From Pashupatinath Temple: Australian Assistant FM Reveals Hinduism’s Soaring Popularity in Australia

Australia’s Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs, Tim Watts, made a significant statement today during his visit to Nepal. Standing in front of the iconic Lord Pashupati temple, Watts declared that Hinduism is the fastest growing religion in Australia.

With a smile on his lips and adorned with a garland of Rudraksha beads and a Hindu scarf around his neck, the Australian minister highlighted the deepening connection between the diverse communities in modern Australia and South Asia.

Hinduism is Australia’s fastest growing religion.

The diversity of modern Australia connects us to every part of the world, including South Asia. pic.twitter.com/9znc7qXmMt

— Tim Watts MP (@TimWattsMP) May 17, 2023

Watts expressed his appreciation for the cultural and religious diversity present in Australia, stating, “The diversity of modern Australia has connected us to every part of the world, including South Asia. As Foreign Minister Senator Penny Wong has said, when Australians look out to the world, we see ourselves reflected in it – just as the world can see itself reflected in us.”

As Foreign Minister @SenatorWong has said, when Australians look out to the world, we see ourselves reflected in it – just as the world can see itself reflected in us. pic.twitter.com/FBSX8lVJql

— Tim Watts MP (@TimWattsMP) May 17, 2023

During his visit to Nepal, which commenced on Tuesday, Assistant Foreign Minister Tim Watts has been prioritizing social and cultural engagements rather than engaging in political discussions. On Wednesday morning, he paid a visit to the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, a renowned pilgrimage site for Hindus and individuals from across South Asia and beyond. Watts expressed his deep sense of fulfillment in experiencing the temple’s significance firsthand, emphasizing the connection between Australia and the region.

He wrote on social networking site Twitter, “Visiting the Pashupatinath Temple in Nepal, and experiencing its significance as a pilgrimage site for Hindus and others from across South Asia and beyond, highlighted this connection and was incredibly rewarding.”

In addition to his temple visit, Watts engaged in various meetings with prominent figures. He had a productive discussion with Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda,’ during which the Prime Minister Prachanda extended an invitation for Watts’ Australian counterpart to visit Nepal. The Australian minister also held a meeting with Foreign Minister NP Saud on Tuesday, further strengthening the bilateral ties between the two nations.

As Australia’s 63-year friendship with Nepal deepens, I was honoured to meet with the Rt Hon Prime Minister Dahal to discuss Australia’s commitment to support human resource development & capacity building in Nepal’s education sector.@dfat @cmprachanda @AusAmbNP pic.twitter.com/XESulsQnEh

— Tim Watts MP (@TimWattsMP) May 17, 2023

Watts displayed his commitment to supporting Nepal’s development by visiting the Tilganga Eye Hospital, where he met with renowned eye surgeon Dr. Sanduk Ruit. The assistant minister also engaged in meaningful discussions with several women leaders, highlighting the importance of gender equality and inclusivity in both Australia and Nepal.

When they first started, only 10% of people in Nepal could receive quality eye surgery.
Now, 99% have access. pic.twitter.com/5TuckytvMi

— Tim Watts MP (@TimWattsMP) May 17, 2023

During the auspicious visit of Assistant Foreign Minister Watts, Australia demonstrated its commitment to cultural preservation by returning the 13th-century Ratneshwar Temple tunala to Nepal. The Director of the Art Gallery of New South Wales, Michael Brand, officially handed over the tunala to Herambaraj Rajopadhyay, the chief priest of the temple, on Tuesday. This act not only symbolizes the strong cultural ties between the two countries but also represents Australia’s respect for Nepal’s rich heritage.

In 1975, thieves took a wooden sculpture – called a tunala – from a 13th century temple in Nepal.

A collector acquired it, and upon his death it was donated to the @ArtGalleryofNSW.

But it didn’t belong there – that wasn’t its home. pic.twitter.com/W9Fo2CZCBP

— Tim Watts MP (@TimWattsMP) May 17, 2023

Assistant Minister Tim Watts’ visit to Nepal has not only fostered stronger diplomatic relations but has also showcased Australia’s recognition and appreciation of diverse cultures and religions. The growing presence of Hinduism in Australia reflects the ever-evolving social fabric of the nation and emphasizes the importance of multiculturalism in promoting understanding and harmony.

As Assistant Foreign Minister Tim Watts continues his engagements in Nepal, it is anticipated that his visit will contribute to further enhancing bilateral cooperation and cultural exchange between Australia and Nepal.