THE GREATER MANCHESTER BENGALI HINDU CULTURAL ASSOCIATION

The Greater Manchester Bengali Hindu Cultural Association (GMBHCA) is a nonprofit organisation based in Greater Manchester, United Kingdom, dedicated to celebrating and promoting Bengali Hindu culture and religious traditions. Founded in 1993, the association serves a membership base of over 1,000 families and plays an active role in organising social, cultural, and religious events within the Bengali Hindu community.

History and Purpose

Established in 1993, the Greater Manchester Bengali Hindu Cultural Association was formed to provide a communal platform for Bengali Hindus living in Greater Manchester to celebrate their cultural heritage and religious practices. Over more than three decades, the association has become a central institution fostering cultural continuity and community cohesion.

Activities and Events

GMBHCA is primarily known for organising major Hindu religious festivals such as Durga Puja, Lakshmi Puja, Kali Puja, Saraswati Puja, and Diwali. These events are celebrated with traditional rituals alongside cultural performances that include classical, folk, and Bollywood dances and music. The association also hosts social gatherings like Bijoya Sammilani and Bengali New Year (Naboborsho) celebrations, which enable community members to engage in cultural exchange and festivity.

In addition to religious ceremonies and celebrations, the association encourages youth participation through dramas, music, and dance involving both young community members and invited guest artists. Educational trips and other cultural activities are also part of their programme, aimed at enhancing cultural knowledge and community bonding.

Governance and Volunteers

The association is governed by a board of thirteen trustees and supported by volunteers who contribute particularly during busy festival seasons. No trustees receive remuneration for their services, highlighting the nonprofit nature of the organisation. Volunteer involvement plays a crucial role in the smooth operation of events and activities organised by GMBHCA.

Financial Overview

For the financial year ending 31 May 2023, the Greater Manchester Bengali Hindu Cultural Association reported a total income of £16,780 with expenditures amounting to £19,086. The organisation does not operate any trading subsidiaries and relies on community support and fundraising efforts for its sustainability.

Significance

As a cultural and religious hub, GMBHCA not only preserves and promotes Bengali Hindu traditions in the diaspora but also enriches the multicultural tapestry of Greater Manchester. The association provides a vital link between generations and supports the integration of cultural identity within the broader British social context.

Charity registration number: 1068094

[1] https://manchesterdurgapuja.co.uk [2] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-details/?regId=1068094&subId=0 [3] https://manchesterdurgapuja.co.uk/contact-us [4] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/3939840/trustees [5] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/3939840