- Monday, May 06, 2024
The celebrations included daily recitals and the distribution of ‘prashad’ among the devotees after an offering was made to be ‘relished’ by the deity.
By: Twinkle Roy
ON the holy occasion of Hanuman Jayanti, marking the birthday of Hindu god Lord Hanuman, a special ceremony was held in Salangpur Dham in Melton Road, Leicester, following six days of festivities.
A priest travelled from India to the UK from India to preside over the celebrations that took place at a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, who is an ardent devotee of Lord Rama but who also served Lord Kirishna & Lord Swaminarayan.
The celebrations included daily recitals and the distribution of ‘prashad’ among the devotees after an offering was made to be ‘relished’ by the deity.
Rajesh Patel, secretary, Shree Hanuman Temple, said, “Our temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman who holds a special place in the hearts of millions around the world. His unwavering devotion, strength, and compassion serve as an inspiration to all.
The event at the temple has been a major uniting force for the bhakts (followers) of Lord Hanuman who mainly originate from the Swaminarayan sect of the religion. Lord Swaminarayan, who is the root behind the Salangpur Hanuman Temple, has millions of devotees around the world (estimated 20 million in 2007).
“We’re proud to once again be holding an event which brings the community together to honour his divine presence,” added Patel.
A few days ago, on the occasion of Ram Navami, the Hindu festival marking the birth of Lord Ram, hundreds of young people gathered at the temple for celebrations. A special event was organised by the youth association, Ramdoot Seva Sangh; Shree Sanatan Temple and the Shree Hanuman Temple. There, devotees of Lord Ram united to chant prayers and participated in prayers, devotional songs and joyful festivities.
The Salangpur Dham in Leicester came into being in 2021, three decades after devotees from the UK visited the century-old Salangpur Hanumanji temple in south Gujarat in India and wished to have a similar place of worship to be constructed for them in the UK.
In 2003, the main saints of the India-based temple visited Leicester and four years later, a charity began hosting religious events in various venues across Leicester. In 2016, a charitable trust was set up and in 2021, the trustees purchased a former police station on Melton Road in the city refurbishing it to best meet the requirements of the community it serves, opening in 2021.
