Brit Leader at Bhaktivedanta Manor

BY: STAFF CORRESPONDENT

Oct 19, WATFORD, ENGLAND (IANS) — Britain's Conservative Party leader David Cameron paid a visit to the Bhaktivedanta Manor Tuesday. Watford, northwest of London, has become an important place of pilgrimage for Indians in Britain and Europe. The temple not only attracts worshippers to the magnificent shrine of Sri Sri Radha-Gokulananda and Sri Sri Sita-Rama, but also its theological college, farm and expansive gardens.

Speaking to the predominantly Indian community the Manor, Cameron said it was time for families, communities and individuals to "step up to the plate" and take responsibility to help build Britain, a report in the Guardian said. "We need a Britain where we don't just ask what the government can do but what people can do, what society can do - a Britain that starts realising we are all in this together - it is called social responsibility," he said.

The event was organised by the Hindu Forum of Britain and forms part of a series of community outreach dinners with leaders from different political parties. "It's a great honour for the Hindu Forum of Britain to welcome Mr. Cameron to this reception," said Secretary general of the Forum, Ramesh Kallidai.

More than 250 business and community leaders were due to meet Mr Cameron to tackle a range of issues affecting Hindus, highlight their contribution in building a cohesive Britain and explore the community's role in shaping the future of the country.

Cameron was given a guided tour of the Manor. "We are delighted to welcome David Cameron to Bhaktivedanta Manor ISKCON temple," Gauri Das, the Temple President said. "He will be able to experience the rich spiritual heritage of India at this temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, which attracts the largest gathering of Hindus outside India."