King Charles III and Queen Camilla visit London’s Neasden Temple to celebrate its 30th anniversary with the Hindu community (Photo: X | @NeasdenTemple)
Britain's King Charles III and Queen Camilla made a special visit to the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in London’s Neasden Temple on Wednesday (October 29) to mark its 30th anniversary. The royal pair was welcomed warmly by the Hindu community with another instance of cultural bonding between the British royal family and India's diaspora in the UK.
The Neasden Temple opened in August 1995, is Europe's first traditional Hindu stone temple. Its architecture with delicate marble and limestone carvings created by hand by Indian craftsmen, is a testament to dedication, creativity and harmony where every item was carved in India, exported to the UK and carefully pieced together to build this incredible landmark.
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King Charles's fourth visit to the temple was this time around his association with Neasden Temple goes back close to three decades he visited for the first time in 1996, again in 2001 and subsequently toured the temple with Queen Camilla in 2009 when he was the Prince of Wales. His frequent visits are a testimonial to an enduring appreciation of the temple's contributions to promoting cultural cohesion and communal values in Britain.
In a warm speech, Sadhu Yogvivekdas referred to the temple as the home of God and highlighted its place in Britain's spiritual and cultural identity. "In these past 30 years, it has become a part of our great nation, respected not just for its collaboration but for what it represents dedication, scholarship and service," he stated. He also pointed out that these principles reflect the values of Their Majesties, including compassion, humility and respect.
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While visiting, King Charles and Queen Camilla took part in a ritual ceremony, pouring water over a divine portrait of the god with members of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha UK.
The official X (formerly Twitter) account of the temple later posted, "A warm thank you to Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla on their visit to Neasden Temple to celebrate its 30th anniversary. Your visit made this occasion joyful and memorable for the whole community."
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Disclaimer: This article is for informational and editorial purposes only; details are based on verified reports and official statements.
