Lights, prayers and music mark Diwali at London's Neasden Temple
Original report:
Neasden Temple in north-west London hosted prayers, music and fireworks as Diwali celebrations began. The BBC's November 2026 report described festivities continuing through Tuesday for the Hindu new year, with more than half a million Londoners expected to celebrate.
Diwali celebrations began at Neasden Temple in Brent with prayers, music and a Sunday fireworks display, according to the BBC's report published on 8 November 2026. The north-west London temple, also called BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, was described as the capital's largest Hindu temple.
The report said celebrations at the temple were continuing until Tuesday, when the Hindu new year fell. Across London, more than half a million people were expected to celebrate Diwali and the new year over the following days. BBC London visited the temple as the weekend festivities got under way.
Diwali's significance extends beyond the celebrations at this London temple. The five-day festival is observed by Hindus, Sikhs and Jains and marks the spiritual victory of light over darkness and good over evil. The report covers one temple's festivities rather than detailing observances across those communities.
Source
bbc.com — 8 November 2026
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