Los Angeles Hindu Temple Hosts Interfaith Diwali Celebration Uniting Diverse Communities
- Dr. K. J. Srinivasa, the inaugural Consul General of India in Los Angeles, delivered opening remarks highlighting the power of such gatherings to build bridges across communities.
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Los Angeles brought together diplomats, faith leaders, and community members from across Southern California for an interfaith Diwali celebration that emphasized unity and cultural harmony.
The event, called Sangam, welcomed representatives from nine consulates, multiple religious traditions, and civic organizations to mark the Hindu festival of lights, which symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness.
Dr. K. J. Srinivasa, the inaugural Consul General of India in Los Angeles, delivered opening remarks highlighting the power of such gatherings to build bridges across communities, according to a press release from the temple. California Governor Gavin Newsom sent a message extending Diwali greetings and recognizing the Mandir’s role in promoting unity and service.
The celebration began with guests touring the intricately carved temple before gathering outdoors for a gala that featured interfaith prayers, cultural reflections, and a traditional vegetarian meal.
The interfaith portion of the program opened with a land acknowledgment and prayer from members of the Gabrieleno/Tongva San Gabriel Band of Mission Indians, followed by reflections from leaders representing Sikh, Zoroastrian, Jain, Christian, Muslim, Buddhist, Hindu, and Indigenous communities.
Pujya Paramtattvadas Swami of BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in London delivered a video address reflecting on the organization’s global interfaith initiatives and encouraging continued collaboration as Los Angeles prepares to host the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“When faith communities come together, we illuminate the world far beyond our own walls,” he said in the address.
Attendees included representatives from the consulates of India, Armenia, El Salvador, Switzerland, Cambodia, Dominican Republic, South Africa, Lithuania, and Myanmar, as well as members of the LA28 Cultural Olympiad Committee, local universities, and community organizations.
The event emphasized the temple’s mission to unite communities through faith, culture, and service, organizers said.
