VOIWORLD
In a powerful display of solidarity, Glasgow’s Hindu community gathered at Mother Earth Hindu Temple for a special prayer meeting to mourn the victims of the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir. The Shaanti Path (peace prayer) ceremony was organised on short notice following the brutal attack that claimed 26 innocent lives in Kashmir on April 23.
Acharya Dr Abhishek Joshi, a respected spiritual leader and advocate for Hindus in Scotland, led the prayer service. The ceremony brought together numerous concerned citizens from across Glasgow who joined to express their grief and stand in solidarity with the families affected by the tragedy.
“This senseless violence has shattered many families and our hearts go out to them during this difficult time,” said Acharya Joshi during the ceremony. “Our prayers today are not only for the departed souls but also for peace to prevail in the region”
The Pahalgam terror attack, which targeted tourists including newlyweds and retirees, has sent shockwaves throughout India and international communities. The victims were reportedly gunned down in front of their families, turning the serene tourist destination into a scene of unimaginable horror.
Mother Earth Hindu Temple, established in 2022 and serving as a vital cultural and spiritual centre for Glasgow’s Hindu community, quickly mobilized to arrange the prayer meeting despite the short notice. Temple representatives stated that the community felt compelled to respond to the tragedy with prayers for peace and healing.
Attendees at the ceremony strongly condemned the terrorist attack, with many expressing hope that those responsible would soon face justice. The gathering also reflected the growing voice of Scotland’s Hindu community, which recently witnessed the Scottish Parliament pass a historic motion condemning Hinduphobia, the first such recognition in UK history.
“When violence strikes anywhere in the world, it affects us all”, one attendee remarked. “Today’s Shaanti Path is our way of sending positive energy to those suffering and standing against the forces of hatred and division”
The community concluded the ceremony with the traditional chanting of “Om Shanti Shanti,” a prayer for universal peace.
