In June 2014, we established the SNDP YOGAM (Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana Yogam) UK 6170 in Wembley, London, under the umbrella of the SNDP Yogam Kerala, bringing together members from across the UK. While our community has grown, many members have found it challenging to engage in activities due to geographical distance. To enhance participation and support for our members in the southwest regions, we formed the PRAVASI SNDP YOGAM UK in February 2022, with a base in Bristol. Our network now includes units in various locations throughout the southwest and east, including Swindon, Devizes, Bridgwater, Taunton, Barnstaple, Swansea, Southampton, and Eastham. We gather monthly for prayers and meetings, fostering a strong sense of community among our devotees.
The mission of Pravasi SNDP Yogam UK is to promote the teachings and principles of Sree Narayana Guru, foster social harmony, and support the spiritual and cultural development of the community. To educate our members and children on the Sree Narayana Guru’s teachings, we arrange various public functions like Sree Narayana Guru Jayanthi and Guru Samadhi, symbolic pilgrimages, and seminars. The organisation aims to uphold Guru’s ideals of equality, education, and social reform, while also encouraging the welfare and unity of the Malayali diaspora in the United Kingdom. We also actively remain in the cultural and philanthropic activities. The Yogam now caters to diversified goals and empowers the weak and the needy to face socio-economic challenges and the realities of time.
However, we currently face challenges in terms of space (GURU MANDIRAM) for worship and paying homage to Guru and conducting religious rituals, celebrating religious events and family gatherings. The sole Hindu temple in Bristol does not fully accommodate our rituals and communal activities. Recognising our status as a minority group, we see an opportunity to engage with our local council to discuss these challenges and seek their support and guidance in finding a suitable venue for our needs. We look forward to collaborating with community leaders to enhance our collective experience and strengthen our community ties.
