A Chigwell temple combined the lighting a jubilee beacon with the offering of peace prayers to a sacred flame.

More than two thousand beacons were lit by community groups, charities, and faith groups all over the UK and in all 54 Commonwealth capitals last Thursday.

At Chigwell Hindu temple Swaminarayan Mandir the June 2 lighting ceremony coincided with the start of a series of yagnas, which are peace prayers offered to a sacred flame.

Read more

Lead temple volunteer Sheena Amin-Patel said: “Her Majesty’s longevity of leadership has provided comfort and assurance to the nation.

“We are delighted to have all BAPS Hindu mandirs around the UK join in the international celebrations and pay tribute to her seven decades of uncompromising public service.”

The beacon was lit by Chigwell Parish Council chair Cllr Celina Jefcoate.

Epping Forest Guardian:

Alongside the beacon lighting, the programme included young children reciting peace prayers, a speech from Cllr Jefcoate, and the national anthem.

Swaminarayan Mandir, Chigwell, was established in Mandir Lane in 2017. It provides educational, community and spiritual activities for children, youths, families and the elderly.

It is also a focal point of worship for thousands of Hindus in the Essex and East London area.