TEMPLES, mosques and synagogues have been buzzing with activity as followers mark religious milestones.

Hindu groups gathered to mark the birthday of God Krishna.

The anniversary fell in early September but was still being celebrated up to a week later.

Redbridge Gujarati Welfare Association joined for prayers and music at Ilford Methodist Church, Ilford Lane, Ilford.

They paid homage to the supreme God with a shrine and candles.

Lord Krishna is considered to be a warrior, hero, teacher and philosopher by Hindus.

His birthday – called Janamashtami festival – is celebrated with great importance and consideration by followers.

Redbridge Asian Mandal gathered at the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, Cleveland Road, Ilford. They followed the traditions of the event by dressing a baby in the style of Krishna and said prayers.

Committee member Ben Gadhia said: “We had about 350 people there. It’s a very important event so a lot of people came.

“We also had disabled and elderly members of the community who might otherwise be isolated. They all seemed to enjoy it.”

Elsewhere in the borough synagogues were packed out for Rosh Hashanah (Jewish New Year).

Rabbi David Hulbert, of Bet Tikvah synagogue, Perryman’s Farm Road, Newbury Park, said it is always very popular.

“Barkingside was a very quiet place,” he said.

At Jewish Care’s nursing home, Vi and John Rubens House, Clarence Avenue, Gants Hill, residents created Rosh Hashanah themed-collages, which will go on display at the home.

As well as the creation of life, the festival marks the start of the 10 “Days of Awe” leading up to Yom Kippur, the day of atonement.

Simon Morris, chief executive of Jewish Care, said: “I am delighted to see so many of our clients clearly enjoying Rosh Hashanah at Jewish Care.”

In Valentines Park, Ilford, thousands of Muslims joined in Eid prayers, which marked the end of Ramadan fasting.

The event included exhibitions about the Islamic faith, presentations by dignitaries, community and faith leaders, and fundraising by a leading relief charity for the Pakistan flood disaster.