Communities Minister launches Hindu Council of Wales –

New organisation to speak as one voice for Wales’ Hindus

Communities Minister, Huw Lewis, launched the newly formed Hindu Council of Wales on Monday 15th April at the Senedd.

The Council will act as a single voice for Wales’ Hindu population and have three main roles:

• To promote Hindu culture, religion and values.
• To voice issues that concern Hindus at local and national levels.
• To represent Hindus in interfaith work that promotes mutual understanding amongst other faith organisations and their members.

Speaking in advance of today’s launch the Minister said:

“Modern day Wales is a society built on diverse and multi-cultural communities with people from a whole host of different backgrounds and unique characteristics and experiences. I strongly believe that this is what makes Wales such a vibrant nation and I am committed to improving the quality of life for everyone in Wales. I look forward to working with members of the Council.”

“The Welsh Government’s support of strong, integrated communities provides opportunities for neighbourhoods to work together to be resilient and tolerant.”

The Chair of HCW, Mrs Vimla Patel, MBE, said: “I am delighted that HCW has been set up as this organisation is much needed. There are temples and groups all across Wales but until now no one voice to speak on our behalf. HCW will aim to be that voice. It will also promote better understanding of Hindu culture and religion.”

Mrs Nirmala Pisavadia and Mr Naran Patel will represent the HCW on the Welsh Government’s Faith Communities Forum

According to the 2011 census, there are 10,434 Hindus living in Wales, almost double the number from 2001 (5,439). There are Hindus living in every local authority in Wales with the highest numbers in Cardiff (4,736), Swansea (780), Newport (685) and Wrexham (504).