Blackpool Tower was lit up to mark the centennial birth anniversary of a Hindu spiritual leader.
The tower was bathed in the PSM100 theme colours of red and white on Monday night to honour His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj.
The ceremony took place in the presence of invited guests, including Cllr Kathryn Benson, Mayor of Blackpool and Cllr Neil Darby, Mayor of Preston. The historic event was organised by the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Preston and Fylde Coast Hindu Society.
It was attended by swamis from Neasden Temple in London, members of the local community as well as hundreds of visitors and well-wishers from across the region, who paid tribute to the inspiring life, work and wisdom of Pramukh Swami Maharaj.
This celebration forms part of the global tributes from millions across the world throughout 2022 and follows days after the conclusion of the ‘Festival of Inspiration’ – a ten-day multi feature cultural event at Neasden Temple attended by more than 75,000 people.
His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj (1921-2016) was the fifth spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan.
Pramukh Swami Maharaj visited Blackpool on two occasions – in 1974 and then again in 1977, when he was joined by the current spiritual head of BAPS, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj. Both gurus have provided inspiration to individuals in the region by gifting temples which aim ‘to serve communities, preserve culture and promote harmony’.
Cllr Kathryn Benson – Mayor of Blackpool said the evening had truly been “moving, inspirational and colourful”.
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