King Charles III and Queen Camilla visited the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in London, popularly known as Neasden Temple, to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Europe’s first traditional Hindu stone temple. The royal couple’s visit drew widespread appreciation from the UK’s Indian community, with many calling it a gesture of cultural respect and unity.
A royal visit steeped in tradition
On their arrival, the King and Queen were greeted by children waving flags and singing “Jai Swaminarayan.” The couple removed their shoes before entering the temple, following Hindu custom, and were welcomed with a traditional aarti ceremony led by temple priests.They then walked through the marble and limestone halls, pausing to admire the intricate carvings and artwork depicting scenes from Hindu scriptures. Volunteers explained how the temple was built from hand-carved stone imported from India and assembled in London by hundreds of craftsmen in the 1990s.
Celebrating 30 years of faith and service
The visit marked the temple’s 30th anniversary, commemorating three decades since its inauguration in 1995 by Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the spiritual leader of the BAPS organization. Over the years, Neasden Temple has become a cultural landmark in London, welcoming millions of visitors annually and serving as a hub for humanitarian and community initiatives.The King and Queen met senior BAPS leaders who briefed them on the temple’s contributions to British society, including charity drives, blood donation campaigns, and youth outreach programs.In his address, King Charles praised the temple as a “symbol of harmony and devotion” that has strengthened interfaith ties in the UK. He also thanked the Hindu community for its “extraordinary contribution to national life.”
Queen Camilla’s graceful presence
Queen Camilla was seen dressed in a soft cream outfit with a light shawl, complementing the serene atmosphere of the temple. She joined the King in lighting a ceremonial lamp and took part in prayers alongside community leaders. Photos of the royal couple bowing respectfully before the deity quickly went viral, earning praise for their humility and warmth.
Connection with Diwali celebrations
The royal visit came just days before Diwali, making it especially meaningful for the British-Indian community. Many viewed the occasion as an acknowledgment of the festival’s importance and a reminder of the monarchy’s long-standing connection with India.Members of the BAPS organization also shared that the King’s message of “unity through faith” aligns with the temple’s mission of promoting peace and service beyond religious boundaries.
A long-standing bond
King Charles’s connection with the Hindu community goes back decades. As Prince of Wales, he visited Neasden Temple in 1997 and has spoken frequently about his admiration for India’s cultural and spiritual heritage. This latest visit marked his first return as monarch, reinforcing continuity and goodwill.The BAPS Mandir, often described as “Britain’s first Hindu temple built in traditional stone,” has hosted several dignitaries over the years, including heads of state, British prime ministers, and international faith leaders.As the royal couple departed, they were presented with garlands and blessed by temple saints. Videos of the King folding his hands in a traditional namaste gesture were widely shared, with viewers praising the gesture as heartfelt and sincere.
