On the 28 July 2016, Metropolitan Police Hindu Association hosted the Guru Purnima at the New Scotland Yard under the leadership of Chairperson and Forensic Practitioner, Varsha Kumari Mistry.
The Chief Guest, Assistant Commissioner Martin Hewitt, head of Territorial Policing, was traditionally welcomed by Vetting Officer Pieten Mepani with a jasmine garland. Mr Hewitt opened the event by the lighting of a candle and showering petals on the Paduka (wooden sandals symbolic of the Guru).
Guest speakers at the celebration included Chief Superintendent Simon Ovens, the Harrow Borough Commander; Chief Superintendent Victor Olisa, the Diversity and Inclusion Lead in the Metropolitan Police Service; PC Dipesh Raithatha, DC Nainesh Desai, Dr Manish Tayal - Surgeon Lieutenant Commander Royal Navy, Devi Saraswati Mishra - Spiritual leader from India and Subhash Thakrar - former President of London Chamber of Commerce.
