Bhagwan Rama: Embodiment of Dharma and the Triumph of Good Over Evil

The birthday of Bhagwan Rama, known as Rama Navami, is very important for Hindus all around the world. Bhagwan Rama is regarded the seventh incarnation of Vishnu, one of Hinduism's most important deities, and he is adored as the personification of justice, virtue, and an ideal ruler.

eMigrate: Equipping India's overseas migrants with technology

Designed by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India, eMigrate is an online portal. Particularly in nations requiring an Emigration Check Required (ECR) status, it serves as a single-window solution to control the migration flow of Indian employees heading overseas. For Indian individuals looking overseas for work as well as for recruiting agents and international companies, the platform streamlines the application, validation, and approval procedures. This project guarantees that every stage of the migration process is open, safe, and legal according to Indian law.

Navigating Religious Tensions: Sadhguru's Call for Peace, Unity, and Spiritual Understanding During Durga Puja Attacks in Bangladesh

Sadhguru's reaction to the violence offers much-needed perspective in a world where religious and cultural differences continue to separate civilisations. His message extends beyond the immediate context of the attacks on Durga Puja celebrations, expressing a worldwide need for harmony among all communities. Sadhguru provides a thorough grasp of a difficult problem by delving into the cultural background of Durga Puja, its spiritual value, and the importance of respecting various faiths.

Accelerating Funeral Arrangements: Key Factors Across UK Religious Communities and Strategic Action Plan for Enhancing Hindu Funeral Services

Here is a suggested Action Plan for Hindu Organizations in the UK to Create Effective Community Organizations for improving Hindu funeral services and ensuring that the needs of all Hindus are met promptly and respectfully

"Deciphering the Distinctions: 'Hakenkreuz' vs. 'Swastika'"

Find out why the Lawmakers, Human Rights orgs, USCRIF,  Academia, including Harvard Business School's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiative, must take the initiative to lead in ending the miss-association of sacred Hindu symbols.

Hindus:- The Everlasting Impact of Hindus and Hinduism on World Civilisation

Throughout history, Hinduism has been more than just a religion; it has been a way of life, a philosophy, and a cultural beacon that has illuminated the world with its profound wisdom and timeless teachings. From ancient scriptures to modern innovations, Hindus and Hinduism have made significant positive contributions to the world, shaping both the spiritual and material realms. Let us explore some of these enduring contributions that continue to enrich humanity.

Celebrating Holi: Embracing Diversity and Unity in Today’s World

In a world marked by diversity, where cultures and traditions intertwine, the Hindu festival of Holi stands as a beacon of joy, color, and unity. Originating in the Indian subcontinent, Holi transcends geographical boundaries to become a global celebration of harmony and togetherness. As we delve into the significance of Holi in contemporary times, we uncover its timeless relevance and the profound message it carries for humanity.

The Relevance of Raksha Bandhan in Today's World

One of the foremost aspects that render Raksha Bandhan relevant today is its emphasis on family bonds and the importance of nurturing relationships. In an era marked by technological advancements and social media, where virtual connections often overshadow real-life interactions, festivals like Raksha Bandhan serve as reminders to cherish and strengthen familial ties. It provides an opportunity for siblings to come together, reminisce about shared memories, and reaffirm their love and support for each other, fostering a sense of belonging and unity within the family unit.

Diwali 2023 celebrated at the EP with MEPs Morten Løkkegaard and Maxette Pirbakas

On Wednesday 25 October, the Diwali festival was celebrated at the European Union Parliament in Brussels (Belgium). The festival will take place this year on 12 November, but due to Parliament’s own agenda and to allow the largest number of representatives of Hinduism in Europe to attend, it was held two weeks in advance, as reported by La Verdad de Ceuta.

The event was organised by the Hindu Forum of Europe (HFE) in collaboration with the Palan Foundation and the Phi Foundation. Diwali, also known as the festival of lights, has been celebrated in the European Parliament since 2015.

