Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney Visits Glasgow’s Om Hindu Mandir

• John Swinney becomes the first Scottish First Minister to visit Glasgow’s Om Hindu Mandir on 12 November 2025.
• Stresses interfaith harmony, Gandhian principles, and Scotland’s commitment to inclusion.
• Meets volunteers, discusses community activities, and acknowledges the temple’s cultural role.
• Visit followed by Swinney’s appearance at SNP candidate Martyn Day’s Adoption Night on 14 November.

GG News Bureau
Glasgow, 16th Nov: Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney made a historic visit to the Om Hindu Mandir in Glasgow on 12 November 2025, becoming the first Scottish First Minister to visit the temple since its establishment. The Om Hindu Mandir is the first Hindu temple in Scotland and serves as a central place of worship and cultural engagement for the Hindu community.

During the visit, Swinney interacted with volunteers, committee members and devotees, acknowledging the Mandir’s long-standing contribution to Scotland’s multicultural fabric. The visit, described by many present as iconic and historic, marked a significant moment for the Hindu community and those who witnessed it.

Swinney, who has previously participated in the Scottish Interfaith Week Youth Conference, reiterated the importance of listening, mutual respect and dialogue. “Differences of opinion can always be handled with respect and courtesy,” he told the gathering, stressing that such values help make Scotland “stronger and happier.”

He also reflected on his past visit to India, recalling the serenity of Mahatma Gandhi’s ashram. Noting the teachings of Gandhi, he linked them to the proposed installation of Gandhi’s statue at Kelvingrove Park, an initiative highlighted by temple committee member Mridula Chakraborty.

Emphasising inclusion and diversity, the First Minister said Hindu mandirs play a vital role in building community cohesion by offering spaces where people gather, pray and celebrate together. He expressed gratitude for the warmth extended by temple committee members and volunteers, including SNP candidates Martyn Day and Zen Ghani.

Swinney was also briefed on the temple’s weekly activities—Hindu prayers, festival celebrations, language classes, and community sessions conducted by the SIMCC group. The temple provides weekly gatherings and lunches for visitors and devotees, supported by community contributions.

The Hindu community extended special appreciation to Martyn Day, SNP candidate for the 2026 Scottish Parliament Elections, and his wife Nidhin Chand, for their efforts in facilitating the First Minister’s visit. Day was also recognised for sponsoring a laptop for the Edinburgh Hindu Temple and Cultural Centre during the 2024 Ganesh Mahotsav.

Two days after the temple visit, the reporter attended Martyn Day’s Adoption Night on 14 November, which saw another appearance by the First Minister. The event included cultural performances and speeches from leaders including Swinney, Transport Minister Fiona Hyslop, former minister Stewart Stevenson, and MSP Michelle Thomson. Swinney urged SNP members, councillors and supporters to rally behind Martyn Day ahead of the 2026 Holyrood elections.

Described as charismatic, committed and a strong communicator, the First Minister engaged with attendees, reinforcing his vision for a united, inclusive and forward-looking Scotland. The evening also featured fundraising activities, with businesses and community members contributing generously.

The twin events highlighted growing engagement between the Scottish leadership and the Hindu community, strengthening cultural ties and reaffirming Scotland’s commitment to diversity and harmony.