On the 17^{th of} June, our Year 8 students embarked on a truly memorable and educational visit to the Shree Kutch Swaminarayan Temple in Bolton. This trip offered a fantastic opportunity for our students to experience a vibrant Hindu place of worship firsthand.

As we arrived, we were immediately enveloped by the lively atmosphere of the Mandir. The vibrant colours used throughout, from the intricate decorations to the deities themselves, truly emphasised it as a sacred and welcoming place of worship. What made our visit extra special was arriving precisely when prayers were underway. This allowed our students to witness devotional chanting and the powerful collective energy of the worship, providing an incredibly immersive and authentic experience. Inside, they observed the wonderfully decorated murtis (deities) and learned about their deep significance in Hindu worship. The visit was further brought to life by three kind volunteers who dedicated their time to explaining various aspects of Hindu faith and practice. Our students had the chance to hear devotional chanting, deepening their understanding of Hindu prayer. The volunteers clearly explained how Hindus worship, detailing the rituals and their spiritual meaning, and clarified why food is offered to the murtis, emphasizing it as an act of devotion and gratitude. They specifically focused on the murti of Vishnu, explaining his important role as a preserver god within the Hindu trinity. Students were encouraged to ask various questions, which led to insightful discussions and deepened their understanding. A real highlight for many was participating in the arti ceremony in groups, a devotional ritual that made the experience interactive and memorable. They were also shown how to pray as a Hindu and heard captivating stories about revered figures like Rama, Sita, Hanuman, and Lakshman, enriching their knowledge of Hindu mythology and values. Our students thoroughly enjoyed their time at the temple and found the visit to be incredibly informative, broadening their horizons and fostering a greater appreciation for diverse cultures and beliefs.