HIndu Forum of Europe Celebrates Diwali 2023 at the European Parliament

We are excited to share with you a glimpse of our Diwali 2023 celebration at the European Parliament. Click the link below to view images capturing the vibrant festivities and the joyous moments shared during this special occasion. Join us in reliving the spirit of this Hindu Forum of Europe Diwali celebration

Raksha Bandhan: An Overview

Raksha Bandhan is derived from two words: "Raksha" meaning protection and "Bandhan" denoting a bond. In Sanskrit, this translates to "a bond of protection."

PM Modi in France - Indian Army Marches On Champs Elysees During Bastille Day Parade

French Embassy in India twitted 

A warm welcome to France for the tri-force contingent that will march in the #BastilleDay parade on July 14! We feel especially honored to welcome soldiers from the Punjab Regiment, whose valorous history includes fighting alongside troops in WWI.

Now it seems that British Hindus don’t count

Last summer, more than 600 people took to the streets of Leicester in violent protest against alleged “Hindutva”, a term unfamiliar to many. To some it means Hindu nationalism, to others simply outward expression of “Hinduness”. While Muslim and Hindu youths had fought in what looked like gang-style territorial violence, there was little evidence of any political nationalist allegiances with India.

Instead, concern over Hindu extremism lead to threats to find Hindus and “chop them up”, to “chase Hindus out of Leicester like they were chased out of Kashmir”, vandalism of vehicles and homes that displayed Hindu symbols and attacks on Hindu temples — all while the majority of mainstream media seemed to comment on any aspect other than Hindu-hate.

In The Joy of Others Lies Our Own HH Pramukh Swami Maharaj

In the Joy of others lies our own

A short glimpse of the life and achievements of HH Pramukh Swami Maharaj

There are hundreds of coaching books that teach you various ways of dealing with life situations. Never ever has there been a book written about the life of a Hindu Sadhu containing lessons from his life.

This is a unique educational tool as the readers gets a glimpse of the life of a Sadhu and even more unique is that we will share some incredible basic life lessons from someone that actually practises them.

To start off, how many teachers do you know that work for nothing other than to help humanity, have only one purpose in life which is to introduce all individuals from all walks of life to the God within him.

This book is all about humility, purpose of life, love and respect, patience and working to benefit everyone - all unheard of life lessons. You will not learn to make more money, or how to have more of everything, you will simply learn about how to become happy by actually not wanting anything!

HH was born in an average family home in a village in India (photo) and when he died at the age of 96 he had established temples, schools and hospitals  in almost all the continents of the world. The Sanstha(2) has a following of over 10 million devotees worldwide, each one an ambassador of his virtues. He has received accolades from various Parliaments etc. and, most importantly, built a workforce of over 100,000 volunteers who had been inspired to give time (seva) as part of life. 

Yet he personally had two pairs of Dhotis, no bank account, and practised 5 vows of detachment - his attachment was only to God and his  purpose was to introduce everyone to God, help all to live a life free of addiction, commit to spreading harmony and truly understand that the purpose of life is to be responsible for all that is around us and be a good sevak(3), never expect to receive credit and only to participate in making the world a happier place without waiting for the result. One piece of advice he gave was not to engage in breaking someone else's stick or trying to make your stick bigger, not to bully nor to bring someone else down, only to show that you have a higher purpose of reconciliation, forgiveness, harmony and love.

 The life lessons we will explore are from his childhood right up to his death.

I hope you will enjoy reading about this wonderful soul who I was privileged enough to know and serve. Many individuals from all walks of life, even those who met him for as little as 5 minutes, have commented "if God was to exist on earth, it would be in him because he and his action can only be described as divine".

It would be appropriate to end this short introduction by summarising his life’s message:

In the joy of others, lies our own

In the happiness of others rests our own,

In the progress of others rests our own.

A Tribute to Pramukh Swami Maharaj

His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj (1921-2016) was the fifth spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan and the inspirer of millions. He dedicated his life to selflessly serving others for the greater good of humanity, travelling across the world as an ambassador of love, peace, harmony, righteousness and faith. Pramukh Swami Maharaj was loved and respected as one of the great spiritual leaders of our time, who taught and embodied the timeless, universal wisdom: “In the joy of others lies our own.

