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LONDON, ENGLAND, June 6, 2002: Queen Elizabeth visited a Hindu temple for the first time in Britain and did so in her stocking feet. She removed her shoes as a sign of respect as she and the Duke of Edinburgh entered the Highgatehill Murugan Temple in Archway, north London. This temple was built by Tamil Hindus from Sri Lanka who immigrated to England. The UK press was apparently amazed she would remove her shoes, and the BBC even ran a photo of her stocking feet. The Queen was in the capital on the latest leg of her Golden Jubilee tour of the UK. After being welcomed with garlands of yellow flowers, the royal couple were blessed with peace and long life by four high priests. The visit was intended to show the inclusive nature of the monarchy and the Queen’s respect for all religions in Britain, not just the Church of England, of which she is head. She has previously visited Hindu temples in India but it is the first time she has been to one in this country. Temple leader Suganya Naveenan said: “It’s made people feel valued and we are honored she chose to come here.” The Queen and Duke were entertained with a traditional dance by three barefooted girls. One child in the crowd, five-year-old Abeyan Ahilan, tugged the Queen’s coat and she asked him: “Did you like the dancing?” Worshipper Perin Nathan said: “It’s a recognition not only of the Hindu faith, but of the Tamil community, so we are very proud.”

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