A HUGE crowd of more than 6,000 wellwishers are expected to attend the grand opening of a Bolton Hindu temple which has been transformed into an Arts and Cultural Centre.

For the last two years five artists from India have been working on a 2,400 square foot work of art on the ceiling of the temple in Deane Road.

The magnificent piece includes 48 hand-painted scenes depicting Hindu metrology and Indian culture.

And another highlight of the opening will be the unveiling of a hand carved wooden shrine only seen in India.

To mark the official opening of the Shree Swaminarayan Mandir Temple a five day festival -- a grand Mahotsav -- has been organised from the 16 - 20 of August.

The grand opening will include the unveiling of the mural and the inauguration of the centre by His Holiness the Acharyashree (high priest) from India. The artists and the master carvers who have been working at the centre have learned their skills at the Shree Muktukeevan Swamibapa Arts Institute in India.

Other highlights of the festival will include a spectacular Indian style carnival procession led by the Centre's own Scottish Pipe Band, and a music and drama night.

A host of public figures will be present from all backgrounds and societies, along with followers from all over the world to witness the event.

When the cultural centre is up and running, Chairman of the Temple Committee Mr Ganshyam Patel said: "I would like to invite groups of school children from all over to study here as part of their RE lessons."

He added: "The mural and restoration work has already been well received by the Hindu community and beyond."

Organisers hope that the festival will enhance spirits between surrounding communities bringing people together regardless of race, sex and age.

A special preview evening was arranged to show off the work to Mayor of Bolton Cllr Alan Wilkinson and Bolton South East MP Brian Iddon.

After viewing the shrine Mr Iddon said: "India has come to Bolton and there is no need to go to India for holidays!"

Holy leader Shree Purushottampriyadasji Swamishree also came to view the work at Bolton.