Personal experience of Gigabhai Keshwala, religious and cultural events

Hemel Hempstead Satsang mandal

I am one of the Ugandan Indian, who came in the Exodus in 1972. My family was given the choice to settle and given job in Hemel Hempstead. I have whatsoever no regret in my life to make new life in Hemel Hempstead as people of Dacorum Borough and the Indian community gave my family lots of support and love to make my family's life comfortable. I am given opportunity to run Hemel Hempstead Satsang Mandal by DIS. This is one of the most lasting activities of Dacorum Indian Society since the arrival of Uganda Asians in Hemel Hempstead. Prior to acquiring Crawley Drive Sheltered community Hall, this activity was run in individual's homes in turn mainly by the ladies. To preserve Hindu culture and religion this activity fulfils one of the objectives of DIS. Hemel Hempstead satsang Mandal are members of DIS and they run activities of the Saffron club. It is one of the most vibrant clubs, where the elderly members of the club meet regularly on Friday. One hour of Yoga exercises are conducted by the members taught by Jignasa Odedra, followed by 'Satsang', singing devotional songs followed by light refreshment. This activity attracts 25 to 50 elderly members of DIS. They share anxiety, experiences, difficulties, and some relief from the members.

Celebrating religious and cultural events

Dacorum Indian Society organised visits to Leicester, Wembley for shopping. We also organise most of the religious and cultural events with the help of DIS. We are grateful to Dacorum Borough Council for providing the Crawley Drive sheltered community hall. Our members also raise funds for local, national, and international charities.