On behalf of the worldwide BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu fellowship, BAPS Hindu mandirs around the UK joined the nation in offering a heartfelt tribute to Her Majesty The Late Queen Elizabeth II with a special prayer assembly in memoriam of her life of service over the weekend of 10-11 September 2022.
Worshippers and visitors offered their personal respects before joining an assembly of special prayers of remembrance and peace by swamis and young children. The tribute also included a presentation of Her Majesty’s inspiring life and an observance of a minute’s silence to honour the profound dignity, selfless dedication and steadfast courage with which she served the United Kingdom and 56 Commonwealth nations for 70 years.
His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj had written a personal
letter of prayer and condolences to His Majesty King Charles III. This letter was shared with the congregation and His Majesty’s longstanding connection and friendship with the BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu fellowship, spanning several years, was fondly remembered.
Prayers were also offered for the continued good health of His Majesty, and that he is blessed to serve the country – all its people, of all faiths and backgrounds – and the entire Commonwealth of Nations with integrity, peace and harmony, in the abiding legacy of his great mother.
Bhavisha, one of the worshippers who attended the service in London, described it as “indeed poignant” and The Queen as “an incredibly inspirational woman to the Hindu community.”
Dipesh added, “It is wonderful just entering the Temple and seeing The Queen’s photo there with a candle lit, and everyone folding their hands as we do in our tradition and paying their respects – as if she was one of us.”
Tarun Patel, one of the volunteers who helped with the prayer assemblies, explained, “Her Majesty connected universally with compassion and warmth across many generations. It was wonderful to see so many people – from young children through to grandparents – take an opportunity to offer their personal tributes and prayers for Her Majesty.”