Diwali, the Hindu New Year, is a time of year when people come together and share the joy in their lives. They put aside their differences and work towards fostering a sense of community all around them. It is an eagerly awaited holiday for Hindus all over the world and is celebrated with grand festivals.

On Sunday, October 18th, 2009, disciples of Shree Swaminarayan Temple, New Jersey celebrated the Diwali festival. Hundreds of disciples from all over the United States had gathered for the celebration. During the festival, a grand annkut, which consisted of hundreds of different Indian and international delicacies disciples had prepared, was offered to Lord Swaminarayanbapa Swamibapa, Disciples also performed kirtan-bhakti and offered aarti to the Lord. Afterwards, prasad was served to everyone.

The other mandals of Shree Swaminarayan Gadi across the United States as well as the Canada mandal held Diwali celebrations as well to please the Lord during this auspicious time of year.