated in the wider America 250 initiative through activities centred on unity, service and community engagement. The celebrations reflected the belief that strong communities are built when people of different backgrounds come together through shared values and a commitment to serving others.
The initiative also highlighted the importance of community service. BAPS devotees have contributed to local communities for decades through humanitarian relief, health-awareness initiatives, educational programmes, environmental campaigns, hunger relief and other forms of community outreach.
BAPS Charities’ annual Walk-Run was also highlighted as an example of sustained community service. Across North America, more than 1,200 Walk-Runs have been organised over the past two decades, supporting hundreds of local organisations and causes.
The America 250 celebrations also provided opportunities for interfaith engagement and dialogue. BAPS mandirs across North America welcomed neighbours, elected officials and faith leaders, strengthening relationships built through years of shared service and friendship.
Patriotic cultural displays and family activities added another dimension to the celebrations. Traditional Indian rangoli designs incorporated red, white and blue themes, bringing together American and Indian cultural expressions while providing families with an opportunity to reflect on the significance of the anniversary.
For many Hindu American families, the occasion was deeply personal. It provided an opportunity to appreciate the freedom to practise their faith openly, preserve their cultural heritage and pass their traditions to younger generations while contributing positively to American society.
The celebration in Tampa formed part of a broader series of America 250 activities organised by BAPS communities across North America. Through service projects, community outreach, interfaith engagement and cultural celebrations, devotees reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the communities they call home.
Demonstrating endurance, determination and a shared sense of purpose, 15 cyclists successfully completed a 315-kilometre charity cycle ride from London to Paris in support of the forthcoming inauguration of BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir in the suburbs of Paris later this year.
The four-day journey began in London with prayers and blessings before the riders set off from South London. Cycling through the English countryside towards Newhaven, the group crossed the English Channel by ferry before continuing their journey through northern France.
Over the following three days, the cyclists travelled through picturesque towns and rural landscapes, covering a further 239 kilometres en route to Paris. The riders came from different generations, ranging in age from 18 to 75, and were united by a shared goal of supporting the Paris Mandir project while promoting healthy living, teamwork and community spirit.
The event was designed not as a competition, but as an opportunity to encourage participation, personal achievement and friendship. Throughout the journey, the cyclists supported one another through every challenge, creating lasting memories and strengthening bonds across the wider BAPS community.
As the cyclists approached Paris, they were joined by 11 local riders for the final stage from the Eiffel Tower to BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir in Bussy-Saint-Georges.
Upon arrival at the Mandir, the cyclists received a warm welcome from swamis and hundreds of devotees who had gathered to celebrate the completion of the challenge.
One participant reflected on the experience, saying, “This whole journey was exceptionally well organised, with every detail carefully planned. Completing the challenge was only possible because of the commitment, encouragement, and teamwork of everyone involved.”
The cycle ride formed part of the wider preparations for the historic opening of BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Mandir in Paris in September 2026. The Mandir stands as a testament to decades of devotion, service and community endeavour across Europe, inspired by the vision of His Holiness Yogiji Maharaj and guided through the continued efforts of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj and His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj.
BAPS representatives participated in the East Africa Youth Forum on Drugs 2026, a three-day forum that brought together 205 delegates from eight countries – Tanzania, Zanzibar, Kenya, Uganda, Malawi, South Africa, Turkey and Seychelles – to discuss the growing challenges of substance abuse and explore collaborative solutions for prevention and youth empowerment.
The forum was organised by the Drug Control and Enforcement Authority (DCEA) Tanzania, Care for All, Slumchild Foundation and Apar Foundation. It brought together youth leaders, government representatives, civil society organisations, health professionals, faith-based organisations and community stakeholders to exchange ideas and strengthen partnerships aimed at creating drug-free communities.
Throughout the three-day forum, participants engaged in discussions on drug prevention, mental health, youth leadership, rehabilitation and community-based approaches to addressing substance-use challenges.
The sessions highlighted the importance of empowering young people with knowledge, positive values and supportive environments that enable them to make healthy life choices.
BAPS contributed to the discussions by sharing its commitment to character development, value-based education and youth empowerment. Through its spiritual, educational and community-service initiatives, BAPS continues to inspire young people to lead disciplined, purposeful and addiction-free lives.
