The Coronation of King Charles III brought together diverse communities of the UK and different faith communities celebrated in their own unique ways.
A group of British Hindus organised a havan (fire sacrifice) ceremony at Lloyd Park in South Croydon, south London, led by Hindu activist and campaigner Nitin Mehta, head of the Indian Vegetarian and Vegan Society.
Speaking to iGlobal about where the inspiration for a havan came from, Mehta explained the significance of the ceremony in the Hindu culture.
“The inspiration comes from our ancient scriptures where important events were inaugurated with a havan. The holy fire of the havan not only removes all the negative energies and darkness, it also it blesses the occasion with good fortune and guides one on the path of Dharma.
“The havan sought blessings for the King and the Queen for a long, happy life in which they will do the best for the people of the country and the Almighty will guide them on the right path,” explains Mehta.
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The havan was performed by Praneshwar Das from ISKCON UK and included Sanskrit chants and hymns as well as Bharatnatyam and Garba performances to further celebrate the historic occasion. A letter from the royal palace to the organisers was also read out.
“Around 100 people came despite the persistent rain. We also invited King Charles’ representative Colonel Ray Wilkinson and his wife Liz. He praised the Indian community for their contribution to the country,” said Mehta.
It was one of many such community events organised by British Indians across the UK to celebrate Coronation and offer the new King their best wishes.
The Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in London, popularly known as Neasden Temple, marked the occasion with a special tribute event led by Yogvivekdas Swami, Head Swami of the Temple and BAPS UK, and Mahant Swami Maharaj, who wrote a personal letter to the King to extend his warmest congratulations.
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A ‘Coronation Pooja’ – which included prayers, a children's presentation and a home-cooked Indian meal – was organised later in the day by the Exeter Hindu Cultural Centre.
ONEJain – an initiative of the Institute of Jainology to represent all UK Jain Organisations in government and interfaith matters – organised an online ‘Samuh Aarti and Mangal Divo’ event to pray for King Charles III’s health and long reign.
