In a notable tribute to spiritual heritage and shared human values, 10 Downing Street welcomed members of the Jain community to commemorate Mahavir Jayanti.
Hosted by the Prime Minister’s Office in collaboration with the Institute of Jainology (IOJ), the reception brought together an esteemed gathering of Jain leaders, community members, and supporters from across the United Kingdom.
Representing the Prime Minister, the event was attended by Lord Khan of Burnley, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Lords Minister for Faith, Communities and Resettlement), and Gareth Thomas MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Minister for Services, Small Business and Exports).
The programme commenced with a welcome address from Dr Mehool Sanghrajka, Managing Trustee of the IOJ, who invited the ministers to join him in lighting a ceremonial lamp—symbolising spiritual light and enlightenment.
In his remarks, Dr Sanghrajka paid tribute to the late Pope Francis, who had passed away earlier in the week. He recalled the privilege of meeting the Pope at an interfaith conference at the Vatican, where Jain leaders were invited to share their perspectives on global challenges. Dr Sanghrajka spoke with conviction about Lord Mahavir’s message as a guiding force in addressing contemporary environmental, social, and ethical concerns. He expressed heartfelt thanks to the Prime Minister’s Office and IOJ colleagues for bringing the event to life.
Lord Khan also offered condolences on the passing of Pope Francis, whom he had met personally. He praised the principles of Jain philosophy and recalled his recent visit to the Oshwal Centre, describing it as “a place of beauty, serenity, and welcome.” He applauded the IOJ’s advocacy for greater recognition of Jainism, including efforts to secure a Jain tick-box in the national census. Expressing his support, he voiced hope for the day a Jain Member of Parliament would take their seat in Westminster.
Gareth Thomas MP spoke of Mahavir’s teachings as a timeless moral compass and highlighted the Jain community’s significant contributions to British society in business, philanthropy, animal welfare, and environmental stewardship. He commended the IOJ’s role in establishing the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Jainism and shared his involvement in initiatives to promote Gujarati language education. He also welcomed the strengthening of UK–India ties, including ongoing trade negotiations.
The formal programme concluded with a moving recitation of the Navkar Mantra and Manglik, filling the historic halls of Number 10 with an atmosphere of spiritual resonance.