The forum also provided an opportunity to highlight the important role that faith-based organisations can play in strengthening resilience and promoting positive social change among young people.
The forum concluded with a closing ceremony officiated by Mr Aretas Lyimo, Commissioner General of the Drug Control and Enforcement Authority (DCEA). He commended the participants for their dedication and encouraged young people to remain drug-free and become ambassadors for prevention within their communities.
He also emphasised the collective responsibility of families, educators, faith-based organisations, governments and communities in safeguarding future generations from the dangers of substance abuse.
From 2015 onwards, BAPS swamis conducted a series of special seminars on the ‘Psychology of Child Development’ at BAPS mandirs and centres across the UK. The seminars were designed to help parents better understand their children’s needs, interests and wants and provide them with practical guidance for supporting their holistic development.
The initiative was rooted in the BAPS tradition of nurturing children. Yogiji Maharaj established the Bal-Balika Mandal to educate, elevate and inspire children, an ethos that was furthered by Pramukh Swami Maharaj. Recognising that parents play an integral role in the development of children, the seminars focused on equipping parents with a deeper understanding of child psychology.
Tyagprakash Swami delivered the seminars at seven locations across the UK: Bolton, East London, Edinburgh, Leeds, Luton, Manchester and Preston.
The first part of each seminar focused on the development of the young child’s brain. Participants learned how children absorb knowledge from their earliest years and how their surrounding environment can influence brain development. Practical advice was provided to help parents create a more positive and conducive atmosphere for their children. Diagrams, charts and scientific references were used to explain the concepts in an accessible manner.
The sessions also examined the potential negative impact of technology on children. Parents were provided with references for further reading to help them gain a deeper understanding of their children’s needs, interests and wants.
The second part explored a broader developmental roadmap covering the body, including diet, exercise and lifestyle disciplines; the power and complexity of the mind; and the role of a spiritually enriched life in the holistic development of a child. The presentations also explained how family harmony can support these aspects of a child’s development.
The seminars were well received by parents, with many delegates sharing positive feedback and committing to incorporate the learning into their daily lives.
A young mother from Luton described the seminar as “a real eye-opener” regarding the responsibility parents have to nurture and develop their children. She particularly appreciated the simple explanations of complex theories and studies, as well as the relevance of the real-life examples presented during the seminar.
Through these seminars, parents were given practical knowledge and a deeper understanding of child development, helping them create healthier, more supportive and spiritually enriched environments for their children.
Following the inauguration ceremony of the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Adelaide, the first Community Open Day was held on Saturday, 13 June 2015.
The event provided visitors with an opportunity to explore the Mandir facilities and learn about the various activities performed by BAPS in Adelaide. The programme commenced with children reciting Sanskrit verses of shantipath for world peace, followed by a brief presentation introducing BAPS and its local activities in Adelaide.
Guests were then taken on a guided tour of the Mandir. The tour explained the significance of the sacred images in the shrine, as well as the Nilkanth Abhishek Mandapam, dining hall and various activity rooms. Visitors also appreciated the Mandir’s environmentally friendly features and its state-of-the-art modern construction.
Youths and children presented a range of activities to give guests an insight into the regular programmes conducted at the Mandir. These included playing traditional Indian musical instruments, singing devotional songs and participating in Gujarati language classes.
The visitors also learned about BAPS’s contribution to the wider local community through various community initiatives. These included tree plantation, blood donation and fundraising for local hospitals.
Guests commended BAPS for the planning and design of the Mandir complex and thanked the volunteers for their positive contribution to the local community.
The Community Open Day provided the wider Adelaide community with an opportunity to experience the Mandir, understand its cultural and spiritual activities, and learn more about the organisation’s ongoing contribution to the local area. BAPS activities had become an integral part of the community and were supported by people from both the local neighbourhood and the wider community.
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in London has fostered a strong sense of community spirit since its inauguration in August 1995.
As part of the Mandir’s 20th anniversary celebrations, more than 150 local residents were hosted at the Mandir on Thursday 21 May 2015.
The guests included representatives from three local schools, businesses including IKEA, Tesco and Europcar, staff from the nearby health centre, clergy from local churches and members of the neighbourhood police.
