Press Release
30/09/2025
For Immediate Release
A week of religious festivities in Greater Manchester is bringing together diverse communities at a real time of need, according to organisers.
The North West Bengali Hindu Cultural Association (NWBHCA) has brought the vibrant traditions of Durga Puja to Oldham, uniting communities in a five-day celebration of culture and devotion at Shree Swaminarayan Mandir.
This year’s Durga Puja organised by NWBHCA have already welcomed more than 1,000 attendees, with numbers expected to double by the conclusion on Wednesday 1st October.
Sreekanta Bhattacharyya, Secretary of the North West Bengali Hindu Cultural Association, said: “This year’s Durga Puja feels especially meaningful.
“At a time when many are feeling divided, to see people from so many backgrounds come together in prayer, music, and fellowship has been deeply moving.
“It shows just how powerful our traditions are in bringing comfort and joy when we need it most.
“On Tuesday 30th September, the Mahanavami Puja serves as the highlight of the festivities, estimated to have over 600 worshippers to take part in prayer and celebrations throughout the day festivities start from 10am to 10pm."
The celebrations began on Saturday and will conclude on Wednesday 1st October.
Durga Puja, also known as Durgotsava or Sharadotsava, is one of the most important festivals in the Hindu calendar, honouring Goddess Durga’s victory over the demon Mahishasura and symbolising the triumph of good over evil.
The festival is marked with prayer, music, cultural performances, food, and fellowship, making it both a spiritual and cultural highlight for Hindus worldwide.
Anil Kara, Trustee of Shree Swaminarayan Mandir Oldham expressed pride in hosting the event, noting: “This is the second time we have welcomed the North West Bengali Hindu Cultural Association.
“Our doors are open to everyone, and in times like these, it is heartening to see that faith and culture can bring people together across communities.”
The partnership between the North West Bengali Hindu Cultural Association and Shree Swaminarayan Mandir reflects the unifying spirit of Durga Puja.
NWBHCA President Gyan Singh added: “The timing of this festival couldn’t be better. It has reminded us of the strength we find in unity.
“These celebrations are about more than faith, bringing people together to support one another, and finding light in a community.”
The North West Bengali Hindu Cultural Association (NWBHCA) has brought the vibrant traditions of Durga Puja to Oldham, uniting communities in a five-day celebration of culture and devotion at Shree Swaminarayan Mandir.
This year’s Durga Puja organised by NWBHCA have already welcomed more than 1,000 attendees, with numbers expected to double by the conclusion on Wednesday 1st October.
Sreekanta Bhattacharyya, Secretary of the North West Bengali Hindu Cultural Association, said: “This year’s Durga Puja feels especially meaningful.
“At a time when many are feeling divided, to see people from so many backgrounds come together in prayer, music, and fellowship has been deeply moving.
“It shows just how powerful our traditions are in bringing comfort and joy when we need it most.
“On Tuesday 30th September, the Mahanavami Puja serves as the highlight of the festivities, estimated to have over 600 worshippers to take part in prayer and celebrations throughout the day festivities start from 10am to 10pm."
The celebrations began on Saturday and will conclude on Wednesday 1st October.
Durga Puja, also known as Durgotsava or Sharadotsava, is one of the most important festivals in the Hindu calendar, honouring Goddess Durga’s victory over the demon Mahishasura and symbolising the triumph of good over evil.
The festival is marked with prayer, music, cultural performances, food, and fellowship, making it both a spiritual and cultural highlight for Hindus worldwide.
Anil Kara, Trustee of Shree Swaminarayan Mandir Oldham expressed pride in hosting the event, noting: “This is the second time we have welcomed the North West Bengali Hindu Cultural Association.
“Our doors are open to everyone, and in times like these, it is heartening to see that faith and culture can bring people together across communities.”
The partnership between the North West Bengali Hindu Cultural Association and Shree Swaminarayan Mandir reflects the unifying spirit of Durga Puja.
NWBHCA President Gyan Singh added: “The timing of this festival couldn’t be better. It has reminded us of the strength we find in unity.
“These celebrations are about more than faith, bringing people together to support one another, and finding light in a community.”
-ENDS-
About Shree Swaminarayan Mandir:
- Shree Swaminarayan Mandir is a prominent Hindu temple located in Oldham, England.
- The temple, which cost £7m and funded entirely by volunteers, is known for hosting various religious and cultural events throughout the year, including Diwali and other Hindu festivals.
- Located at Copster Hill Road, Oldham, OL8 1QB
- www.oldhamandir.faith
- info@swaminarayan-oldham.org
- +44 (0)161 652 0993
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