First crematorium in UK to have dedicated Shiva shrine

A Leicestershire crematorium claims to be the first in the UK to have a dedicated shrine to Shiva.

The Great Glen Crematorium is part of Westerleigh Group, an independent owner and operator of crematoria and cemeteries, with 35 sites nationwide.

Local businessman Sailesh Raja has donated a white marble statue of Lord Shiva.

"I thought having a dedicated shrine would be a great service to the local community," he said. "Most crematoriums have temporary shrines, but I believe this was the first to have a permanent one.

It is very important to the local community, as it is said that Lord Shiva is an inhabitant of the cremation ground."

Site Manager at Great Glen Crematorium, Harvey Watson, said: “At Great Glen, we have fantastic support from the Hindu and Sikh communities. I believe it’s important that we do what we can to offer them an opportunity to honor their lost loved ones in a way that is reflective of their beliefs.

Great Glen Crematorium opened in 2017 and is set within 30 acres of landscaped grounds and gardens.