Hindu Swayamsewak Sangh celebrating its 50th year in U.K. and its culmination in House of Lords is zenith of remarkable achievements. Every Hindu aware of achievements of such magnificent organisation must feel proud. I am attached to Sangh from my school days, in Nakuru-Kenya, till 1956: and in Croydon, U.K. since 1982. Thus I wish to add my experiences. I have observed many discipline traits inculcated in all those who attend group meetings known as “shakha”.
I attended senior adults known as “proudha” shakha, and participated in many “bethaks” where we met Narendra Modi twice. In one sangha bethak/ meeting, visiting pracharak Bhideji observed admixture of sangha and Vishwa Hindu Parishad. He mentioned that both organisations were independent and decisions must be taken separately. This resulted in formation of VHP-Executive Committee separate from Sangh. I was asked to devote my time to develop Vishwa Hindu Parishad. List of achievements by VHP available from VHP offices in Croydon.
However it must be mentioned that H.S.S. provided fullest support to VHP, via its volunteers. It helped me personally as I was the Secretary. Fullest help was also rendered during celebration of Hindu festivals and especially towards fund raising programs- eg Gayatri Havan and Ramayana Parayan, under banner of V.H.P. This help and assistance was reinforced by efficient Executive Committee of the V.H.P. I must therefore praise HSS setting an example of a family “sangha parivar.”
I am sure that fullest account of H.S.S. on national level can reveal many heartwarming details. Personally, and at Croydon level, I found all sangh workers as tireless, selfless and willing to help where ever needed. Shakha in Croydon is a close knit organisation via sangha meetings, bethaks and modernised with network of internet. H.S.S. must continue its efforts to implant cultural values and empower all shakha members, and all Hindus.
Ramesh Jhalla
By email