Pramukh Swami Maharaj Centenary Festival NAGAR INTRODUCTION

Tribute to Jay Lakhani: British Hindus reflect on his enduring legacy that will live on for generations

heoretical physicist and global speaker Shri (Dilip) Jay Lakhani passed away peacefully at home on December 4, aged 72. It was a sad day for the British Hindu community as they bade farewell to the adored and well-respected scholar and pioneer of Hindu studies in the UK.

Author of 'Hinduism for Schools' (2005), 'Primary Hinduism' (2006), 'Special Times: Hinduism' (2009) and 'A Journey Through Life in Hinduism' (2010), Lakhani was the first Hindu tutor at Eton College and was known for his popular GCSE and A-Level Hinduism classes, which he ran up and down the country.

The Growth of BAPS in the Islamic World – A Case Study of Religious Harmony

Among many examples of positive progress towards religious harmony and mutual respect is BAPS – a socio-spiritual organisation which has led the effort to bring about dialogue between different faiths and promote the values of unity in diversity.

Tolerance over Interference

The farmers protest has taken a violent turn last week when thousands broke through the main protest and invaded one of India’s iconic sites – The Red Fort. And if that was not bad enough, they did it on India’s Republic Day celebrations.

Faith and the Enviironment

Faith groups have the capacity to do much more when it comes to nature and climate change.

Hinduism itself has much to offer and in practice, there are some amazing projects around the world where green values are in the forefront. But how much of this is accessible in the public domain and how are faith groups pushing the importance of the environment?

Diwali like no other

The pandemic has changed the boundaries of what we can do, and what we cannot. Diwali no longer means that thousands of people out on the streets of Leicester or on Trafalgar Square.

Faith Leaders write to PM over lockdown

The Coronavirus is taken its toll and as the second lockdown takes effect, there are lots of questions as to on what basis decisions are taken. The faith communities are particularly upset. A group of faith leaders have jointly written to the Prime Minister saying: “We strongly disagree with the decision to suspend public worship during this time.”

Living in the midst of COVID-19

As the world continues to combat the evil of COVID-19, there are some now who conclude that we as humanity will have to live with COVID the way we have been living with cancer.

Never to be Forgotten - or are they?

It was in amazement to hear that Google Doodle celebrated the 80th birthday of an Indian swimmer. It is a story that most people would not have heard about and certainly most Indians would be very proud of – if they knew! So, thank you Google.  

Vegetarian & Vegan Kitchen - Healing Our Earth

It is another must-watch. Healing Our Earth group of volunteers are bringing another seven hours of in-depth insight into vegetarian and vegan cuisine. You can watch it at

https://m.facebook.com/healingourearth

and

www.healingourearth.com

Celebrating the Silver Jubilee of Neasden Temple

People say that Hinduism is more than a religion, it is a way of life. This certainly is true of one of its greatest symbols in the UK. That is the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in the London borough of Brent which has been the centre of faith, seva, education, culture and community harmony for a generation.

Tribute to Eternal Divinity Pramukh Swami Maharaj_on the 4th Anniversary of His Return to Akshardham

INVITATION: London Mandir 25th Anniversary Celebrations, UK & Europe

In August 1995, His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj inaugurated BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London, creating history – it was the first traditional Hindu mandir of its kind in the western hemisphere – and crafting the future for thousands of worshippers and well-wishers.

Affectionately known as ‘London Mandir’ and ‘Neasden Temple’, this mandir continues to serve today as a place of devotion and learning, an internationally acclaimed architectural marvel, and a sanctuary of peace, harmony and community service.

To celebrate the 25th anniversary of this inspiring creation, a series of enlightening programmes has been planned for everyone to enjoy and share.

OneJAIN Paryushan Das Lakshan 2020 Global Launch 15th August

The 32 UK Jain Organisations, who are united under the ‘OneJAIN’ banner, are to launch this year’s Paryushan and Das Lakshan programme with an online event featuring major political leaders, prominent Jain spiritual leaders, and other faith leaders. from the Vatican and India.

