Fostering vision of cultural continuity, harmony for UK’s Jain community

The Oshwal Association UK is one of the largest Jain organisations in the country, representing a significant portion of the Jain community here. We have about 27,000 members, which is a substantial number considering there are approximately 60,000 Jains in the UK. Our association is deeply rooted in community values, fostering a sense of belonging and support among its members.

Many of our members originally migrated from East Africa, although the origins of our community are in Gujarat, India. Specifically, most Oshwals come from 52 villages around Jamnagar in Gujarat, and they are known as Halari Visa Oshwals.

As Honorary President, my vision for the Oshwal Association UK is to ensure the continuity of our culture, values, and religion for future generations. We have celebrated 50 years in the UK, and it is crucial that we continue to uphold our traditions and engage the younger members of our community.

We place a strong emphasis on caring for our elderly and providing them with opportunities to stay active and involved. Our largest centre is in Potters Bar, where we have 80 acres of land, a beautiful temple, and assembly halls for events and weddings. Additionally, we have centres in West London (Hounslow), Northwest London (Kingsbury), and South London (Wallington). These centres are vital for the local communities, offering various activities such as card games, table tennis, darts, and other recreational activities for different age groups.

Our youth club in north-west London, held at Harrow Leisure Centre on Fridays, is particularly noteworthy. It attracts about 160 to 170 children every week, providing them with a range of activities and fostering a sense of community from a young age. Inclusivity is also a key aspect of our vision. We have an Enabling Network that ensures members with disabilities are not left out and can participate in the community's activities, especially those organised for children.

I was born in Kenya and moved to the UK in 1971, so I have spent most of my life here. Education has always been a top priority for our community. About 90 per cent of our children go on to university, which speaks volumes about the emphasis we place on education. We have a strong presence of professionals in various fields. Initially, we had many accountants and pharmacists, and I am an accountant by profession. Over time, our community members have ventured into diverse fields, including science, where we have individuals working in advanced areas like space physics.

My involvement in community activities began at a young age. I started participating in youth clubs at 16 and have been deeply involved in various activities within the Oshwal Association and other charitable endeavours. This involvement has been driven by a strong desire to give back to the community and help those in need. I have also been involved in significant events, such as organising parts of Prime Minister Modi’s visit to the UK and raising funds for various causes through different organisations.

I regularly read iGlobal News and Professor Atul Shah’s column. It’s inspiring to see our community being recognised in the UK. Our temple at the centre is a remarkable site, located in the countryside surrounded by green space, unlike other temples in town. It offers a serene and beautiful environment, and we welcome everyone to visit.