Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (UK) has marked the 50th anniversary of its flagship leadership development programme, Sangh Shiksha Varg (SSV), with record-breaking participation, 605 attendees supported by 139 volunteers, the highest in its history. Participants from 65 towns across all four UK nations joined the four-year structured programme, which blends traditional value-based education with leadership training.
Notably, 167 working professionals sacrificed their annual leave to serve as instructors and support staff, investing in the next generation of “self-inspired future leaders without ego and a commitment to making society better,” said Baiju Shah, overall coordinator at one location.
The four-year structured SSV programme aims to develop “self-inspired future leaders without ego and a commitment to making society better,” says Baiju Shah, overall coordinator at one location. Blending physical, intellectual, and spiritual training, participants — from teenagers to adults in their fifties — follow a demanding daily schedule from 6 am to 10 pm, including yoga, team activities, lectures, meditation, and community service.
This year’s SSV saw remarkable intergenerational participation, including a family with a grandfather, father, and son attending together. Over 190 visitors from charities, faith groups, local authorities, and interfaith networks toured the facilities, with Councillor Pauline Jorgenson of Wokingham Borough Council praising the event’s atmosphere and community impact.
Centred on Sanskar (values and character), Sewa (selfless service), and Sanghathan (unity), SSV blends practical leadership training with traditional Hindu principles. Since 1975, it has produced graduates who serve their communities and excel in careers, public service, and entrepreneurship. University student and graduate Eeshaan noted: “SSV is not only for participants to immerse in Sangh, but also for teachers to grow into better leaders.”