Each guest was warmly welcomed and personally looked after by a team of dedicated volunteers. Upon arrival, visitors had their photograph taken with the Mandir as a backdrop, which was later presented to them as a memento of their visit.
The visitors then enjoyed a special guided tour of the Mandir, including an exhibition showcasing the wide range of activities organised by the Mandir. They also watched a video explaining the Mandir’s construction and its continuing role as a hub for community services.
The Board of Trustees expressed their appreciation to the neighbours for their years of support and friendship, with some relationships extending back more than 33 years.
Girish Patel, one of the Mandir volunteers, explained that although the Mandir had welcomed royalty, heads of state and celebrities over the years, it had never lost sight of one of its most important supporters – its neighbours.
A sumptuous vegetarian meal followed, during which the neighbours shared their personal experiences of living near the ‘Neasden Temple’.
The evening gave local residents a greater understanding of the Mandir’s local, national and international contributions, while strengthening their sense of connection with the Mandir and appreciation for its role within the neighbourhood.
One resident later expressed their appreciation, saying, “Thank you for a wonderful evening. You made us all feel very special and part of your community. Everyone we met could not do enough for us and appeared happy that we were with you all. The Mandir is an amazing place, one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen.”
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in London has welcomed worshippers and visitors from the local community, around the country and from abroad since it first opened its doors in August 1995.
As the Mandir celebrated its 20th anniversary, a series of events were organised to thank the many individuals and groups who had contributed to its development and continued activities. Among those whose contribution was central to the Mandir’s establishment and ongoing work were its dedicated elderly volunteers.
On Sunday 10 May 2015, a special event was organised at the Mandir to celebrate these senior volunteers and recognise their efforts in helping to build the Mandir over the previous 20 years, as well as their continued service.
The guests were warmly welcomed by a team of volunteers at the entrance. Upon arrival, each guest had their photograph taken with the Mandir as a backdrop. The photographs were later presented to them as special mementos of the occasion.
The senior volunteers were then entertained by musicians, comedians, a colourful dance performance, games, presentations and a magic show. They were also treated to a sumptuous vegetarian meal.
Sadhus and trustees of the Mandir personally expressed their appreciation to the elderly volunteers, thanking them for their invaluable contributions over the years.
The event was thoroughly enjoyed by those who attended, with many guests sharing their personal memories and experiences.
One elderly lady reflected on the occasion, saying, “When I walked inside the dining hall, I could not believe what I saw. The effort was phenomenal. I feel so deeply touched.”
Another senior volunteer expressed his appreciation, saying, “You did all this for us! The whole event was simply overwhelming, bringing back so many memories of when the Mandir was being built. Thank you for making us feel so special.”
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Wellingborough welcomed worshippers from around the country to join in prayers for world peace and harmony on Sunday 5 April 2015.
Housed within the Mandir is the Akshar Deri, a holy shrine where devotees offer prayers and prostrations and perform circumambulations for spiritual elevation. With the blessings of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, a tradition of continuous chanting for world peace and harmony has been observed since 1984, bringing Hindus from across the country together for this annual occasion.
Traditionally, the auspicious prayers are held on the first day of the New Year. In 2015, however, Easter weekend was chosen to encourage visitors of all ages and those travelling from further parts of the country to participate. The change proved to be a success, with many attendees taking advantage of the long weekend to make the journey to Wellingborough.
Latika Chauhan travelled from Brighton with her family to participate in the prayers. Reflecting on her experience, she said, “It was a beautiful, unforgettable experience. This is the first time that I have visited with my family and I can truly say that it was well worth the three-hour journey.”
She also shared how meaningful it was to see family and friends while experiencing the atmosphere of peace and harmony within the Mandir. She explained that the family prayed for those less fortunate and for the health and prosperity of all.
The prayers continued uninterrupted for 12 hours, from 7am until 7pm. The day marked the culmination of numerous months of preparation by volunteers and the wider community.
Mahesh Patel, lead volunteer at the temple, described the annual gathering as an important opportunity for people to come together and pray for peace and well-being throughout the world. He also expressed special thanks to everyone in the community whose support helped make the event a success.
