Spiritual Joy And Sweet Celebrations At Karuna Manor Care Home’s International Mango Festival
Karuna Manor Care Home, Harrow, was filled with devotion, joy, and tropical flavour as residents, families, and staff came together to celebrate the International Mango Festival in a truly unique and meaningful way.
The highlight of the celebration was a special mango-themed pooja (prayer ceremony), honouring the cultural and spiritual significance of mangoes in Indian tradition.
Set in the adorned temple within the care home, the festival opened with a traditional pooja led by residents and supported by carers. The mango, considered sacred in many cultures and often used in religious offerings, took centre stage during the ceremony. The altar was decorated with mango leaves, garlands, and ripe mangoes as offerings — symbolising prosperity, love, and good health.
“Our residents hold deep cultural and spiritual ties to these traditions,” said Home Manager Ruth Kigaa. “By celebrating the Mango Festival with a pooja, we were able to honour both their faith and cherished memories. It was a moment of peace, gratitude, and community.”
Following the spiritual ceremony, the care home transformed into a vibrant festival setting, with mango-themed decorations, traditional music, and the sweet aroma of ripe fruit filling the air. Residents enjoyed singing bhajans (devotional songs) and sharing stories of mango seasons from their childhoods in India, East Africa, and the Caribbean.
“It felt like being back home again,” said one resident (TS), smiling as she participated in the aarti (light offering). “The pooja, the songs, and the mangoes — it all brought back beautiful memories.”
The event was a true reflection of Karuna Manor’s mission to provide person-centred, culturally sensitive care that uplifts the minds and hearts of its residents. The Mango Festival not only celebrated a beloved fruit but also created a spiritual and social space for residents to feel seen, heard, and valued.
The celebration concluded with group prayers for health and happiness, followed by a joyful singalong and a group photo under the mango arch — a memory to cherish for all involved.
Karuna Manor extends heartfelt thanks to families, staff, and volunteers who helped make this beautiful day possible. With its success and meaning, the Mango Festival will now become an annual tradition at the care home’s temple.
