On Thursday 27th August 2015, the Oshwal Association of the UK celebrated the 10th anniversary of the first Shikharbandh Jain temple in Europe, situated in Northaw, Herts. The four-day celebration comprised of stage performances to Bhajans, and ending with the traditional raas garba. There were many dignitaries who had attended the launch to the 4-day celebration of the 10th anniversary.
There was also a play showcased during the celebrations, called Maina Sundari, produced and directed by Bindi Rashmi Shah, from Nairobi. It was a religious play based on a Jain epic.
On her association with the Oshwal Association, Bindi Rashmi Shah, said, “I was approached by the Oshwal Association of the UK because I have done several plays and programmes I continuously do that in Nairobi; it is my passion. They approached me to come and do one production for them.”
Oshwals are largely followers of the Jain faith and the teachings of Lord Mahavir. There are an estimated 5 million Jain in the world, and the Oshwal community is 100,000 across the world. The UK has the largest Oshwal community outside of India, with approximately 26,000, largely residing in Greater London and the South East.
Ashokbhai Shah, who was elected as the President of the committee in 1996 said, “This community has given me everything that I have and I am happy to give it everything I have because without this community, I am nothing...”.
Councillor Martin Worster, Mayor of Hertsmere was also present at the celebration launch. He said, “I'm delighted to be invited here... I'm delighted to be here with you to share your 10-year celebration.”
He continued, “This country prides itself on religion. We are very diverse and we're very receptive to freedom of worship, which is very important. It brings people together; not just this faith but all faiths.”
Lord Popat was also present at the event and spoke about his liking for smaller temples, like the Shikharbandh Jain temple, instead of building greater establishments. He said, “This is my personal view, I'm not for building new temples. I'm for building new toilets rather than temples. But what I do support: I support community centres and small temples, like what you have here... I'm really please to see that you have a great small temple there; I've been there a couple of times myself.”
The location has been very popular as a wedding destination for many Jains and Hindus as well. They believe that temple makes it auspicious and makes them feel blessed while tying the knot.
