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NORTH AMERICAN Newsline NOVEMBER 15, 2024 | The Indian Eye 22

Diwali at BAPS Mandir in Parsippany, NJ:

A Celebration of Light, Culture and New Beginnings

Mandir Hosts a Vibrant Festival of Lights Filled with Rituals and Community Unity

OUR BUREAU in front of the sacred images of God. Today, over
600 food items have been offered as a symbol of our
Parsippany, NJ
devotion and gratitude.”
he BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in In addition to the Annakut, the mandir’s Diwali
[Parsippany, NJ] hosted a grand Diwali cel- celebrations featured vibrant decorations, including
Tebration on November 2nd 2024, welcoming handcrafted rangoli designs throughout the prem-
visitors to experience the deep-rooted traditions of ises, adding to the festive decor. Families and guests
the Festival of Lights. It is a time for spiritual re- were able to partake in a variety of youth activities,
flection, rejuvenation, and community celebration, such as fireworks, games, and educational programs
observed by millions of Hindu communities across that engagingly taught the significance of Diwali.
the globe. This year’s Diwali celebration is a continua-
Devotees, well-wishers, and visitors were wel- tion of BAPS’s year-long commemoration of 50
comed into a beautiful environment at the mandir, Years in North America, reflecting on five decades
filled with colorful decorations and the vibrant spir- of cherished memories, sacrifices, and growth.
it of Indian art and culture. Volunteers and devo- Through the pillars of service, culture, faith, values,
tees dedicated weeks of preparation to create an and inspiration, BAPS has not only preserved Hin-
experience that balanced traditional rituals with du traditions but also impacted communities across
contemporary community expressions. the continent and around the world.
Diwali is more than just a celebration of lights— His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj extend-
it’s a time to reignite the values of compassion, to- ed his heartfelt blessings, saying, “May everyone
getherness, and selflessness within our community. find happiness—physically, mentally, and financial-
It reminds us that when we come together, we not ly. May all your noble wishes come true, and may
only share in the joy of the festival but also strength- your firm conviction in God grow stronger, leading
en the bonds that keep our community thriving. to an ever-deepening devotion.”
Parsippany Mayor James R Barberio said community’s devotion. Mandirs across North America hosted festive
“Trust, Loyalty and honesty are important values Preparing for the Annakut is a memorable and celebrations, inviting visitors to join in the shared
for American families and Thanked BAPS com- unique experience every year. It’s not just about the joy of Diwali. The multiple days of Diwali are root-
munity in Parsippany for including him and being food; it’s about the love, unity, and dedication of ed in rich traditions and rituals that represent new
part of BAPS Family. all volunteers we all bring to the table, and how we beginnings and a strengthened commitment to fam-
One of the celebration’s highlights was the come together to create something meaningful for ily. As the lights of Diwali continue to illuminate
‘Annakut’, an impressive offering of hundreds of everyone,” explained Gunatit patel, a volunteer. hearts and minds, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan
vegetarian dishes offered to the Divine as a sym- “The preparation begins very early in the Mandir in [Parsippany, NJ] remains a hub of cultur-
bol of gratitude. The intricate arrangement of food, morning for us,” explained Sonal Patel. “The vege- al and spiritual enrichment, bringing communities
prepared by devotees, young and old, reflected the tarian food is traditionally arranged in tiers or steps together in celebration of love, peace, and goodwill.

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