The Barnet chapter of Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh UK (HSS UK) recently celebrated their seventh year of participation UK Parliament Week, writes Dr Harsha Jani Lead for UK Parliament Week at HSS UK

A row of people stand hands together — Event attendees including Theresa Villiers MP

An event celebrating democracy was attended by local Hindu community members of Shakti Pratāp Shakha and local MP Theresa Villiers, Mayor of Barnet Nagus Narenthira, Cllr Jennifer Growcock and Julie Redmond, Assembly member candidate Barnet & Camden.

The evening included showcasing activities of HSS UK which centre around core Hindu values of Sewa (selfless community service), Sanskar (spiritual development for common good), Sangathan (coming together in community spirit) culminating in promotion of responsible citizenship. Mr Priten Pithadia, a lead volunteer said: “HSS UK’s community service was appreciated by local food banks during Covid-19 pandemic”.

Amongst the yoga, Khel (games) and Parliament quiz there was an opportunity to hear what it means to be an MP, Mayor and a councillor, why participation in politics is necessary and why we should value democracy. During one-to-one conversations, young participants asked questions on local policing, parking in Barnet Hospital and high rise housing impacting the environment. Theresa Villers addressing the HSS UK group said: “The challenges of public service are many but it is in the end very satisfying to know that you are making a difference to ordinary people’s lives.”

The guests commended HSS UK for consistent and committed participation in parliament activities and congratulated the group on getting young people involved in community activities.

Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh UK was 2020 winner of UK Parliament Week Official Partner of the Year Award.

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