The Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh UK (HSS) in Bradford brought the local community together for a vibrant cultural celebration at The Beacon at Lister Park on Tuesday, 2 September 2025, as part of the city-wide Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture programme.

Organised by the Madhav Kendra Elderly Centre, the event showcased the richness and diversity of Hindu culture through prayer, music, dance and wellbeing activities. The afternoon began with a traditional Aarti prayer, followed by mantra recitations performed by children, setting a warm and spiritual tone for the gathering.

Guests were treated to a series of colourful cultural performances, including a lively Gujarati Dandia Dance presented by twenty-four enthusiastic members of Madhav Kendra. Younger participants also took to the stage with energetic dance performances, bringing together different generations in celebration.

Health and wellbeing were also at the heart of the programme. Yoga practitioner Satish Shah led a 45-minute chair yoga session, encouraging attendees to take part in gentle movements designed to support physical and mental wellbeing. The atmosphere became even more joyful as participants joined together for traditional Garba singing and dancing.

The event also included a short presentation highlighting the work of HSS across the UK and in Bradford, demonstrating how the organisation supports community service, cultural education and wellbeing initiatives that bring people together.

More than 220 people from a wide range of ages, faiths and backgrounds attended the celebration, including local councillors and officers from the City Ward Neighbourhood team, reflecting the inclusive spirit of the event.

The afternoon concluded with a shared Indian lunch, giving guests the chance to connect, socialise and enjoy traditional food together.

Ashwin Mistry, organiser from HSS Bradford, said: “It was wonderful to see people of all generations and backgrounds come together to celebrate culture, community and wellbeing. Events like this truly reflect the vibrancy and unity of our city.”