Our Liberal
Arts students, currently studying at our International College of Further
Education, went on a study visit to London to visit BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, popularly known as the 'Neasden
Temple', Europe's first and largest traditional Hindu temple.
The group
viewed the ‘Understanding Hinduism’ exhibition, and listened to a video
detailing the history and building of the Mandir. They also attended Ãrti, a
ceremony when lighted lamps are waved before the sacred images, and Darshan,
which is the viewing of the sacred images in the shrine. They then discussed religious diversity
in Britain in the 20th century and the secularisation theory –
whether Britain is becoming more secular.
Karen Heath, St. Clare's History teacher, said: "The Mandir
is very beautiful and highly ornate. I think we all appreciated the opportunity
to visit a functioning place of worship, to learn something more about the Hindu
faith, and multicultural London."
Student Camilla Johnston, said: "It was really interesting to visit the temple as it is
something a bit off the ‘tourist’ map of London. Since this is such a large and
growing community in the UK, it was quite nice to learn about their religion and
culture."
St. Clare's Liberal Arts Programme is for university undergraduates and gap year students from
all over the world who want the opportunity to study abroad in one of the most
celebrated cities in the world – Oxford.