New Mandir Project
Welcoming Maharaj To A New Home
A purpose-built Mandir for the next generation — designed to bring our community together, honour our heritage, and create a lasting spiritual home in Oldham.
History of Oldham Mandir
In the late 1960s, Satsangis started to migrate to the UK from places such as Kenya, Uganda and India and began to settle in Oldham. With the thriving cotton mill industry in the North, it provided employment opportunities and relatively affordable house prices compared to London.
With the number of Satsangis growing quickly, Sabhas would be held in a music hall in Werneth Park. Aksharvaas Mahant Swami Shashtri Swami Dharmajeevan Dasji would often send letters alongside Prasad which would be distributed at these Sabhas.
The Mandir was officially opened on 22nd October 1977, with Maharajshri himself presenting a Divine and beautiful Murti of Sahajanand Swami, which has resided in our Mandir ever since. Oldham Mandir was the third Swaminarayan Mandir in the UK and the first to hold Sabhas 7 days a week both morning and evenings.
Search For a New Site
The Satsangis in Oldham Mandir had been searching for a new site for many years, having outgrown the current Mandir which was not able to cater for needs such as parking, a separate hall and kitchen space.
Various sites had been identified and evaluated but were deemed inappropriate. Then with the blessings of Maharaj, Dharmakul and Santos, a perfect site was identified and purchased in 2018 — literally on the doorstep of the existing Mandir.
Our New Mandir
With the new site purchased, work started immediately on the scope, design and planning of the New Mandir complex. A project team of architects, structural engineers, mechanical engineers, Haribhaktos and Santos has worked tirelessly to deliver a vision that creates a space for the Satsang to flourish.
Planning was secured in 2019 and the Khat Muhrat took place at the Mandir's 42nd Patotsav in July 2019.
Key Features
Ghanshyam Maharaj Installation
A sacred home for the divine murti at the heart of the new Mandir.
Spacious Mandir Hall
A naturally lit, modern hall designed for worship, contemplation and community gatherings.
Multi-Purpose Hall
A separate Sahajanand Hall for events, celebrations and community activities.
Eco-Friendly Design
Sustainable construction with energy-efficient systems and environmental responsibility at its core.
Plentiful Car Parking
Dedicated on-site parking to serve the growing congregation.
Open-Air Courtyard
A unique courtyard between the Mandir and Multi-Purpose Hall, with landscaped gardens.
Classrooms & Accommodation
Dedicated spaces for education, Santos accommodation and a modern fully equipped kitchen.
Traditional & Modern Design
Designed by an award-winning architect, blending traditional Swaminarayan aesthetics with contemporary architecture.
Bhuj Mandir Entrance
The front entrance will replicate the front gate of Bhuj Mandir — ensuring we never forget our roots.
The Vision to Build a Mandir in Oldham
The team has worked to develop and design a purpose-built Mandir that would cater to Satsangis of all ages and, importantly, create an outstanding Mandir fit for all — ensuring that Satsangis not only have a place where they can feel closer to Maharaj but also a place where they can come together, socialise and create memories.
The Mandir truly will be outstanding — from the landscaped gardens, to the courtyard, the multipurpose Sahajanand Hall, and the grand Mandir Hall.
How You Can Help
This is Our Project, Our Mandir, Our Maharaj. By coming together and undertaking selfless Seva, we will be able to deliver an outstanding Mandir. Join us on the journey as we welcome Maharaj to a new home.
There are many ways you can provide help, support and Seva throughout the project. To find out more or to donate towards the New Mandir, please get in touch.
Our Project. Our Mandir. Our Maharaj.
Welcome Maharaj to a New Home.