A HINDU temple in Ashton-under-Lyne once again held a special celebration to mark International Women’s Day.
Over 200 women of all ages and diverse backgrounds came together at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir last Saturday (March 15).
Entitled ‘Celebrating Women: Embracing Our Identity’, the programme drew inspiration from women past and present as it focused on the multi-faceted roles females play within families, the workplace and the community.
It delved into the fundamental identity of women, deeply rooted in cultural and spiritual heritage, and explored the importance of protecting, strengthening and rejoicing identities.
These themes were ventured into during the two-hour programme through video presentations, testimonies and an insightful panel discussion as participants shared their personal experiences on the contribution identity makes living in a multicultural, multi-faith community.
In attendance was Ella Allen, a trainee prosecutor with the Crown Prosecution Service, who really enjoyed the occasion.
“It’s been a fabulous celebration of identity, heritage, culture and religion,” she said. “It’s inspired me to be proud of my identity and to be able to share this with others.”
One of the temple’s volunteers, Kashmira Patel, added: “Our identity shaped by values, beliefs and behaviours can build bridges and foster understanding, enabling us to make a meaningful difference in our communities.
“In celebration of International Women’s Day this year, we hope this programme empowered women to celebrate their identity and positively impact the society we live in.”
The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, on Lees Road, provides various educational, community and spiritual activities for children, young people, families and elderly people. It is also a place of worship for hundreds of Hindus across Greater Manchester.
More information about the Mandir can be found at baps.org/manchester.