KRISHNA JANMASHTMI

Join us to celebrate the Birthday of the Bhagwan Krishna .

Coronavirus Latest

The amount of information available on coronavirus is astonishing, but with it comes confusion, mixed messages and a whole lot of fake or inaccurate news. So here we are here again hoping to simplify the key information impacting the ethnic communities currently on the news agenda.

Pramukh Swami Maharaj Photo Story 41: Shri Ramshila Pujan

The last of the Hindus and Sikhs of Afghanistan

The last numbers of Hindus and Sikhs are to leave Afghanistan as soon as the Indian Government makes the necessary arrangements. This action comes amidst the continuous spate of attacks on religious minorities by Islamist fundamentalists.

Shravan Month 2020 Date:

Here's all you need to know about the date, time, shubh muhurat of Sawan 2020

Image > Hindi Jagran

Why & How Indian Temples Were Created

Sadhguru explains how a temple is a tool to make the divine more manifestly experience-able. He looks at how one can use this tool appropriately and talks of some of the phenomenal temples that have been built in the Indian subcontinent.

Glory of Guru Purnima

A very informative session on the importance and celebration of Guru Purnima by Param Pujya Bramvihari Swami from Dubai, UAE.

The global online summit to combat COVID-19

Life in the era of the COVID-19 pandemic is severe, stressful and in many cases fatal with the UK death rate rising above forty-four thousand. It is during this time; you see and hear about the brave and enduring individuals who find ways to beat the odds against the virus.

Glory of Guru Purnima

A very informative session on the importance of Guru Purnima by renowned scholar Bramhvihari Swami in Dubai UAE.

Is China the new colonialist?

The world politely calls China a World Superpower. Critics would argue that its quest for world dominance has put the country on the path of the new colonialist. Its whirlwind of treacherous acts is a cause of much pain to global stability and the threat of earning a title befitting an international pariah if it weren't for its size and wealth.

Alpesh Chauhan appointed Music Director of Birmingham Opera Company

It is breath-taking to see a young role model making his mark into the mainstream of British arts and culture. The Birmingham Opera Company has appointed locally born Alpesh Chauhan as their new Music Director.

Will Britain learn?

It has taken yet another negative event in society for the masses to take heed and protest against the wrongs of the past to correct the present. The death of George Floyd has sparked fury internationally, but will it really help to offer any significant change? And is it primarily a Black Lives Matter scenario or do All Lives Matter?

Death and Afterlife, a Hindu Perspective

Beliefs and concepts about death and life by Dr Ramesh Pattni DPhil (Oxford) OBE.

Let's Tun Covid19 into KIND20

Yoga has arrived - It's official

The United Nations General Assembly declared ’21 June’ as the International Day of Yoga. Yoga, a 6,000+-year-old physical, mental and spiritual practice having

Commonwealth Games

So, after India threatens to boycott the Commonwealth Games, the officials negotiate and buckle down to a deal where India will host the archery and shooting events and pay the bills.

3 Indian origin MPs get top jobs in Government

It was not long ago when we were complaining about the lack of Indian origin in the political arena. The success in business, medicine and engineering were the stereotypical paths to success. Yet the latest Cabinet reshuffle in Boris Johnson’s Government has added a twist to the stereotype.

Hindu Muslim Come Dine Together

The City of Leicester always tries hard to bring about the community spirit. More public institutions should come and see some of the ideas in action. The latest one from the St Philips Centre is to bring about stronger bonds between Hindus and Muslims by introducing a Channel 4 type Come Dine with Me dinner date.

The legacy of Ram Dass

For many British Hindus, they would have no recollection of Ram Dass – a white man with a very traditional Indian name. Only those who are curious and learn about this amazing individual's life will realise how much he has helped progress the Hindu cause in the west, and especially the USA.

