The BAPS Swaminarayan Centre in Oxford hosts colourful Diwali and Hindu New Year celebrations every year.

But this month the situation was very different due to the coronavirus crisis and celebrations had to take place online instead.

The iconic community celebrations usually welcome worshippers, well-wishers and members of the local community to celebrate the glorious traditions of the Hindu faith.

But this year the centre in Oxford has been forced to stay closed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

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However, through its national headquarters at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London (popularly known as ‘the Neasden Temple’), worshippers and well-wishes across Oxfordshire  were able to celebrate a Covid-safe Diwali and Hindu New Year earlier this month.

Oxford Mail:

Diwali food

Amid the global Covid-19 pandemic, volunteers and resident swamis at the Neasden Temple have embraced innovative ways to connect individuals, families and communities through online assemblies and services.

These were harnessed to bring the light and warmth of Diwali and the Hindu New Year through a series of special programmes.

The celebrations began with a musical tribute to His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj – the Mandir’s inspirer and creator – on November 11.

The Dhanteras celebration is the first day of Diwali where devotees offer their reverence to Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity.

Swamis performed special evening rituals from the Mandir shrines on November 12, which were reciprocated by worshippers in their homes.

The main Diwali celebrations on November 14 included the ‘Chopda Pujan’ ceremony where Saraswati, the deity of knowledge, learning, the arts and wisdom, is revered.

The day following Diwali marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year.

Oxford Mail:

Sanjay Patel, a volunteer at the centre, said: “Although worshippers and visitors were not able to celebrate in mass this year, we were delighted to bring the enriching spiritual experience to the homes of the local community.

"The festival is a reaffirmation of hope, renewed commitment to family, friendship and goodwill, and a religiously sanctioned celebration of the joys of life. Families celebrated these noble values despite remaining apart. In keeping with the messages of selflessness, charity and unity from His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, our prayers this year are for all those affected by the global pandemic."