The Queensbury chapter of Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (UK) recently organised a joyous celebration to mark the auspicious festival of Vijayadashmi, or Dussehra, a hugely significant festival in the Hindu calendar. The event, which saw three HSS UK’s shakhas (branches) from Queensbury, north-west London, and was attended by nearly 300 people, included community leaders, local councillors and seniors from the HSS UK.
HSS UK is a registered charity with over 100 activity centres across the UK and more than two thousand people of ages ranging from three to eighty-five years come together on the weekly basis. Organised activities focus on character building, physical fitness, Yoga, as well as training for soft skills like teamwork, leadership and confidence building, all leading to personal development, good citizenship and strong cultural values.
The event included a wonderful presentation of the physical activities performed by participants of all ages who attend the weekly sessions of the Queensbury chapter. The demonstrations included Yoga, ‘Ni-Yudhha’ – an Indian martial art – and the execution of a range of synchronised drill movements which captivated the audience and showcased the discipline and skill required to master the manoeuvres in unison.
Through the enthralling performances, HSS UK hoped to celebrate Vijayadashmi’s profound message of the eternal triumph of good over evil. The celebrations therefore also served as a reminder to uphold values such as truth, justice, and compassion which transcend cultural and religious boundaries.
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The chief guest of the event, Councillor Ameet Jogia, lauded the work carried out by HSS UK in promoting the development of Youth with good sanskaars (character), who can go on to contribute and serve local communities.
Cllr Jogia also emphasised the importance of an individual serving the community in their varying capacity and playing their part in order to make a difference and improve the overall state of the society, a message which resonates closely with HSS UK’s endeavours to engage with communities, recognise the contributions of educators and first responders and inspire its members to give back to the community.
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Other dignitaries in attendance also expressed their admiration for the work carried out by HSS UK. The evening concluded with a delicious vegetarian meal for all attendees and participants.