The International Siddhashram Shakti Centre in Harrow marked India’s 79th Independence Day on Friday 15 August with a flag hoisting and cultural gathering that brought people together from across India and the UK.
The day began in the centre’s courtyard where the Indian flag was raised by the Mayor of Harrow, Cllr Anjana Patel, alongside Pankaj Bhai Modi from Gujarat, Pujya Jogi Dada, Shri Chaitnya Shambhu Maharaj, and Guruji. The Indian National Anthem was sung before a lively performance from the Maharashtrian Dhol Tashe team set the tone.
Inside the main hall, guests were welcomed with tricolour caps and shawls to symbolise unity in diversity. The event also included a tribute to VJ Day, remembering the sacrifices of soldiers in the Second World War.
Those attending included Dr Ramdas Athawale, India’s Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, as well as interfaith leaders, councillors, former mayors and representatives from the British Army, Royal Navy, Royal Air Force, Metropolitan Police and St John Ambulance.
Detective Chief Superintendent Luke Williams, the new Commander of the North West BCU, was formally honoured during the event.
Speaking after, Luke Williams said: “It is an absolute honour to be welcomed in this way. I look forward to working closely with all communities, learning from one another, and strengthening our shared values of respect, safety, and unity.”
Guruji praised his commitment to serving the community, adding: “At Siddhashram, we believe in nurturing trust between communities and institutions. By honouring Mr Williams today, we acknowledge his responsibility and express our confidence in his leadership to foster harmony and mutual respect.”
Pankaj Bhai Modi spoke about the atmosphere at the event, saying: “It is now the duty of each one of us, whether living in India or abroad, to support Guruji in his noble mission. He is not just serving the Indian community in Britain; he is serving India itself by upholding and promoting our dharma, culture, and unity at a global stage. For this, I bow to Guruji with the deepest respect and offer my heartfelt gratitude. May his work continue to inspire generations to come.”
Mayor Cllr Anjana Patel thanked Guruji for hosting the annual flag hoisting for the past 12 years, describing Harrow as a proud hub of the Indian community in the UK.
Dr Ramdas Athawale gave his first Independence Day address in London, praising the contribution of the Indian community here and promising to pass on their regards to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He also paid tribute to Dr B.R. Ambedkar’s time in London and highlighted Guruji’s work to uphold Sanatan Dharma abroad.
Guruji spoke about the idea of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (The World is One Family) and announced that Siddhashram will host a Shiv Katha from 18–22 August 2025 in tribute to the victims of the Air India plane crash.
The stage welcomed a wide mix of guests including Harrow Interfaith’s David Cryer, Cllr Janet Mote, former London Assembly Chair Navin Shah, saints from Gujarat, and officers from the armed forces.
The cultural part of the day included children’s dances, songs and speeches from young people, which many felt captured the spirit of the next generation.
Dilip Bhai Chaubal, Trustee of Siddhashram, summed up the feeling of the day, calling it “a living example of how love for one’s roots can flourish thousands of miles away.”
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