Princess Anne went barefoot for her latest royal engagement at a Hindu temple. The Princess Royal visited the Wellingborough District Hindu Association (WDHA) on Wednesday, July 17, to present it with the King’s Award for Voluntary Service.
The award recognised the charity’s achievements and ongoing service to the community. King Charles’s sister took her shoes off for the royal engagement, as it is customary in Hindu traditions when people enter a temple or a home, as a sign of humility and respect.
Anne did wear a pair of skin-coloured tights, following in the footsteps of her mother, the late Queen Elizabeth, who, although not strictly enforced, was known to prefer that all royal ladies wear hosiery during formal engagements.
The WDHA published details of the visit this week.
Anne was welcomed by Northamptonshire’s lord-lieutenant, James Saunders Watson, before being greeted with traditional Hindu customs, including a garland ceremony.
She also met volunteers from various WDHA groups that focus on education, health and social care, community outreach programmes, cultural and religious celebrations and catering and youth engagement.
The princess then enjoyed a traditional folk-dance performance and unveiled a commemorative plaque to mark the occasion.
WDHA was started by a group of community volunteers in the early 1970s.
A spokesperson from the charity said: “Volunteers are an integral part of our success, and this award is in recognition of their valuable contribution.”