At a time when there is much talk for us about construction timelines, the Mandir (or temple) was built in two-and-a-half years at a cost of £12 million, all from charitable donations and a volunteer workforce.
It is a magnificent building constructed from oak, limestone and marble and one that I would highly recommend visiting. Jonathan Edwards and I enjoyed talking about the Olympic project to such a real, warm and enthusastic audience – it was an honour to be there.
My team and I also ate the most delicious Indian meal, which was a great way to end the day marking 2012 days to go until the Games.
I left pondering on the fact that we would not be able to stand marvelling at the spectacular architecture of the temple, and the beautiful creations around us, had it not been for the volunteers that worked within such a professional structure to create something so beautiful in such a short space of time.
I think we can learn a lot about the dedication of volunteers from the Neasden Temple and the importance of engaging with young people.
