A PRAYER ceremony for world peace was held on London’s iconic Tower Bridge on August 30 on the occasion of Janmashtami, which marks the birth of Lord Krishna. During the event, HH Rajrajeshwar Guruji presented Shri Bhagavad Gita to Angela McClaren, the assistant commissioner of London City Police. The event was sponsored by Sanskar TV, Sairam Villa and Karma Foundation, UK.
Observing the ceremony on the auspicious occasion of Janmashtami was something that Guruji, who is the founder of the International Siddhashram Shakti Centre, had envisaged some years ago. It was the first time ever that Janmashtami celebrations were held with Chalisa and Shiv Abhishek for world peace and harmony.
HH R Guruji and assistant commissioner of City of London Police Angela McClaren pour water on a Shivling on the Tower Bridge, London, on August 30, 2021. (Picture credit: International Siddhashram Shakti Center)
During the event, Guruji led a group of devotees and other community leaders to make the first-ever public offering to Lord Krishna right in the heart of the city of London – on the Tower Bridge with the River Thames flowing below. The idea was to promote world peace and harmony on the day of the birth of Lord Krishna.
Guruji conducted the abhishek (inauguration) of the Shivalinga and he was assisted by McClaren and noted radio personality Ravi Sharma. A priest helped them with the procedure. Guruji also read out the Hanuman Chalisa while playing traditional instruments while the devotees sang bhajans (devotional songs).
The Tricolour of India as well as Hindu religious flags were seen fluttering at the site.
A participant presents a dance on the occasion of a prayer ceremony for world peace held on the Tower Bridge, London, on August 30, 2021. (Picture credit: International Siddhashram Shakti Center)
Several dignitaries including councillors and community leaders were present at the ceremony and gave short speeches. Former GLA chair Navin Shah, GLA member Cllr Hirani, former mayors Bhagwanji Chohan and Ajay Maru, former deputy mayor of Southwark Cllr Chopra, Sandip Ruparelia, managing director, Angel Care / MNS Care PLC, Samji Patel from Jaysam others members.
Mike Reed, the chair of City of London Police and his wife Sejal Reed, who served in Harrow, were also present.
McClaren, who will be the new commissioner from December 2021 and Sonoo Malkani, the chair of Harrow Interfaith, also addressed the event.
Bob Blackman MP speaks during the event