The leading London Mayoral candidates, Conservative Zac Goldsmith and Labour’s Sadiq Khan visited Shree Swaminarayan Mandir Kingsbury in recent days to gain the blessings of the Lord as their election campaigns build to a climax. With the candidates’ manifestos strongly focussing on environmental issues, both were keen to associate themselves with the world’s first eco-temple.

Sadiq Khan enthused, “This Mandir should be a beacon to all. With ten thousand people dying each year as a result of poor air quality [in London], we all need to learn from this eco-temple.” Goldsmith praised the recently opened temple for its beautiful architecture, green credentials and community outreach work, saying it was one of the most beautiful building he had ever been in.

Khan summarised the true reason for their visits, “The reason why I came is that I need your blessings…anybody who has your blessings does well!”

Both candidates praised Acharya Swamishree Maharaj for inspiring the creation of such a magnificent Mandir, and pledged to return in the summer as Mayor to pay their respects to him in person.