Last Friday, the Prime Minister visited his local Hindu temple, the Shree Adhya Shakti Mataji Temple, in his constituency of Uxbridge and South Ruislip. During the visit, Mr Johnson learnt about the significance of and preparations for Navratri – one of the largest festivals in the Hindu calendar which starts on 29th September and was presented with a garland, shawl and Sri Yantra (a traditional Hindu symbol consisting of nine interlocking triangles).
Speaking after the visit, the Prime Minister said: “The festival of Navratri marks an important moment in the year, when communities and families from all over the country come together to celebrate the universal message of good over evil. I want to wish everyone celebrating this colourful, joyous and exuberant festival over the next nine days a very Happy Navratri.”
Boris met a number of worshippers to understand the significance of Navratri, including Pritee Varsani and Mira Salat, Directors of Red Lotus Events - organisers of one of the largest Navratri festivals in the UK. Speaking after the visit Pritee said, “It was an honour to explain the significance of Navratri to the Prime Minister. It was also encouraging for young British Asian entrepreneurs like us to be seen as investors of cultural Britain, allowing us to expand and share our heritage with the masses.”
Yatin Dawada, President of the Lohana Community North London said of the visit: “it was a pleasure to meet the Prime Minister. We were all impressed that he took the time out of his remarkably busy diary to meet and engage with various communities like the Lohana Community.”
Veljibhai Vekaria, President of the Shree Kutch Leva Patel Community added: “I was very impressed to see Boris learning and taking part in the preparations for Navaratri, as well as taking the time to meet community leaders.”
