The Shree Swaminarayan Mandir Oldham (SSMO) recently celebrated its 46th anniversary and marked the completion of its first year at its new venue. It has meant that recent weeks at the temple have witnessed a vibrant congregation of community members and visiting monks from India, coming together to honour the milestone with fervour and unity. The celebrations have been characterised by a series of events and activities that have united the community in joy and spiritual reflection.
Throughout the festivities, the community has been treated to sumptuous meals served each evening, fostering camaraderie and friendship among the attendees. A highlight of the festivities was the grand Maha Abhishek of Ghanshyam Maharaj, the temple's main deity. The Maha Abhishek is a sacred ritual involving the ceremonial bathing of the deity's idol with various auspicious substances, symbolising purification, and divine blessings.
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The temple's first year at its new venue has been nothing short of a resounding success. The introduction of a diverse range of initiatives, turning the temple into a vibrant hub of activity. From Zumba and Bhangra classes – and a thriving running club - that promoted fitness and cultural exchange to keyboard, tabla and music classes that nurtured artistic talents, the temple has been a catalyst for personal growth and skill development.
Hitesh Bhudia, President of SSMO, expresses his excitement about the temple's growth and its dedication to community service: "Looking back at the past year, we are immensely proud of the initiatives we've launched. From cultural classes to charitable partnerships, we've seen the impact of our efforts in enriching lives and fostering connections. Our partnership with Maggies Oldham is a testament to our commitment to giving back to the wider community. We look forward to another year of growth, both spiritually and in service."
Looking ahead, the temple is gearing up to celebrate Krishna Janmashtami (Lord Krishna's Birthday) on the 7th of September, an occasion that holds immense significance in Hindu tradition and a prominent time in the Hindu calendar.
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One of the highlights of the temple's calendar has been the introduction of "Thali Evenings" - a monthly tradition where traditional Indian cuisine is savoured, providing an authentic culinary experience to all attendees. The upcoming Thali Evening on September 23rd promises to be a feast for the senses.
Contributing to the wider community is one of the main aims of the temple. Through a series of well-attended events, the temple has raised over £5,000 for Maggie’s Oldham – their charity of the year. Moreover, the temple's facilities continue to play a pivotal role in fostering community engagement; its multi-function hall and spacious classrooms have become a hub for various sports activities and welcoming local businesses for meetings and gatherings.
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The temple's future holds the promise of more excitement and innovation. A slew of upcoming programs, ranging from cooking classes to badminton lessons tailored for the youngest members of the community, are sure to keep the momentum going.