HINDUS IN SCOTLAND : THE JOURNEY
The Connection between Hindus and Scotland is older than is often appreciated. Two of the earliest records of Scots in India belong to Colonel John Baillie and Dr.Neil Edmonstone.
Colonel John Baillie, a British soldier, was stationed in India during the same period. He had a keen interest in Indian history, culture, and religion. Baillie’s interactions with Hindus and his travels throughout The Indian subcontinent sparked a fascination with Hinduism. Neil Benjamin Edmonstone, a Scottish surgeon, ventured to India in the early 19th century. He served in the Bengal Medical Service and worked extensively in Bengal and Assam.
The Battle of Assaye (1803) saw Scottish regiments, like the 78th Highlanders and 74th Highlanders, clash with the Marathas in India.
Led by Major-General Arthur Wellesley (later Duke of Wellington), the Marathas displayed remarkable bravery and resilience, however the Scots won the day to achieve a close victory.
The victory is marked by Memorial to the men of the 74th Highlanders in St Giles Cathedral, Edinburgh, erected 1886.
Through the Decades
THE PLANTING OF SEEDS:
The period between the 1920’s and 1990’s witnessed
a significant development in the presence of Hindus in
Scotland. The immigration of Indians, particularly from
Punjab and Gujarat, brought a diverse range of Hindu
communities to the country. Initially, these immigrants faced
challenges in maintaining their religious practices and
integrating into Scottish society. However, determined to
preserve their traditions, they established community
organizations and places of worship.
By the 1950’s, Hindu community associations began to emerge, providing a sense of belonging and support. The 1960’s and 1970’s saw a rise in professionals and students migrating to Scotland, further expanding the Hindu community. Temples and cultural associations were established, serving as hubs for religious activities, social gatherings, and language classes.
In the 1980’s, the Hindu community began actively
participating in interfaith dialogues and engaging in social
initiatives, fostering stronger connections with the wider
Scottish society. Hindu festivals like Diwali and Navaratri
became widely celebrated, gaining recognition and
appreciation throughout Scotland.
By the 1990’s, Hindus had established a vibrant presence in
Scotland, contributing to various fields such as business
academia, and the arts. The Hindu community’s growth and
integration during this period laid a solid foundation for the
diverse and thriving Hindu diaspora that exists in Scotland
Today.
GLASGOW
A small Community has grown, developed and integrated itself into the fabric of Glasgow. Starting worship and weekly meet ups in people home a journey which culinated in the establishment of a Hindu Mandir at LaBelle Place.
LESMAHAGOW
ISKCON Scotland is the Scottish Branch ISCKON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness) also Known as the Hare Krishna Movement. ISKCON has established in the west in 1966. It has its roots in India from a very respected ancient spiritual Vaishnava Tradition also known as Bhakti Yoga.
THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT.
From the 1990s to the present day, the Hindu community in Scotland has seen notable developments, including the establishment of Hindu temples and organizations in cities like Dundee, Aberdeen, and Edinburgh These temples, such as the Dundee Hindu Mandir, Aberdeen Hindu Temple Trust, and Edinburgh Hindu Mandir and Cultural Centre, have played crucial roles in providing spaces for
worship, cultural activities, and community engagement.
The presence of Hindu temples in these cities has not only catered to the needs of the Indian Hindu community but has also attracted members from Sri Lankan and Nepalese communities. The Sri Lankan Tamil diaspora, particularly in cities like Glasgow has actively participated in temple activities, preserving their cultural and
religious practices. Similarly, the Nepalese community, including Gurkha soldiers stationed in Scotland, has found solace and camaraderie in Hindu temples, contributing to the diverse fabric of the Scottish Hindu community.
THE BLOSSOMING
These temples and organizations have facilitated various cultural and educational initiatives, including language classes, yoga workshops, and cultural festivals. They have become vital hubs for fostering community cohesion, interfaith dialogue, and promoting cross-cultural understanding in Scottish society.
Additionally, these Hindu temples have collaborated with local authorities and organizations to support charitable causes, disaster relief efforts, and community outreach programs. Their active engagement in social initiatives has garnered appreciation and recognition, strengthening the bonds between the Hindu
community and the wider Scottish society
OUR PRESENCE
Overall, the presence of Hindu temples and organizations in Dundee Hindu Cultural Community Centre, Aberdeen Hindu Temple Trust, and Edinburgh Hindu Mandir and Cultural Center, as well as the active participation of Sri Lankan and Nepalese communities, has contributed significantly to the vibrant and diverse landscape of
Hinduism in Scotland from the 1990s to the present day.