British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on the eve of King Charles III's coronation hailed the multi-faith coronation as a 'moment of national pride'. In a message on Saturday, he highlighted the central role which will be played by all faiths in a religious ceremony that is over a thousand years old. The first-ever Hindu incumbent of 10 Downing Street will be playing an active role in the ceremony at Westminster Abbey scheduled to take place on Saturday. Sunak will read from the biblical book of Colossians while keeping with the tradition of UK Prime Ministers giving readings on State occasions, reported news agency PTI.
Along with his wife Akshata Murty, the daughter of Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy, Sunak will also be at the head of a procession of flag-bearers as the UK's flag will be carried by a high-ranking Royal Air Force cadet into the Abbey.
Sunak in a statement on the eve of the historic event said, "In the Abbey where monarchs have been crowned for almost a thousand years, representatives of every faith will play a central role for the first time."
He added, "The Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla will be a moment of extraordinary national pride. Together with friends from across the Commonwealth and beyond, we will celebrate the enduring nature of our great monarchy: its constancy, devotion to duty, and service to others. No other country could put on such a dazzling display – the processions, the pageantry, the ceremonies, and street parties."
Sunak however emphasised that the Coronation which will be the first in 70 years since Queen Elizabeth II was crowned in June 1953 won't just be a spectacle but a proud expression of history, culture, and traditions.
He said, "A vivid demonstration of the modern character of our country. And a cherished ritual through which a new era is born… And in a fitting tribute to the spirit of service that will define the Carolean Age, people across our country will help their communities with thousands of acts of kindness. So let's celebrate this weekend with pride in who we are and what we stand for. Let's look to the future with hope and optimism. And let's make new memories, so we can tell our grandchildren of the day we came together to sing: 'God Save The King'."