The UK High Commissioner to India Alex Ellis and his family visited Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi. High Commissioner Ellis, appointed to this position earlier this month, was traditionally welcomed by Gnanmunidas Swami on behalf of BAPS.
High Commissioner Ellis said, “I have come here today with my family to perform the rituals — puja, arti, abhishek and darshan — to give thanks for our arrival and to hope for the best for our time here in India. I cannot think of a more auspicious place than this temple.” He also noted the important role London’s Neasden BAPS Mandir plays in the UK and throughout Europe.
He spoke highly of the role Indian nationals in the United Kingdom are playing in “protecting us all from Covid-19,” and said he is looking forward to the continued partnership between India and the UK.
High Commissioner Ellis offered his respects at the Swaminarayan Akshardham Mandir and performed abhishek on the murti of Shri Neelkanth Varni.
Along with his family, he viewed the Gajendra Peeth, the Sanskruti Vihar exhibition and the Sahaj Anand multimedia water show.
High Commission Ellis expressed appreciation for the opportunity to visit Swaminarayan Akshardham, “This is a new beginning for me, and seems an auspicious day and auspicious moment to give thanks, and to think ahead and look ahead.”
In his departing note, he added, “[Swaminarayan Akshardham] was a great introduction to the Hindu faith.”