New Delhi: India sent an official delegation, including Hindu and Sikh religious leaders, to the funeral of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran, reflecting its diplomatic approach of presenting the country as a plural society while maintaining long-standing ties with Iran.
The delegation included Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita, Pandit Vijay Kumar Sharma and Swami Sarang Mohiley.
According to international affairs expert Shreesh Kumar Pathak, the participation of leaders from different faiths highlighted India’s plural identity, reduced the possibility of communal interpretations and underlined that relations with Iran rest on diplomacy and civilisational links rather than religion.
During the ceremony, Pandit Vijay Kumar Sharma spoke about peace, justice and standing with oppressed people. Referring to India’s spiritual traditions, he said true humanity means supporting those facing injustice. His remarks attracted wide attention on social media.
Before leaving for Tehran, Swami Sarang Mohiley described the visit as recognition of India’s Sanatan tradition and linked it with the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, which views the world as one family.
The report stated that both religious leaders have maintained long-standing cultural and interfaith connections with Iran, although neither India nor Iran has officially explained why they were selected for the delegation.
Pathak said India adopted a diverse delegation to avoid turning a foreign policy decision into a domestic political issue. The approach also helped India maintain diplomatic balance in its relations with Iran, Israel, the United States and Gulf countries.
The United States has not issued any official criticism over India’s participation. Israel has also remained silent on the visit.
The report said Iran continues to hold strategic importance for India through Chabahar Port, regional connectivity, trade and energy cooperation. Following the funeral, the Iranian Embassy in New Delhi thanked the Indian government and people for their participation.
