The Hindu Economic Forum (HEF) UK hosted a flagship event, “Policy to Prosperity”, on 25 September 2025 at the Harrow District Masonic Council. Focused on opportunities under the new UK-India Foreign Trade Agreement (FTA), the evening brought together entrepreneurs, professionals, policymakers, and change makers to explore strategies for economic growth.
The event opened with a welcome from HEF UK President Anil Puri, highlighting the Forum’s growing influence, while Sonia Patel hosted the program with elegance and professionalism.
CEO K. Shankar opened the proceedings with HEF’s traditional tribute to Hindu ancestors, honouring their sacrifices and enduring spirit. He highlighted HEF’s 2025 initiatives, showcasing the Forum’s commitment to economic upliftment through dharmic values and community-driven collaboration.
Shankar highlighted that under Swami Vigyananand Ji’s leadership, HEF now operates in 13 countries with over 40 chapters, including five in the UK: London, Buckinghamshire, Glasgow, South London, and Edinburgh. He stressed the Forum’s focus on economic empowerment, avoiding politics and spirituality to ensure initiatives drive tangible growth, and proudly declared the year’s theme: “A Year of Accomplishments, A Future of Ambition.”
HEF UK’s 2025 milestones have showcased remarkable growth and engagement.The year began with the launch of the Glasgow Chapter in January, attended by MPs, councillors, and entrepreneurs, followed by the introduction of HEF Launchpad in May, modeled on Shark Tank and Dragons’ Den—where three of five pitched businesses secured investor backing. July saw the launch of the South London Chapter, attracting over 120 businesses, while August featured the Annual WHEF 2025 Forum in Australia, drawing global participation. Looking ahead, HEF UK will close the year with its final event on 4 December at the Blue Room, led by the Hindu Women Entrepreneurs Network (HWEN) and featuring a business Expo. For 2026, plans include celebrating the Scotland Chapter anniversary with the launch of Edinburgh, marking the anniversary of HEF Launchpad, and announcing further initiatives. Most ambitiously, preparations are underway to host the Global HEF Meeting in London in 2028, uniting all international chapters for a landmark summit.
Rajesh, President of the London Chapter, highlighted HEF’s philosophy, describing the Forum as “not just an organisation, it is a movement, a bridge connecting knowledge, resources, and opportunities to build a prosperous future for all.” The evening’s highlight was a panel moderated by HEF UK Vice President Subhash Thakrar OBE, featuring Ash Verma, Siddhart Mukne, Mitul Ruparelia, Sachin Nandha, and Dr Gautam Sen, who unpacked the UK–India FTA with clarity. From reducing tariffs to expanding market access, they offered practical strategies for businesses to capitalise on the landmark agreement. Audience feedback praised the session as “enlightening, inspiring, and actionable,” with each speaker providing insights on trade facilitation, finance, entrepreneurship, and international relations.
Feedback from members and attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the session as informative, practical, and inspiring, providing clarity on how businesses can navigate the evolving trade landscape and seize opportunities under the UK–India FTA.
HEF’s success continues to be driven by connectivity, with thousands of members worldwide forging partnerships, facilitating business, and creating impact. The Hindu Women Entrepreneurs Network (HWEN) announced its next anniversary event on 4 December at the Blue Room, featuring a business Expo for showcasing products and services.
The Young Hindu Entrepreneurs Network (YHEN) also shared their vision of spreading dharmic values to the next generation, reinforcing HEF’s role in nurturing future leaders. The evening concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks, recognising the dedication of the panellists, core team, and especially CEO K. Shankar, whose leadership ensured the event’s resounding success.
