In what is seen as a significant message to the wounded Hindu community under the shadow of Khalistan upsurge during the time of Justin Trudeau, Canadian PM Mark Carney visited the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Toronto on Saturday to join the Hindus as they celebrated the festival of Ram Navami. The temple was a scene of Khalistani vandalism last year.
Upon his arrival, Prime Minister Carney was ‘warmly’ received by the Board of Directors of BAPS Canada and welcomed in a traditional Hindu manner in the Abhishek Mandapam, read the BAPS website.
“The Prime Minister then proceeded to the Mandir, where he admired the architecture and intricate carvings, taking a deep interest in the spiritual and cultural significance of this sacred place,” the website said.
During his visit, the Prime Minister performed the ‘aarti’ ritual and offered flowers and fruits to the idol of the deity.
In his message written in the visitor’s book, the PM said: “With the deepest appreciation for your prayers and hospitality, and with all my conviction to work without fail to promote peace, unity, harmony, and prosperity for Canada, India, and all nations.”
Canada will vote in the federal polls on April 28.
Carney documents temple visit
In his X handle, Carney shared an image of his visit to the temple and wrote: “Joined Hindu community members at the @BAPS_Toronto Mandir yesterday for the first day of Ram Navami celebrations. Thank you for sharing your traditions and culture with me. Happy Ram Navami!”
Canadian Cabinet minister Anita Anand shared images of the PM’s visit to the temple and wrote on her handle, “So pleased to welcome @MarkJCarney on his first visit to @baps_toronto to celebrate the birth of Lord Rama. A very Happy Ram Navami!”
‘Anti–Hindu sentiment in Canada’
The Hindu Canadian Foundation, a non-profit organisation working for the Hindus in Canada, reacted to the PM’s visit to the temple and said the past few years have been challenging for the community, making a possible reference to the rise in activities of Khalistani separatists in the country.
“The past few years have posed significant challenges for the Hindu community, which numbers over a million. Known for abiding by rules and laws, Hindus seamlessly assimilate into the cultures they move to. Despite being among the highest earners and leading successful lives, they maintain a low profile and often refrain from engaging in political decisions. This sometimes leads to underrepresentation, leaving the community vulnerable,” the group wrote on X.
The group said the upcoming government should focus on dealing with the pressing challenge of a spike in anti-Hindu sentiments in Canada.
“The recent surge in anti-Hindu sentiment, fueled by rising separatist groups, has deeply affected every Hindu Canadian. Addressing these pressing issues will be a critical focus for the upcoming government,” the group said.
