One of the most influential figures during the last century for India is the subject of an exhibition and three days of celebrations at a temple.

Festivities for the birthday of Swami Vivekananda, who contributed to maths, science and yoga, as well as spreading the message of Hinduism, will start on Friday.

Three days of activities are being held at the VHP Hindu Centre, Albert Road, Ilford to mark the 150th anniversary of the Hindu monk.

Vinaya Sharma, a committee member at the temple, said: “He was one of the great figures of the last century and he was the one who brought the Hindu religion to the west. He was so well received.”

About 70 exhibits will be on show documenting Swami Vivekananda’s life and his legacy.

The Vivekananda Exhibition on Ancient Indian Civilisation display is being put on by SV150, a committee formed specially to co-ordinate celebrations.

His contributions to nature and the basic concepts of Hinduism are also depicted by the artwork.

Mrs Sharma said: “He promoted all religions and said if you followed religion then we would have more of a community.

“He thought Hindus should be better Hindus, Muslims be better Muslims and Christians be better Christians and this would promote community cohesion.”

Posters created by the younger members of the temple have also been created with the best being put on display.

The opening ceremony will start tomorrow at 10.30am with MPs Lee Scott and Mikes Gapes together with police borough commander Det Cht Sup Sue Williams.

On Saturday Deputy Mayor Cllr Tania Solomon will open the exhibition for the day at 10am and it will close at 8pm.

Finally on Sunday, the closing ceremony will start at 5pm with Dr Jay Lakhani, director at the Hindu Academy, Wembley and Hindu tutor at Eton College, Windsor, giving a speech which will be followed by dinner.