Every year on 18 July, South Africans are encouraged to dedicate 67 minutes of their time to volunteering and social or charitable projects, honouring the 67 years Nelson Mandela dedicated to the struggle for freedom and equality in South Africa. The initiative encourages individuals and organisations to take action, inspire change and contribute towards building stronger communities.
BAPS Charities volunteers in Lenasia, south of Johannesburg, embraced the spirit of Mandela Day in 2014 by organising two community initiatives: supporting survivors of sexual violence through the preparation of essential rape-survival kits and helping to keep the local neighbourhood clean.
Supporting Women and Girls Affected by Sexual Violence
One of the key initiatives focused on providing practical support to women and girls who had experienced sexual violence.
BAPS Charities volunteers packed 450 rape-survival kits, each containing essential items including new underwear, sanitary goods and personal-hygiene products. The kits were donated to the Thutuzela Care Centre at Kopanong Hospital in Vereeniging, south of Johannesburg.
The Thutuzela Care Centre provides support to survivors of sexual violence. By supplying basic necessities at a time of trauma and vulnerability, the initiative aimed to help survivors feel cared for and supported while accessing the services available at the centre.
The kits were gratefully received by caregivers at the hospital, who thanked the volunteers for their efforts in preparing the essential supplies.
For BAPS Charities, the initiative represented more than a donation of material items. Providing necessities such as clothing, sanitary products and personal-hygiene supplies was a practical way of helping restore a sense of dignity and hope to women and girls affected by sexual violence.
Cleaning the Community
The second Mandela Day initiative focused on improving the local environment.
On the morning of Saturday, 19 July 2014, BAPS Charities volunteers spent their time cleaning the streets of Lenasia in response to the national call to make South Africa a cleaner nation.
The volunteers collected 125 bags of rubbish and waste, which were subsequently taken to the local Pikitup waste-management centre.
Through these two activities, BAPS Charities volunteers combined care for vulnerable members of the community with responsibility for the wider environment.
The Mandela Day initiatives demonstrated how volunteering can create meaningful change in different ways — from providing essential support and dignity to women and girls affected by sexual violence, to taking practical action to improve the cleanliness of the local community.
Every winter, BAPS Charities in South Africa run its annual Winter Warmer drive across all major cities in the country. The aim of the drive is to donate clothes, blankets, hot meals and non-perishable food and household items to underprivileged and impoverished communities in preparation for the winter season.
On Saturday, 31 May 2014, BAPS Charities volunteers from Mayfair, Johannesburg, donated 400 food hampers and served hot meals to approximately 400 people at the Barcelona informal settlement in Etwatwa, Daveyton. The residents of the settlement are recipients of BAPS Charities’ monthly food donation scheme where maize-meal, rice and other bulk food are provided to the settlement. The residents live in impoverished conditions and lack basic amenities to live a dignified life. They are also afflicted by various health challenges for which BAPS Charities provide weekly medical services to help treat their ailments. The hampers comprised of staple food and household items, such as rice, oil, tea, soap, candles and cereal. The hot meal was made up of rice and a hearty vegetarian curry. The people of the settlement were gracious and appreciative of our donation and thanked us by singing “God bless you” in their native language.
On Saturday, 7 June 2014, BAPS Charities volunteers completed the final winter warmer distributions from Johannesburg by donating blankets and clothing to two local beneficiaries: the Johannesburg Institute of Social Services (JISS) and Sparrow Rainbow Village. JISS is a child and family welfare institution that provides care and support to families and children in need of social services. They provide programs to assist people afflicted by the HIV/AIDS virus, awareness programs against child and women abuse and hold outreach programmes for people living in informal and impoverished circumstances. On the day, 100 blankets, clothes for men and women and 100 food hampers were donated to the families present. The care- givers of the organisation expressed their sincere gratitude and thanked all volunteers who attended the distribution.
Sparrow Rainbow Village is a hospice that provides full time residence to abused, orphaned and neglected children. They also look after children and young adults suffering with the HIV/AIDS virus. The organisation runs full time educational and skills training programs such as hand craft, jewellery making and baking. Approximately 300 people were recipients of blankets and donated clothes. The children and care-givers received our volunteers graciously and were appreciative of our donation. Through conversation with the care-givers and understanding the daily challenges that their organisation face, BAPS Charities has committed to supporting the Sparrow Rainbow Village in future projects and activities.
