A special prayer led by Bradford’s Hindu community saw The Queen remembered as “a guiding force” in the nation’s history.
The Indian Women’s Community UK (IWCUK) were joined by people of all faiths for the commemorative prayer at Leuva Patidar Samaj Temple.
The centre, based on Legrams Mill Lane, was filled with the sound of sacred Hindu prayers, chants and heartfelt speeches on Wednesday.
Deputy Lieutenant Sofia Buncy also attended the special prayer as a representative for Ed Anderson, Lord Lieutenant for West Yorkshire.
“It was a very emotional atmosphere,” Indu Dharni, chairwoman of IWCUK in Bradford said.
“Everyone felt they’ve lost someone really important in their family like a mother.
“The feeling was just very sombre.
“It was a normal Hindu prayer, one of many Hindu prayers, that we performed to give her soul harmony and peace.
“It brought communities together.”
Speaking to attendees at the prayer, the Deputy Lord Lieutenant said: “The way the nation has responded to Her Majesty's passing away demonstrates how the Queen was a constant in so many people's lives, a guiding force and one of comfort and stability throughout her 70 Years reign.
“People from different walks of life, from different cultures, faiths and ages have come together. It seems the nation has been galvanized and united. This shows the high regard and affection with which Her Majesty was held both in the UK and the international community.
“Her Majesty had visited Bradford on several occasions throughout her reign and one of those occasions included the opening of the purpose build Hindu temple on Leeds Road. This was a very significant moment for the Hindu community but indeed for all of us in Bradford.
“It showed how much Her Majesty understood and identified with smaller faith communities. She symbolized togetherness and the importance of inclusiveness. These are precious values that we must hold on to.
“This gathering today is a commemoration of a memory which is very much set in our faith identity but most importantly that women of faith have taken this initiative, is a very powerful recognition of the role Her Majesty played as a woman of faith in a role of leadership.”
To welcome the proclamation of King Charles III, Mrs Buncy added: “We know His Majesty comes with an expansive portfolio of advancing issues very close to our hearts such as climate change, youth leadership, charitable endeavors such as the Princes Trust but also HRH has been a Patron for charities.
“We also know HRH is a person of faith and has a deep and keen interest in faith and faith communities.
“We are hopeful and encouraged the King will strengthen the legacy of Her Majesty but also will embrace the challenges of modern society. God save the King.”
Have you got a story for us? Email newsdesk@telegraphandargus.co.uk or contact us here or WhatsApp us on 07720403052.
Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to keep up with all the latest news.
Sign up to our newsletter to get updates sent straight to your inbox.
You can also call us on 01274 705292.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here