Bhanu Attri has made history as the first-ever Hindu chaplain in the British Royal Navy. This groundbreaking appointment marks a significant step towards inclusivity and diversity within the naval force, entrusting a non-Christian with the official role of providing spiritual support.
Attri, 39, originally hails from Himachal Pradesh, India, and currently resides in Essex, UK. He is an experienced Hindu priest who has managed a temple in London for many years. His selection for this pioneering role reflects the Royal Navy's commitment to embracing individuals from diverse religious backgrounds.
The Hindu Council UK (HCUK) played a crucial role in Attri's appointment, recommending him for the position. The council set stringent criteria for the chaplaincy, including physical and mental fitness, a strong foundation in Hindu philosophy, leadership experience, pastoral abilities, and well-developed interfaith and cultural integration skills. Anil Bhanot, a Hindu advisor to the Ministry of Defence, emphasized that the role demands medical fitness and readiness for duty around the clock.
To prepare for his unique responsibilities, Attri underwent a rigorous training program. This included six weeks of officer instruction, encompassing survival training, and four weeks at sea aboard the warship HMS Iron Duke. He then completed three weeks of specialized chaplaincy training. Attri was among 148 new officers who completed their Initial Officer Training at Britannia Royal Naval College (BRNC) in Dartmouth. The training encompassed leadership, naval history, seafaring, survival skills, and teamwork.
Attri described his appointment as "a profound honour". "As a Hindu brought up in India, the opportunity to represent individuals from diverse religions brings meaningful representation for the Hindu community and reflects the Navy's commitment to spiritual care for all," he stated. His family also feels immense pride in his achievement, recognizing it as a culmination of generations of faith, service, and resilience.
As the first Hindu chaplain, Attri will offer spiritual support and guidance to naval officers and personnel, drawing upon the teachings and tenets of Hinduism. Chaplains provide religious, pastoral, welfare, and moral support to all members of the naval service, regardless of their faith. Attri will also conduct Hindu prayer ceremonies for Hindus. There are approximately 40 Hindu personnel serving full-time in the Royal Navy, with an additional 30 in the Maritime Reserves.
The appointment has been widely praised as a momentous occasion for the Hindu community and a testament to the Royal Navy's commitment to diversity and inclusion. Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu congratulated Attri, highlighting it as a source of pride for both the state and the country. Anil Bhanot of the HCUK expressed hope that Attri's appointment would inspire young British Hindus to consider careers in the military. He emphasized that while India is their spiritual homeland, the United Kingdom is their "karmabhoomi," or land of work.
