Press Release

Bartlett, IL: The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Bartlett, Illinois, illuminated the night sky on October 19, 2025, as hundreds gathered to celebrate Diwali — the Hindu Festival of Lights. Recognized worldwide as a time of reflection, renewal, and rejoicing, Diwali serves not only as a spiritual milestone but also as a cultural celebration that unites families and communities. This year’s theme of unity resonated deeply throughout the festivities, emphasizing harmony, compassion, and togetherness as guiding lights in a diverse and interconnected world.

The mandir’s celebration began weeks before Diwali itself, as dedicated volunteers worked tirelessly to transform the temple grounds into a radiant spectacle of devotion and artistry. Intricate rangoli designs, vibrant floral arrangements, and shimmering displays of light adorned every corner, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Visitors were welcomed into an atmosphere that blended beauty with spirituality — a hallmark of BAPS’s devotion-driven service.

At the heart of the celebration stood the traditional Annakut, or “mountain of food,” a breathtaking offering of hundreds of vegetarian dishes lovingly prepared by devotees of all ages. Each dish represented gratitude and devotion, expressing the community’s collective spirit and reverence for the divine. The Annakut was not merely a culinary display but a profound spiritual act — one that reflected the harmony between faith and service, and between individual effort and collective purpose.

“My favorite part was the Diwali setup — especially decorating the mandir,” shared Radha Patel, a young volunteer who helped prepare for the festival. “I loved seeing people of all ages come together to create a stunning exhibition and rangoli. It truly showed how our collective efforts can create the brightest and most harmonious results.”

The sense of unity extended beyond the temple walls. Guests from across the Chicagoland area, representing diverse cultural and professional backgrounds, gathered to experience the festival’s timeless message. Interactive exhibits, educational displays, and traditional rituals offered visitors a deeper understanding of Diwali’s spiritual significance. Fireworks lit up the night sky, symbolizing the triumph of light and knowledge over ignorance. Families shared laughter, reflection, and a shared sense of gratitude.

“I was deeply inspired by the exhibition and the message of unity so beautifully demonstrated,” said Krishna Somayajula, partner at Bain Consulting. “A special shoutout to the youth who shared those messages with such passion and conviction — it truly reflected the cultural spirit of the celebration.”

For many attendees, the event was not only a cultural experience but a personal one. “I was so honored to visit BAPS Chicago for this year's Diwali celebration,” said Meghan Paulas of the American Constitution Society. “My fourth-grade son joined me and was amazed by the rangoli! I was inspired by the unity theme, and will take the lesson forward at work and at home.”

Central to the celebration were the blessings of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, spiritual leader of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, who shared a profound message of introspection and harmony. “Pramukh Swami Maharaj has taught us that true unity begins with self-reflection,” he said. “I must first strive to uphold unity without expecting it from others. Though it may bring challenges, unity can be nurtured through patience, listening, setting aside one’s own opinions, and being flexible.” He further blessed, “May all your noble wishes be fulfilled, and may your conviction in God grow stronger, leading to ever-deepening devotion.”

The Bartlett celebration was one of many held across North America at BAPS mandirs, each offering a sacred space for reflection, renewal, and service. These events continue to connect generations, foster intercultural understanding, and remind communities of the universal values that Diwali upholds — peace, unity, and compassion.

As the final lamps flickered at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Bartlett, their glow seemed to carry more than light — it carried hope. Hope that unity, nurtured in the spirit of Diwali, will continue to brighten hearts and homes, reaffirming the timeless truth that when communities come together in faith and service, the world shines a little brighter.