Rishi Sunak invokes Bhagavad Gita, says Hindu dharma guides his approach as prime minister

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak who is expected to helm over the "worst-ever" performance of Conservative Party in the July elections, prayed at London's BAPS Swaminarayan Temple — popularly known as Neasden Temple — along with wife Akshata Murty. The couple, who visited the temple on Saturday (June 29) – on the last weekend of the general election campaign, was greeted with loud cheers as they performed puja guided by the priests.

“I am Hindu, and like all of you, I draw inspiration and comfort from my faith,” the British prime minister said.

"I was proud to be sworn in as a member of Parliament on the 'Bhagavad Gita'. Our faith teaches us to do our duty and not fret about the outcome as long as one does it faithfully. That is what I was brought up to believe by my wonderful and loving parents and that is how I live my life; and that is what I want to pass on to my daughters as they grow up. It is dharma which guides me in my approach to public service," he further said as quoted by Press Trust of India.

Amid consistent spotlight on wife Akshata Murty's income from her stakes in father Narayan Murthy's IT company Infosys, Sunak praised hid wife as "the greatest support that any husband could ever have" and “someone committed to a life of service” while speaking about the philanthropic work undertaken by his wife's family.

Addressing the attendees, Rishi Sunak said, "I want to start by thanking all of you for your support, your prayers, and your love. You have been with me every step of the way. On the hardest days in this job, I have felt your backing, and I know the pride that it is to have a British-Asian prime minister, and I am determined to never let you down."

The British PM argued that so many Indians are Conservatives because “our values bind us together”, citing education, hard work, and family.

Sunak also joked with gathered worshippers about cricket results after India won the T20 Cricket World Cup, defeating South Africa.

The visit came a day after Sunak said he was hurt and angry that a supporter of Nigel Farage's right-wing Reform UK party had been recorded making a racial slur about him, saying it was too important for him not to speak out.

Born in Southampton in 1980 to Hindu parents of Punjabi Indian descent, Sunak is Britain's first ethnic minority prime minister.

(With inputs from agencies)