It is indeed encouraging to acknowledge that our rich cultural heritage is gaining popularity among wider section of not only ethnic minorities but indigenous people of this great nation. Lustre Hindu festivals like Diwali, Navratri, (Harvest festival) Janmastami (Lord Krishna’s birthday) and now Raksha Bandana is fast gaining popularity. It is mainly due to the influence of Hare Krishna and Swaminarayan temples who celebrate these festivals with panache in long established Hindu tradition that goes back to Lord Rama and Krishna’s time.
Young worshippers from Kingsbury temple celebrated this occasion by inviting members of armed forces from all three divisions, Army, Navy and Royal Airforce who were treated with cultural programme and special vegetarian lunch after the ceremony, wishing them good health and long life. MOD Minister Rt. Hon. Earl Howe appreciated this occasion symbolising special bonds and good wishes that such tradition bestows on members of all faiths, expressing his desire that this will become an annual event, bringing all communities together for common good. This programme was initiated by Hindu network of the Armed Forces who are cementing relations between Army and Hindu community that may encourage our community members to serve in our defence force.
Bhupendra M. Gandhi
By email
