Thousands of Hindus across the UK united to commemorate the first Hindu Memorial Day.

More than 100 people from Slough, Windsor, Maidenhead, and surrounding areas gathered at Slough Hindu Mandir to participate.

The event, held on Saturday, September 28, was a new initiative to honour those who dedicated their lives to protecting Hindu civilisations.

Hindu Memorial Day is part of a new initiative to honour those who dedicated their lives to protecting Hindu civilisationsHindu Memorial Day is part of a new initiative to honour those who dedicated their lives to protecting Hindu civilisations (Image: Hindu Memorial Day)

 

The event was part of a national commemoration, with similar gatherings at Hindu Mandirs and community centres across England, Northern Ireland, Wales, and Scotland.

Pritesh Patel, representing the Hindu Memorial Day team, said: "Hindu Memorial Day is not just a remembrance; it’s a celebration of resilience.

"Today, British Hindus are among the most successful faith communities in the UK, and we are proud to recognise that this success is built on the sacrifices of generations before us."

The event saw a collaboration with various Hindu organisations, featuring programme of prayers, bhajans, a speech about the day's significance, and a 15-minute video providing further context.

Bharat Mistry, coordinator of the Slough programme, said: "This is a day for reflection, gratitude, and recognition of our shared Hindu heritage.

"We are pleased that several Hindu organisations were able to join us to pay tribute to the generations who have sacrificed their lives for Hindu Dharma."

The day coincided with the final weekend of Pitru Paksha, a period in the Hindu lunar calendar dedicated to honouring departed ancestors.