Diwali at BAPS Mandir in Bartlett, Illinois: Honoring Tradition and History

Bartlett, Illinois, October 51, 2025 :
The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Bartlett, Illinois hosted a grand Diwali celebration, inviting the community to experience the traditions and joy of the Festival of Lights. Observed by millions of Hindus worldwide, Diwali is a time for reflection, renewal, and celebration with family and community. 

This year’s celebrations highlighted the theme of unity, emphasizing the values of harmony, compassion, and togetherness that Diwali inspires. The festival served as a reminder that when individuals and families come together, they strengthen not only their own bonds but also the fabric of the wider community. 

“I was deeply inspired by the exhibition and the message of unity so beautifully demonstrated,” shared 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.” 

In preparation for the celebration, volunteers dedicated weeks of effort to create a vibrant atmosphere at the mandir. The grounds were adorned with colorful decorations, intricate rangoli designs, and displays of light, offering visitors an immersive cultural and spiritual experience that reflected both devotion and artistry. 

A central feature of the festival was the ‘Annakut,’ or “mountain of food,” in which hundreds of vegetarian dishes prepared by devotees of all ages were beautifully arranged and offered to the Divine. The Annakut served as a symbol of gratitude and devotion while also showcasing the dedication and collective spirit of the community. 

“My favorite part was the Diwali setup — especially decorating the mandir. 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,” shared Radha Patel, a young volunteer. 

Beyond the rituals, the celebration engaged families and guests of all ages with activities such as fireworks, interactive exhibits, and educational programs that conveyed the meaning of Diwali. These experiences fostered learning while building connections across generations. 

Reflecting on the celebration, Meghan Paulas, of American Constitution Society (ACS) shared, “I was so honored to visit BAPS Chicago for this year's Diwali celebration. My 4th 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.” 

His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj shared his Diwali blessings, encouraging all to let the light of unity shine brightly in their lives. He explained, “Pramukh Swami Maharaj has taught us that true unity begins

with self-reflection. 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.” 

BAPS mandirs across North America joined in hosting Diwali celebrations, offering a space for spiritual reflection, cultural appreciation, and community unity. As the lights of Diwali continue to inspire, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Bartlett, Illinois remains a place where individuals and families come together to celebrate tradition, strengthen values, and foster goodwill. 

About BAPS 
BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (B.A.P.S) is a volunteer-driven spiritual organization committed to fostering individual growth through Hindu values of faith, service, and harmony. It enriches society with the devoted efforts of tens of thousands of volunteers from diverse professional and social backgrounds, contributing millions of volunteer hours annually. Under the spiritual leadership of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, BAPS nurtures Hindu traditions through its over 120 mandirs in North America and over 5,000 centers worldwide. Through these communities, it champions holistic personal growth, promotes social progress, and encourages diversity by embracing all. For more details, visit www.baps.org. 

About Mahant Swami Maharaj 
His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj is the sixth and current spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. He was ordained a swami by Yogiji Maharaj in 1961 and named Sadhu Keshavjivandas. As he was appointed the head (Mahant) of the Mandir in Mumbai, he became known as Mahant Swami. His devout, humble, and service-focused life earned him the innermost blessings of Yogiji Maharaj and Pramukh Swami Maharaj. Mahant Swami Maharaj travels throughout the world inspiring people through his insightful spiritual discourses and disciplined conduct. His virtuous lifestyle and profound devotion to Bhagwan Swaminarayan and gurus are ideals toward which devotees strive. Mahant Swami Maharaj became the guru and President of BAPS upon Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s passing in 2016.