Shri Swaminaryan Mandir, Neasden

105-119 Brentfield RoadNeasden, London NW10 8LD, UKT: +44 (0)20 8965 2651E: info@londonmandir.baps.org

Purpose of the visit

• To develop your understanding of the Hindu Tradition and experience a Hindu place of worship

• To investigate how teachers can develop their own knowledge and understanding in order to assist their pupils

• To reflect on opportunities to learn outside the classroom

Preparation before the visit• In the maha mandap you will see extensive carvings and images of a

variety of deities. These include: Ganesh, http://www.bbc.co.uk/learningzone/clips/hindu-god-ganesh/4798.html Hanuman, Vishnu, Shiva, Brahma, Parvati, Rama and Sita, Krishna, Swaminaryan. You may wish to learn more about some of these deities before your visit. The BBC has a short introduction to Hinduism www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/hinduism/ataglance/glance.shtml

• And a short video clip introducing Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva• http://

www.bbc.co.uk/learningzone/clips/hindu-beliefs-about-god/3616.html • Reonline provides a subject knowledge area on Hinduism for teachers• http://www.reonline.org.uk • select Knowing area, • select What RE, • select Hinduism, • select from Hinduism menu

Structure of the visit• Meet inside the entrance to the mandir at

9.55am• A short film introducing the mandir• A visit to the maha-mandap (inner sanctum)• Observation of worship• Explanation of a visit for primary children• A Q and A session (please prepare questions

before you come and include any which arise during the visit)

Travel arrangements

• Car – there is a large car park opposite the mandir• Leave bags etc. either in your car or at the security

hut in the car park. No bags allowed in the mandir. Airport-style Security check as you enter You may want to bring a pen and paper to make

notes • Tube – Neasden tube station (20 min walk) Stonebridge Park tube station (15-18 mins walk)• Risk analysis and forms on Unihub

Further information

• http://londonmandir.baps.org/visit-us/• http://

londonmandir.baps.org/visit-us/visitor-guidelines

The Mandir is a sacred house of God and a place of daily worship. In the interest of preserving its sanctity and ensuring worshippers can enjoy the spiritual ambience, all visitors are requested to abide by the following guidelines applicable in all areas of the Mandir complex.Dress CodePlease note that a strict dress code operates within the complex. Specifically, tops must cover the shoulders, chest, upper arms, and navel. Leg-wear must be at least below knee-length.ShoesIt is customary to remove footwear upon entering any part of the Haveli complex. Shoe racks are provided within the complex.SecurityPlease respect the security procedures in place for the safety of all visitors. Sharp and dangerous objects are not allowed inside the complex.All bags and cameras should be left in the Baggage Cabin in the car park prior to entering the complex. Please remember to collect your belongings when you leave

Details for the visit

Filming & PhotographyVideos and photos – for personal use only – may be taken from ground level outside the Mandir and Haveli only. Postcards and photographs showing the interior of the Mandir and Haveli can be purchased from the Souvenir Shop.Mobile PhonesPlease switch off mobile phones prior to entering the premises. Mobile phones must not be used to take photos or video footage inside the complex.SmokingSmoking is not allowed on the premises, including in the car parks. Please dispose of cigarettes in the bin provided prior to entering the gates.Food & DrinkNo food or drink is allowed on the premises. Please discard chewing gum prior to entering.ConductPlease refrain from touching the delicate carvings. And please remember that the maha-mandap (upper sanctum) in the Mandir is a quiet zone.

Seating Arrangements During Arti CeremonyThere are separate seating arrangements for men and women inside the maha-mandap (upper sanctum) during the arti ceremony. All visitors are requested to adhere to these arrangements during this time.ChildrenAll children are welcome. However, visitors aged 16 or under must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times.ParkingThere is ample free parking for cars. Disabled AccessRamps for wheelchair access and a lift inside the Mandir are available. Wheelchairs will be provided subject to availability.Please Note: Because of the many special services throughout the year, timings and access for the Mandir are subject to change, sometimes unavoidably without notice. While all reasonable measures will be taken to avoid any inconvenience, the Management apologises if any is inadvertently incurred. The Management also reserves the right to refuse admission to those who do not follow the guidelines and to those who may be inappropriately dressed