Gerrards Cross marked a historic moment last weekend as Mayor Cllr Prerna Bhardwaj hosted her Civic Ceremony at the Gerrards Cross Community Centre on March 1, 2025. The event, which blended Hindu and Christian traditions, was the first of its kind in the town, reflecting the Mayor’s commitment to inclusivity and interfaith harmony.
The ceremony featured readings and prayers from both faiths, led by Vaisnava Das, a Hindu priest from ISKCON Bhaktivedanta Manor, and Dr. Desmond Hall, who delivered a reading from the Bible. In her address, Mayor Bhardwaj highlighted the profound influence of Hindu teachings on her passion for service, equality, and environmental protection - values that were also echoed in the Christian hymns sung during the event.
Adding a personal touch, the Mayor’s children, Reyaan and Kiara Bhardwaj, opened the ceremony with a heartfelt prayer. Contributions also came from key members of the community, including Marcia Bell, Chair of the Gerrards Cross Community Association (GXCA), and Dhruv Chhatralia BEM, a Hindu author, leader and speaker. The Girl Guides, Gerrards Cross Mayoral Cadet FS Z Pickford 2370 RAFAC, Councillor Diane Holden representing the Gerrards Cross Conservation Volunteers, and Town Clerk Pravina Patel also took part in the proceedings.
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A standout moment was the moving rendition of “When You Believe,” performed by St Mary’s School Choir, with Jane Phillips, Head of Music, accompanying on the keyboard.
Following the ceremony, attendees contributed to a collection in support of the Mayor’s chosen charity, the Rennie Grove Peace Hospice. Guests also enjoyed refreshments courtesy of local restaurant Caraway Café.
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Among the distinguished guests were Lord Popat, Deputy Lord Lieutenant Joanna Barclay, Cllr Allan Sherwell (Mayor of Aylesbury), Cllr Susan Jordan (Mayor of Berkhamstead) and Cllr Francis Holly (Mayor of Chesham), alongside PC3248 Kaitlyn Brooks.
Mayor Bhardwaj’s Civic Ceremony not only celebrated tradition but also underscored the importance of unity, community service, and interfaith understanding - values that continue to shape Gerrards Cross.