The Institute of Jainology (IOJ) and Oshwal Association of the U.K (OAUK) were honoured to welcome the new Hon Minister of Faith, Lord Wajid Khan of Burnley, to the Oshwal Centre and Derasar (Jain temple) at Potters Bar, Hertfordshire on Friday 11 October 2024.
Lord Khan, who was made a peer in December 2021, has previously served as a Member of European Parliament (MEP) for Northwest England and as Mayor of Burnley. Lord Khan has an extensive academic and political background, with faith and community engagement as a consistent theme.
During his visit, Lord Khan was taken on a tour of the Oshwal Centre, the beautiful Jain temple and manicured landscape gardens. He met the community, who were celebrating the Festival of Ayambil – one of the most important festivals in Jainism. He took part in Aarti (prayers) and a Live YouTube session. It was pleasing to note that he was keen to learn about Jainism and interacted with many community members, discussing the tenets of Jainism.
After lunch, Lord Khan met with OneJAIN Community leaders in a closed-door session.
In all, the Minister spend over three hours at the Oshwal Centre. Posting on X (formerly Twitter), Lord Khan stated “Pleasure to visit the beautiful Oshwal Temple and meet members of our Jain community at the Oshwal Centre today to discuss their faith and commitment to promoting equality and peace. I look forward to continuing our collaboration, and ensuring they are recognised and celebrated”
Posted By Kishor B Shah on 12 October 2024
