The world-famous Wembley Stadium, in collaboration with BAPS (Neasden Temple) and the FA, hosted a magnificent and spectacular Diwali celebration. Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, symbolises the triumph of knowledge over ignorance, and “Goodness over Darkness” (GOD).
As part of the Faith and Football series, this was a historic first event, where the festival of lights brought together a unique blend of culture, diversity, and the beautiful game at the iconic home of English football.
The traditional Arti (Ceremony of Lights) was performed pitchside, accompanied by beautiful Indian dances and Bhangra, wonderfully presented by the enthusiastic and energetic volunteers of Neasden Temple.
The event was attended by various Hindu and community leaders. After the traditional lighting of the Diya, the celebration featured speeches and panel discussions with former Liverpool and England football legend John Barnes, along with past Premier League players Jimmy Carter, Michael Chopra, Manisha Tailor, and Anita Asante. They shared their “Words of Wisdom” (WOW) and “Secrets of Success” (SOS) with a passionate audience of nearly 500 people.
The icing on the cake (aside from the delicious satvic (vegetarian) meal prepared by the one and only Shayona Caterers), was the heartfelt pre-recorded speech by FA Chair Debbie Hewitt, where she candidly reflected on her recent visit to Neasden Temple to celebrate the arrival of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, the spiritual head of BAPS globally.
In an emotional speech, Debbie reflected on receiving the warmest welcome and hospitality from all the trustees, volunteers, and well-wishers at Neasden Temple.
Moreover, she highlighted meeting enthusiastic young people who explained the significance of their faith and how football plays a crucial role in making them feel included in their diverse wider society.
It was a great reminder of how football can bring together communities, providing a common universal language across all faiths. At its heart, football is a game for all, irrespective of race, colour, or gender.
Finally, Debbie thanked Neasden Temple for partnering with the FA to organise this historic event at Wembley Stadium, emotionally saying: “I will never forget just how welcomed you made me feel.”
This personally reminds me of one of the famous quotes I use in my Magic of Motivation masterclass, by Maya Angelou: “I have learned that people will forget what you said; people will forget what you did; but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
Thank you, Debbie, the FA, the Board of Trustees of Neasden Temple, and everyone who helped to make the evening such a resounding success. It was a night filled with joy and happiness, resonating with the life mantra of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the founder and inspirer of BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir: “In the joy of others lies your own.”
