The township formally recognized Diwali and Hindu Heritage Month during a recent celebration at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir temple.
The recognition marked a milestone moment for South Jersey’s Indian-American community. A proclamation introduced by Dr. Priti Mehta and supported by Voorhees Mayor Michael Mignogna and the Voorhees Cultural and Diversity Committee highlighted the township’s growing commitment to cultural inclusion and unity.
“The idea blossomed from a deep sense of pride and a desire to honor our roots,” said Mehta. “When the U.S. declared October as Hindu Heritage Month and Voorhees launched its Cultural and Diversity Committee, it felt like the perfect moment to celebrate this heritage right here at home.”
The community celebration organized by BAPS Cherry Hill drew a large turnout from across the region, including families. It featured an elaborate Annakut display, a traditional offering of hundreds of vegetarian dishes symbolizing gratitude and devotion.
For Mehta, who’s been part of BAPS for nearly a decade, this year’s Diwali held deep personal meaning.
“Knowing this might be one of the last Diwali celebrations in the current main hall before the temple’s renovation made it especially cherished,” she explained. “The theme beautifully reimagined the decades Bhagwan Swaminarayan spent with his devotees.
“It was touching and inspiring.”
Sapana Raval, vice president of the Voorhees-Gibbsboro Lions Club and a member of the Cultural and Diversity Committee, described the celebration as “overwhelmingly positive.”
“The atmosphere was vibrant, filled with joy, laughter, and a sense of togetherness that transcended backgrounds,” she recounted. “Seeing my hometown and our local leaders embrace this tradition filled me with pride and gratitude.”
The temple’s volunteers played a central role in bringing the event to life, and more than 1,000 vegetarian dishes were prepared by families.
Mehta credited the dedication of the BAPS Cherry Hill volunteers and leadership under Rohit Patel.
“It was a breathtaking display of selfless love,” she noted. “When we serve together, we create magic.”
The evening’s energy was said to resonate with attendees, capturing the essence of Diwali: the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.
“It was the spirit of shared joy and positive energy,” Mehta reflected. “Hearing everyone say ‘amazing’ and seeing so many smiles, that collective happiness was the true highlight.”
For Voorhees residents, the township’s recognition of Diwali represents more than a ceremonial gesture, it’s a symbol of belonging.
“It fills my heart with the feeling of, ‘I am home,’” Mehta commented. “This is where the true heart of America beats, where we not only tolerate, but truly live and celebrate unity in diversity.”
Looking ahead, BAPS Cherry Hill and local leaders hope to continue interfaith and cultural events.
“We’re committed to keeping this beautiful momentum going,” Mehta promised.
