Bhanu Attri from Himachal Pradesh becomes UK Royal Navy’s first Hindu chaplain.

Himachal’s Bhanu Attri Makes History as First Hindu Chaplain in British Royal Navy.

Upendra Bharti | HENB | New Delhi | Aug 19, 2025:: In a groundbreaking achievement, Bhanu Attri, a 39-year-old resident of Gadhkhal village near Kasauli in Himachal Pradesh, has been appointed as the first Hindu chaplain of the British Royal Navy. This historic appointment marks a significant milestone for the Hindu community and reflects the Navy’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.

From Himachal to the Royal Navy

Bhanu Attri’s journey to this prestigious position began with his primary education at Saraswati Niketan Senior Secondary School, Nalwa, followed by studying Shastri from Sanskrit College Solan and becoming Jyotishacharya from Delhi. In 2009, he moved to London and started working as a priest. His dedication and hard work have now led him to become the first non-Christian priest in the Royal Navy.

Specialized Training and Appointment

Attri underwent a specialized training program, including six weeks of officer instruction, four weeks at sea aboard the warship HMS Iron Duke, and three weeks focused on the role of a military chaplain. He was among 148 new officers, including 17 men and women selected from the ranks and 13 warrant officers promoted as lieutenants, who completed their “Initial Officer Training”.

A Proud Moment for Family and Community

Bhanu Attri’s family, including his parents, Ram Gopal Attri, a retired Shastri teacher, and Leena Attri, a housewife, are overjoyed at his achievement. His father expressed pride, saying, “This is a big achievement for us as well as the country and the state.” The appointment has also brought happiness to the entire Kasauli area, with many congratulating Attri on his remarkable feat.

The Hindu Council UK’s Role

The Hindu Council UK (HCUK) played a significant role in Attri’s appointment, proposing him as a suitable candidate for the role. According to Anil Bhanot, Hindu Advisor to the UK’s Ministry of Defence (MoD), Attri met the criteria for the role, including personal fitness, principled faith and philosophy, professional eligibility, and good English communicative skills. Bhanot said, “The training can be arduous, which requires medical fitness standards, ready for duty 24/7 at short notice”.

Promoting Hindu Representation in the MoD

Bhanot emphasized the importance of raising awareness about career opportunities in the MoD among Hindu youth. “MoD careers are sometimes neglected by our Hindu youth, and we will try to do more community meetings at temples to raise awareness. British Hindus have settled here from all corners of the world, and although our spiritual bhoomi (land) is India, our karmabhoomi is the United Kingdom, and MoD represents our protective arm,” he said.

Breaking Barriers and Setting Examples

Bhanu Attri’s appointment is not just a personal achievement but also a milestone for the Hindu community. It showcases the Navy’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, providing a role model for young Hindus around the world. Attri’s uncle, a religious guru in the British Armed Forces, was honored with the Member of the British Empire (MBE) award, adding to the family’s legacy of service.

A New Chapter for the Royal Navy

As the first Hindu chaplain, Bhanu Attri will provide spiritual support to fellow naval officers based on Hinduism’s tenets. His appointment is a significant step towards promoting interfaith understanding and diversity within the Navy. Captain Andy Bray, Captain Britannia Royal Naval College, congratulated the new officers, saying, “Commissioning into the Royal Navy is a moment none of us forget, and it has been a privilege to follow these officers through their training”.
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__Agency inputs.