LONDON, ENGLAND, September 6, 2005: Immigration Minister, Tony McNulty MP, was among several dignitaries invited to celebrate the religious festival of Krishna Janmasthami on September 4 at the impressive Shri Venkateswara Balaji Temple in Birmingham. The temple is developing into one of Europe’s largest Hindu temples. The celebrations were organized by Dr. Narayan Rao of Hindu Council UK, and the guest list consisted of dignitaries from the political, business and religious communities, including Adrian Bailey MP, Lord Bhattacharyya, Lord King, Sri and Gopi Hinduja, Mr. Sangar and Swami Nirliptanandaji. Several Hindu organizations were present, with Dr. Jatangia of VHP and Mr. Bedi of Nirankari Sikh Mandal UK coordinating a representation of about 40 temples and organizations in the West Midlands area. Dr. Sritharan from the Shaiva Federation of Sri Lankan Temples, along with several prominent local temple presidents, including Mr. Prashar, Mr. Chadha and Mr. Baldev Kapil, also graced the occasion.
A ceremonial puja (worship ceremony) was performed in the temple which the Minister seemed already very familiar with, a testament to his interest in the Hindu community. Mr. Sangar presented the Minister with a ceremonial shawl as the priests chanted their mantras. The Minister was then escorted on a quick tour of the temple and after lunch he visited the various marquees. Lord Bhattacharyya politely directed him to see a variety of South Indian culinary delights being cooked, including dosas, vadhas and sambar. Other marquees offered free medical checks, yoga and book stalls and leaflets promoting other temples activities, like the Swami Narayan Neasden’s “Mystic India” film, and so on. There were also lots of children’s activities reminiscent of the baby Lord Krishna at play – and some of which the Minister was happy to participate in to the delight of the children.
Tony McNulty said that this was his first experience of a South Indian Temple, joking that in the south he has visited several North Indian Temples, but that he had to come to the north to see a South Indian Temple! He recalled how only recently the House of Commons celebrated its first Janmashtami and Ramnavami festivals, and how Hindu celebrations were now very much part of the British culture. He concluded by saying that as regards the contribution of the Hindu community in the UK, it is not just confined to temples, celebrations and spirituality, but that the Hindu community gives a lot back to the country and respects other communities. “Our strength as a nation is our respect for each others’ diversity,” he said.
Dr. Jatangia then requested Swami Nirliptanandaji to launch a yoga book written by one of the temple pandits. The Swamiji made the point that in Hinduism it is believed that every soul is part of God, and therefore interconnected, and when we realize this then we are ready to enjoy the bliss of life.