British Museum snaps up Indian masterpiece

The British Museum has managed to raise around £440,000 to buy a painting by one of India’s greatest painters which was earmarked to be exported abroad. It has been bought with support from the Art Fund, National Heritage Memorial Fund and the Brooke Sewell Permanent Fund.

Most Diverse UK Parliament - Or is it?

It was one of the bruising general elections and that with the Brexit mixture made it a toxic concoction. The Labour Party in particular, antagonised the British Indian community with its stand on Kashmir.

Benefits of knowing your Mother Tongue

A common belief is that we move towards a society where the medium of teaching is English we move tend to move away from our mother tongue. The first language a baby learns right from his or her birth plays a crucial role for wide reasons. February 21 is celebrated as an international mother language day.

Is Corbyn playing 'divisive politics' with British Indians?

Jeremy Corbyn has always courted controversy. He's cloaked himself under the veil of justice, human rights and fighting for the underdog. But has he pushed a step too far with the British Indian community, who this year feel betrayed by a political party which like most immigrant communities, saw themselves as naturally aligned to the Labour Party?

Diwali - a new dawn

It’s a sight of a new dawn. Indian culture is extending across the globe. Where Indian culture has been tolerated for the sake of diversity and community relations is now embraced by the mainstream. 

Diwali-The Festivals of Lights

In Hinduism, light is significant as it reflects purity, goodness, good luck and power. A light of knowledge over ignorance, a victory of good over evil, illuminating light in our homes brings positivity and peace and expels malicious powers. Clay lamps with one cotton wick lightens the other lamps spreads the message one light is capable to illuminate other and devour darkness.

Dusshera’-A conquest of good over evil

Dusshera, a festival we celebrate to commemorate the biggest example of victory of good over evil. A word Dusshera is derived from Sanskrit word Dashahara – which means Dasha –ten and hara- annihilation or killing of ten heads. Dusshera is widely celebrated all over India with a great enthusiasm and zest. However, the customs and rituals are unique in different regions of the country

Temples under attack

With the Navaratri festival well on the way, Hindu communities are further preparing for the Diwali celebrations. Light over darkness as the saying goes.

Kashmir and its impact on the UK

The Kashmir plight continues to hit the headlines. It is a story since the independence of India and Pakistan, which will not go away. Both nations have entrenched their positions. It should be a conflict that India wants to resolve as an internal matter, but Pakistan is aggressively pushing for international support with little avail.

A Parliamentary First

Britain ethnic minority population is nearing 14%. There has been a steady rise in how ethnic minorities are represented in public life at around 8% in parliament.

How a Temple's facade tells the story of Hindus

Ranging from adapted historic buildings to ornate cultural centres, London’s Hindu temples tell of waves of immigration to Britain and increasing visibility, writes Erica X Eisen. 

Guiding Hands of Navaratri

Indian Festivals are becoming recognised across the world as part of the Hindu identity, embedding into the psyche of other cultures in host countries where the Indian diaspora exists. With communities making preparations for the next mega-festival – Navaratri, organisers are now working hard to accommodate the elderly and the disabled.

One Voice Celebration Concert

Around 2000 children gathered at Manchester Bridgewater Hall to celebrate peace and send out the message of love and hope.

Jammu and Kashmir Festival

The first ever Jammu Kashmir Festival will be celebrated in the UK from Friday, 21st October to 26th October 2016.

Modi's Diwali present

The Festival of Diwali is well on its way. In the UK it is becoming remarkably popular as the broader media outlets cover the event. This year there is added coverage as the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi lands on British soil

Prince Charles visit to Rome

Clarence House has announced that the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall will be visiting Rome to meet Pope Francis at the end of March 2017.

Republic Day 2017

India celebrated its 68th Republic Day on 26th January 2017 with Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosting Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi

Tribute to Pramukh Swami Maharaj

People from all across the world are paying the respects to Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the spiritual leader of Boachasanvasi Akshar Purushottam Sanstha (BAPS) who passed away at the age of 95.

UK Hindus are the happiest

Fascinating figures have immerged in the latest round of data released by Office for National Statistics (ONS). The key finding has been that religious people are happier than people with no religion.

