Ilford, London | 1 August 2026. In a memorable evening celebrating culture, community and the enduring bond between India and the global Indian diaspora, the World Council of Hindus UK (formerly VHP UK), in association with Bihar Beyond Boundaries, Bihari Connect UK, Bihar Association UK (BAUK), Mithila Cultural Society UK, and Bihar Foundation (Diaspora Cell, Government of Bihar), had the honour of welcoming Hon. Shri Shailesh Kumar Ji, (Minister for Energy, Government of Bihar), to the historic WCH-Ilford Hindu Centre in London.
Surinder Gautama, President WCH UK, Hon Shailesh Kumar; Prince Lumb Secretary of Ilford Hindu Centre
The occasion was further distinguished by the presence of respected dignitaries, including Shri Vijay Goel (Former Chairman of the London Chamber of Commerce’s Asian Business Association) and Shri Mahendra Singh Jadeja Chairman, International Business and Trade affairs, South Asia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SACCI) alongside community leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs, youth representatives and members of the Indian diaspora from across the United Kingdom. Their participation added significance to an evening dedicated to strengthening cultural, social and economic connections between India and the UK.
Offering Aarti at the temple – Ilford Hindu Centre
The evening commenced with a traditional welcome, reflecting India’s timeless values of “Atithi Devo Bhava” (The Guest is Divine). The Minister was received with warmth and respect by the leadership of the World Council of Hindus UK before offering prayers at the temple, symbolising the shared spiritual and cultural heritage that continues to unite Indians across the world.
Addressing the gathering, Hon. Shri Shailesh Kumar Ji highlighted Bihar’s rapid progress in infrastructure, energy, industrial development and governance. He emphasised the Bihar Government’s commitment to creating an investment-friendly environment while encouraging the global diaspora to become active partners in the state’s economic growth and social development.
The Minister acknowledged the invaluable contribution of the Indian community in the United Kingdom, praising their achievements while encouraging them to remain connected to their roots and contribute towards Bihar’s continued progress through knowledge exchange, entrepreneurship and community partnerships.
Speaking on behalf of the World Council of Hindus UK, President Shri Surinder Gautama welcomed the distinguished guest and reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to promoting Hindu values, cultural preservation, community welfare and unity throughout the United Kingdom.
The leadership also shared the organisation’s vision for the coming years, including the announcement of the First British National Hindu Conference, scheduled to take place in London in July 2027. The conference aims to bring together Hindu organisations, professionals, faith leaders, youth organisations and community representatives from across the country to strengthen unity, promote dialogue and collectively address issues affecting the British Hindu community.
During the event, discussions also focused on strengthening cooperation between Bihar and the UK in areas including education, renewable energy, technology, innovation, skills development and diaspora engagement. Participants expressed keen interest in supporting initiatives that would create lasting partnerships benefiting both Bihar and the Indian community overseas.
Representatives from the partner organisations welcomed the Minister’s vision of building stronger global engagement with Biharis living abroad and appreciated the Bihar Government’s efforts through the Bihar Foundation to maintain meaningful connections with the international diaspora.
As the World Council of Hindus UK continues to expand its national outreach and community initiatives, the successful visit of Hon. Shri Shailesh Kumar Ji stands as a testament to the growing collaboration between government, community organisations and the global Indian diaspora.
“When culture, community and leadership come together, they create lasting partnerships that inspire future generations.”
By Prince M.Lumb
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