BAPS Mandir Chicago celebrates Diwali with focus on unity, service, and community spirit  

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Bartlett, Illinois:  The BAPS Swaminarayan Temple Chicago celebrated Diwali November 1 and 2,  in Bartlett, Illinois, with a focus on tradition, reflection, and togetherness.

Devotees to guests were welcomed into an elaborately decorated venue showcasing the rich colors and artistry of Indian culture. The mandir’s volunteers spent weeks preparing an immersive experience that blended spiritual traditions with a modern sense of community unity.

Regina Brent, founder and president of Unity Partnership, shared her thoughts on the event: “I am honored to be here today. From the moment I walked through the door, I felt a powerful sense of spirituality that truly touched my soul.”

One of the celebration’s highlights was the massive “Annakut,” a vast arrangement of hundreds of vegetarian dishes offered to the Gods in gratitude. This intricate display, prepared by young and older devotees alike, symbolized devotion and community effort.

“Diwali shows the importance of unity. Collaborating with so many people on this display allowed me to connect with others, appreciate diverse perspectives, and bring a shared vision to life,” BAPS volunteer Ekta Patel said, sharing her experience of working on the Annakut.

The mandir’s festive atmosphere was enhanced with handcrafted rangoli designs and decorations throughout the grounds. Families enjoyed activities like fireworks, games, and educational programs.

This year’s Diwali event also marked BAPS’s ongoing 50-year celebrations of its presence in North America.

As part of its commitment to service, the event included a food drive for the Wayne Township food pantry. “This food pantry provides a hands-on way for visitors to practice service,” said BAPS volunteer Maniya Patel.

In a special message to the community, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj shared his blessings: “May everyone find happiness—physically, mentally, and financially. May your noble wishes come true, and may your faith in God grow ever stronger, deepening your devotion.”

Diwali celebrations are underway at BAPS mandirs across North America.

A volunteer-led spiritual organization, BAPS says it is committed to fostering individual and community growth through Hindu values of faith, service, and harmony. With the dedicated efforts of tens of thousands of volunteers from various backgrounds, BAPS serves more than 115 North American and 3,500 global communities, through activities promoting holistic personal development, social progress, and embracing diversity.