Mayor of London Sadiq Khan thanks worshippers for their support during visit to Shree Swaminarayan Mandir in Kingsbury

The Mayor of London thanked worshippers for their support during his campaign trail during a visit to a temple in Kingsbury.

Sadiq Khan was the guest of honour at celebrations held to mark the second birthday of Shree Swaminarayan Mandir in Kingsbury Road, on Sunday.

Addressing the packed Mandir, Mr Khan said: “The last time I came here I asked for your prayers and for your blessings to carry me through the election.

“I’m pleased to be here as your mayor today to thank you for your

support and for those prayers and blessings.”

Mr Khan was personally welcomed by Acharya Swamishree Maharaj – the global spiritual leader of Maninagar Shree Swaminarayan Gadi Sansthan.

Acharya Swamishree Maharaj explained to Mr Khan the meaning of his name saying: “Sadiq means truthful or honest. The meaning of ‘sa’ ‘dik’ is ‘one who follows God’s direction’; Khan means ‘one who acts with dignity’. The Mayor’s name is completely apt.”

Mr Khan was given a full tour of the Mandir which allowed him to see

the range of sports, educational, cultural and charitable activities that takes place amongst worshippers.

He said: “We’re proud of this community’s amazing work of service to others. This year alone, the community of the Mandir has raised money for St Luke’s Hospice and has held regular blood drives. To date, the total units of blood collected by the Mandir is over 1,700 units.

“And we’re proud of this Mandir’s great work with young people. Not only providing them with a range of activities but demonstrating the values of your faith and how we can all be model citizens in this great city.”

During the visit he was also honoured with the unique Shree Swaminarayan Gadi paagh; a hand-tied turban is reserved for the most eminent leaders in society and recently adorned by Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi during his inauguration rally.