AN event is being held next week to celebrate the spirit of community excellence within the district’s Hindu community.
Organised by the Bradford Hindu Council, the first ever Bradford Diwali Awards are set to honour the unsung heroes whose contributions to the local community have changed people’s lives.
The ceremony will take place on Thursday, October 26, at Odsal Stadium in Bradford – home to the Bradford Bulls.
Organisers said the event, which will see community members, dignitaries and supporters coming together, has “sold out rapidly”.
They added “The Bradford Diwali Awards are more than just accolades; they are a testament to the remarkable work done by individuals and groups to strengthen community bonds and create a brighter future for all.
“This is recognition of these community champions; they represent the spirit of unity, diversity, and cultural richness that defines Bradford. The awards span across various categories, each designed to celebrate a unique aspect of community contribution.”
There are a total of 11 award categories, which are: Empowering Children through Sports; Diversity in Inclusive Women's Sports Promotion; Community Unity through Charity; Educational Excellence and Community Engagement; Community Mental Health, Wellness and Awareness; Cultural Preservation and Religious Understanding; Community Empowerment through Quiet and Humble Leadership; Cultural and Faith Pioneers and Promotion; Cultural Heritage, Folk Music and Language Education; Independent Living and Community Support and Inspiring Youth Leader & Outstanding Community Organizer.
Deepak Sharma, one of the organisers said: “These categories represent the diverse tapestry of contributions that define Bradford's Hindu community spirit.
“The Bradford Diwali Awards stand as a testament to the city's unity and commitment to celebrating the remarkable individuals and groups who tirelessly work to make a difference within the community, spanning diverse fields of culture, education, sports, and community welfare.
“So we look forward to the first-ever Bradford Diwali Awards, we anticipate an evening filled with recognition, celebration, and unity, showcasing the strength of Bradford's community bonds and the indomitable spirit of its people.
“As the city prepares to shine even brighter during this Diwali season, the Bradford Diwali Awards stand as a beacon of hope, light and inspiration for all communities. They have the potential to become a cherished tradition, celebrating Bradford's diversity, resilience, and the strong spirit of its people.”
Diwali is the five-day Hindu festival of lights which occurs in autumn every year to celebrates the return of Lord Rama - an avatar of the Hindu supreme god Lord Vishnu - to the Kingdom of Ayodhya.
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