14th March 2010 saw a special assembly hosted at the Yorkshire Nirankari Satsang Bhawan  highlighting a vision of ‘Unity in Diversity’ within a multicultural and multi-faith society.

The assembly was comprised of very distinguished and prominent dignitaries; The Right Worshipful the Lord Mayor of Bradford, Councillor John Godward & Lady Mayoress, Jean Godward, Chief Inspector Tim Redhead representing the Police Force from Bradford South Division, Councillor Ghazanfer Khaliq, Councillor Mohammed Shafiq, together with representatives from interfaith and religious groups across the community all attended to welcome the newly elected Consul General of India (C.G.I.), His Excellency Mr. C. Gururaj Rao. All prominent dignitaries were warmly welcomed and garlanded.

Although, due to unfortunate personal circumstances His Excellency was called away in an emergency due to his mother’s ill health; the acting Consul General of India, Mr Kartar Singh Ji and all Embassy Officials were warmly received and welcomed by Local in charge Rev. Jawahar Singh Ji and branch committee members.

The congregation was presided over by Rev. Upashak ji and the stage was conducted by Dr. Bobby Sura Ji, who introduced the mission’s philosophy and ideals to the invited guests and VIPs. The local speakers highlighted HH Baba Ji’s message of love and peaceful coexistence amongst all communities through poetry, melodious songs and inspirational speeches.

The Lord Mayor reflected the Nirankari Mission’s philosophy of Universal Brotherhood, to promote the ideals of love and understanding amongst ALL communities, irrespective of caste, colour or creed. He further added that by applying these qualities, the Nirankari Mission is reaching out to build broken bridges and show unity in this world; paving the way forward for stronger bonds and better community cohesion. These sentiments were also echoed by the acting Consul General of India, Chief Inspector Tim Redhead and the local councillors.

The Lord Mayor was awarded a ‘shield of excellence’ in recognition of his services to the Bradford community.

To mark Mother’s day, the Lady Mayoress graciously accepted a bouquet of flowers, presented by children, on behalf of all mothers.

Rev H.S. Upashak presiding over the congregation said that, irrespective of religion, the primary purpose of man is to realize his true purpose and potential in life and that is to be human and show humanity towards all; and if we all uphold these principles then quality of life would be enhanced and improved for all.

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