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.
From toddlers through to senior citizens in their nineties, over 1,500 people from the local community in London raised funds and awareness for a variety of good causes in a fun and healthy charity event on Sunday 27 April 2014.
This year’s BAPS Charities Annual 10K Challenge partnered with Diabetes UK, the leading charity that cares for, connects with and campaigns on behalf of every person affected by or at risk of diabetes – including the 3.8 million people in the UK that are currently diagnosed with the condition.
As part of the Challenge, participants were asked to walk 10 kilometres, while for the more energetic, there was an option to jog or even run the distance. Despite the damp weather, all those taking part showed tremendous high spirits and enthusiasm.
The Challenge this year builds on 20 years of sponsored events. Previous national charity partners have included Macmillan Cancer Research, Barnardo’s, The Anthony Nolan Trust, The British Heart Foundation, Breast Cancer Care, Age UK, KIDS, as well as Diabetes UK.
The event kicked-off at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London shortly after 9am in the presence of Baroness Barbara Young, CEO of Diabetes UK. Also present to offer his support was The Worshipful Mayor of the London Borough of Brent Cllr Bobby Thomas, as were Cllrs Muhammed Butt, Zaffar Van Kalwala, Paul Lorber, Suresh Kansagra, Colum Moloney, and Ketan Sheth. In addition, PPCs Ibrahim Taguri, Kishan Devani and John Detre were also at the event.
Prominent members of the Punjab National Bank, who had contributed generously to the event, also joined the opening ceremony. The event was also supported by local companies who had kindly donated healthy refreshments for the walkers and runners.
Addressing the gathering, Barbara Young reiterated that Diabetes UK is “incredibly pleased to be associated with the Challenge.” Noting that diabetes particularly affects the South Asian community, she added that Diabetes UK was pleased to join BAPS Charities in helping people become aware of and deal with the condition.
She continued by saying: “We are particularly pleased to be working with your [BAPS Charities] healthcare team who work tirelessly to bring an excellent service.” The Baroness also offered her support for the diabetes screening sessions that are regularly organised by BAPS Charities.
The Mayor also addressed the assembly. “It is perhaps very fitting,” he said, “because here in Brent we are probably the borough that is affected most by diabetes. It is also good to see youngsters taking part for a good cause. I hope today is about healthy lifestyle and that you enjoy the walk and run.”
After the opening ceremony, walkers, joggers and runners moved along the route from the Mandir towards the picturesque King Edward VII Park in Wembley where participants completed two circuits before returning to the Mandir.
BAPS Charities volunteer Dr Sejal Saglani added, “We are very grateful to Diabetes UK who have worked closely with BAPS Charities to raise awareness about diabetes. We believe that this year’s Challenge has been even more popular despite the weather and are hopeful that generous sums will have been raised to help the charity with their excellent work.”
Similar events are being held by BAPS Charities at several other centres around the country, bringing the national total to around 4,000 participants.
Last year, over 16,000 walkers across North America supported BAPS Charities and a wide range of local community, health, educational and humanitarian activities. These Walkathons, organized by BAPS Charities, provided inspiration for individuals to come together and build a better community, one step at a time.
In continuing that tradition, the BAPS Charities Walk in Toronto, ON, Canada took place on June 07, 2015. In total, over 1100 participants enthusiastically walked a combined 5500 miles in support of the event which also benefited Princess Margaret Cancer Centre & The Scarborough Hospital.
