It was pomp and colour for thousands of Hindu women devotees who gathered at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Complex in Nairobi for the silver jubilee celebration of the temple.
The event, which brought devotees from across the country and beyond, was characterized by performances centred on various thematic areas that align with the BAPS community.
The celebration was in honour of the Mandir, a temple, located off Wangari Maathai road in Nairobi that was turning 25 years after completion of its construction.
"This event was for female devotees who reside in various parts of the country. We have several devotees, from Nakuru, Kisumu, Kitale, Eldoret and Mombasa among many other parts of the country," BAPS Women Wing Lead Dipa Gudka said.
The performances not only served as an opportunity to display talent but also an avenue to remind women of the acts of selfless service they ought to offer to society.
Under the theme "Making a Temple Within", the event allowed devotees to reflect on their spiritual journey and appreciate the role the Mandir has played in their community development.
"The session encouraged us to focus on spiritual growth, strengthening our values and how we can positively contribute to the family and world around us," Riya Patel, a participant, said.
Even as attendees were treated to a magnificent cultural and religious exhibitions, women also were reminded of the importance of self-care, resilience and empowerment in their religious journey.
"This Mandir has benefited members of our community in terms of productivity, leadership and communication skills," Virali Patel, a volunteer, said.
"Girls have learnt so much through various programmes."
National Chairperson of the Hindu Council of Kenya Sujatha Kotamraju graced the event during which she lauded the importance of passing vital knowledge and culture to the next generation through such events.
"Culture is very important. It is very important to maintain culture for the youth and children so that it can transcend generations," she said.
The celebration came a day after thousands of devotees on Sunday turned up at Jamhuri High School grounds for silver jubilee celebrations for the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Nairobi.
His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, who arrived in the country on December 31, 2024, led the BAPS faithful in marking the rosy occasion.
The celebration was marked with pomp and colour as devotees staged enticing performances in honour of the Mandir and His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj.
The Sunday event brought together devotees from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, South Africa, India and the US among many other countries.