During ISKCON Bhaktivedanta Manor's Diwali, its lake was beautifully lit up with multi-coloured floating diyas (lamps) symbolising the spirit of the Festival of Lights.
Participants were invited to send a diya on a journey along a water-flume which led towards a new statue of Lord Vishnu in the middle of the lake. The main building and haveli basked in the vibrant colours and festive spirit associated with the iconic Krishna Temple in Hertfordshire.
Temple President Her Grace Visakha Dasi reflected upon the special occasion last weekend as a splendid celebration.
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She said: "Pilgrims at Bhaktivedanta Manor celebrated Diwali splendidly. The deities were gorgeously dressed and decorated, inspiring plays, kirtan (devotional music) and katha (tales) went on throughout the day, and as the sun set, pilgrims placed a diya in the lake in honour of the anniversary of Sri Sri Sita and Rama’s glorious return to their transcendental home, Ayodhya."
Devotees have also been on the frontline of special Diwali events across Westminster – from Diwali in London (DiL) celebrations at Trafalgar Square to the House of Commons, Speakers House, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and with the Conservative Friends of India.
At 10 Downing Street Diwali, Her Grace Visakha Dasi recited the Om Ajnana Timirandhasya prayer and explained it by saying that the light of Diwali includes the light offered by knowledge, and in this profound Sanskrit prayer we are offering our respect and gratitude to the many teachers who have opened our eyes, which were covered by the darkness of ignorance, with the torchlight of knowledge.
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The estate now called Bhaktivedanta Manor was purchased by the late Beatle George Harrison for the Hare Krishna movement in 1973. The 80-acre estate at Aldenham in Watford has since been a spiritual sanctuary for the local community and is known for its grand festive gatherings.
*Info: Bhaktivedanta Manor