Yoga has arrived - It's official

The United Nations General Assembly declared ’21 June’ as the International Day of Yoga. Yoga, a 6,000+-year-old physical, mental and spiritual practice having

Caste Campaign (1)

According to many faith based organisations, the threat of introducing caste legislation has become one of the most divisive issue within ethnic communities in Britain.

New Government measures to update crematoria facilities

The Hindu community has welcomed the Government’s decision to help update crematoria facilities so that the needs of different faiths can be accommodated.

Caste controversy

The issues around ‘caste’ have become controversial and complex. There is lack of clarity and understanding from people who do not understand the background. 

Caste debate continues

The government continues to consult and people are awaiting its plans about the incorporating caste legislation into UK law.

Caste Campaign

The caste legislation controversy has become one of the most divisive issue within ethnic communities in Britain.

First Hindu Shrine in a British Crematorium

Life is tough, but it is no different in death as faith and reality are at a constant edge. Cremation on open pyres or performing religious rituals and praying to deities for our loved ones may be the norm in India, but it sure is from a far cry in Britain where religious practices of one faith do not necessarily fit with the established system.

Kumbh Mela 2019

It is the largest gathering of humanity with a cast of 120 million people. The Kumbh Mela is an awesome sight for the spiritual enthusiasts where between 15th January to 4th March 2019, people will come to the northern Indian city of Allahabad, which is has been renamed Prayagraj.

Britain losing the Indian student market

The number of Indian students coming to study in Britain has declined by 50% since 2010.

Living a legacy of positive community relations

The great Indian poet and philosopher Rabindranath Tagore said that  “When you were born, you cried and the world rejoiced. Live your life in such a way that when you die the world cries and you rejoice.” Such was the life of the late Shri Natubhai. Hundreds of people from different faith communities gathered to express their solidarity to the family

Lord Popat on anti-semitism

Lord Popat made a passionate speech on anti-semitism at the House of Lords.

Zaiwalla and Zaiwalla

HMB Congratulates Saroh Zaiwalla and Zaiwalla & Co Solicitors for being one of the four nominated firms for the “Law Firm of the Year – Exceptional Achievement”

Hindus making impact

Politics (India & its impact to India profile worldwide) PM Modi has made tremendous impact internationally and recently the Indian public still

Inter Faith Week

Inter Faith Week, now in its eighth year has become a firm fixture in the national calendar and its growing significance reflects the diversity of our society and the great importance of

Francoise Gautier

Renowned French Indian scholar Francis Gautier is doing a speaking tour in the UK to raise awareness for a major Indian history museum project.

The Festival of Diwali is well on its way

The Festival of Diwali is well on its way. In the UK it is becoming remarkably popular as the broader media outlets cover the event.

Indian way forward

Our news media is full of the plight of Syrian migrants desperate to find a place to call home without bullets and bombs.

Neel Mukherjee

Highly talented British based Indian writer Neel Mukherjee has won this year’s prestigious Encore Award for his second novel ‘The Lives of Others’.

Jaanta Raj extravaganza

India is bringing a spectacular cultural extravaganza ‘Jaanta Raja’ on the London stage.

JK Arts in profile

In the heart of the City of Leicester, a venue that encapsulates the humdrum of the local community, the Belgrave Neighbourhood Centre will be putting on a concert with three local singers from three different generations.

Hindu HMB report

It would not be a surprise to anyone that there has been some form of Hindu presence in the United Kingdom since the 19th Century partly coinciding with the presence of the British in India.

British Indians on the rise

The profile of the Indian community is on an upward trend. We are hearing more and more about the astonishing economic rise of the Indian economy. Outside India we are hearing the success of Indian talent in places like the USA with President Obama picking Indian born Vivek H.

BBC Languages

After funding cuts in recent years, the BBC has recently done a U-turn in introducing new language services on its schedules.

Gujarati GCSE to be axed

There are proposals to axe qualifications for various foreign (mother tongue) languages – including Gujarati - from 2016 -17.