Ottawa (Rajeev Sharma): Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney visited the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Toronto to participate in Ram Navami celebrations, extending his greetings to the Hindu community during the auspicious occasion. Marking his first visit to the temple, Carney joined worshippers in celebrating the start of the Ram Navami festival, which signifies the culmination of the nine-day Navratri celebration and honors the birth of Lord Ram.
On Sunday, Carney wrote to X (formerly Twitter): “Joined Hindu community members at the @BAPS_Toronto Mandir yesterday for the first day of Ram Navami celebrations. Thank you for sharing your traditions and culture with me. Happy Ram Navami!”
Federal cabinet minister Anita Anand also shared photographs of the visit, noting: “So pleased to welcome @MarkJCarney on his first visit to @baps_toronto to celebrate the birth of Lord Rama. A very Happy Ram Navami!”
Concerns Over Hindu Underrepresentation
Carney’s visit comes just weeks before Canada’s upcoming federal elections scheduled for April 28. In response to his appearance at the temple, the Hindu Canadian Foundation (HCF), a non-profit organization advocating for Hindu interests in Canada, issued a statement highlighting concerns over the community’s ongoing underrepresentation and rising challenges.
In a post on X, HCF acknowledged the contributions of Canada’s over one million Hindus, describing them as law-abiding, successful, and culturally assimilated citizens. However, the organization emphasized that despite these achievements, Hindus often remain politically underrepresented, leaving the community exposed during times of increased hostility.
“The past few years have posed significant challenges for the Hindu community,” the statement read. “Despite being among the highest earners and leading successful lives, Hindus maintain a low profile and often refrain from engaging in political decisions. This sometimes leads to underrepresentation, leaving the community vulnerable.”
The Foundation also raised alarm over the growing influence of separatist groups and a rise in anti-Hindu rhetoric.
“The recent surge in anti-Hindu sentiment, fueled by rising separatist groups, has deeply affected every Hindu Canadian. Addressing these pressing issues will be a critical focus for the upcoming government,” the post added.
As Canada moves closer to election day, Hindu advocacy groups are urging leaders to recognize the challenges facing the community and work toward better representation and protection of religious minorities.
