The Bradford Hindu Council (BHC) hosted its spectacular, 3rd sold-out Diwali Dinner Dance Awards on Friday, October 10th, 2025, at the Cedar Court Hotel. The event successfully brought together hundreds of community members and civic leaders for a vibrant celebration of the Festival of Lights, culture, and the invaluable contributions of local heroes.
Diwali, the Hindu Festival of Lights, symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. The BHC event provided a crucial opportunity for the Bradford Hindu community to celebrate their heritage, foster cross-cultural understanding, and formally honour those dedicated to selfless service and unity.
A Night of Unity and Tradition
The night was skilfully hosted by the dynamic stage partnership of Ravinder Dharni and Deepak Sharma.
The opening ceremony reflected the event’s deep cultural roots and commitment to interfaith harmony. The ceremony began with a traditional puja (prayers), conducted by Pandit Haridas Shukla, followed by the symbolic lighting of divas (lamps) by the faith leaders and dignitaries.
The BHC welcomed a distinguished line-up of guests, highlighting the event’s civic significance. Attendees included the Lord-Lieutenant of West Yorkshire, Ed Anderson CBE, West Yorkshire Combined Authority Inclusivity Champion Fatima Khan-Shah, Bradford Lord Mayor Councillor Mohammad Shafiq, and Susan Hinchliffe, Leader of the Bradford Council.
They were joined by community stalwarts, Dr Kuldip Kaur Bharj OBE, DL, Humayun Islam BEM, Kaneez Khan MBE, and Ashok Kumar Chauhan MBE, alongside faith leaders Bishop Toby and Suzie and Tom Cree, and representatives from the Race Equality Network (REN).
Honouring Excellence: 2025 Award Winners
The highlight of the evening was the awards ceremony, recognising individuals whose dedication has had a profound impact on the community:
Category
Winner
Sponsor
Presented by
Community Empowerment through Quiet and Humble Leadership Award
Harkishan Mistry
GM Windows
LL Ed Anderson CBE
Cultural Preservation and Religious Understanding Award
Baldev Bhardwaj
Dunkers Delight
Bishop Toby
Empowering Children through Sports Awards
KumaraVel Kurusamy
Sekhon Group
Mr and Mrs Nirmal Singh MBE
Community Empowerment through Quiet and Humble Leadership Award
Ishwar Chouhan
Prashad
Mr Mohan Bhai
Cultural and Faith Pioneers and Promotion Award
Bebi Deb
Bierley Post Office
Mr and Mrs Kiran Basra
Inspiring Youth Leader & Outstanding Community Organiser Champion Award
Kajal Patel
MOJO Restaurant
Sridhar
Special Recognition Champion’s Award
Rajeev Dewedi
Tharavadu
Susan Hinchliffe
Special Recognition Champion’s Award
Rajni Parmar
Majestic Mindsets
Pav Sharma
Special Recognition Champion’s Award
Kamlesh Patel
K S Opticians
Sukhvir Singh Sohal
Harkishan Mistry has been actively involved in numerous Hindu organisations and community programmes over the years. He established and manages a family charity that supports many organisations through donations. Over time, he has also initiated community sewa days, bringing significant benefits to various community groups. Additionally, he has transformed the local elderly group, Anand Milan Elderly Centre, into a vibrant and thriving hub for the elderly Hindu community. Harkishan Ji has been associated with the BHC since its inception, serving as an office bearer and actively participating in all its programmes and events.Bebi Deb exemplifies dedication as a community volunteer. Year after year, she has taken the lead in organizing and planning exceptional Durga Utsav celebrations and other Hindu community events, bringing people together in the spirit of culture, devotion, and unity.Her attention to detail, creativity, and tireless commitment ensure that each event is not only well-executed but truly memorable. Bebi Ji is a shining example of leadership, teamwork, and cultural pride — a true inspiration and a pillar of strength within the Hindu community. Kajal Patel is currently the General Secretary of the Bradford Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh. She has been involved with the Sangh since childhood and is always among the first to volunteer, readily helping with any requests made of her. From the age of 16, Kajal ji has been leading from the front, guiding Hindu girls and women in a variety of cultural activities — from Indian games and singing to camps and discussions on Hinduism. Her dedication, leadership, and commitment make her a true role model for the youth of Bradford.Kamlesh Patel exemplifies the true spirit of dedication, resilience, and community service. Through his unwavering commitment, he has transformed personal passion into meaningful action, raising awareness and vital funds for numerous charitable causes.His extraordinary accomplishments reflect his perseverance and determination: he has completed 10 Great North Runs, 30 Yorkshire Three Peaks challenges, 224 Parkruns, 3 international marathons, and 9 London full marathons. Beyond running, he has also undertaken two grueling 100-mile cycling rides, each demanding immense physical and mental strength. Kamlesh Ji’s remarkable efforts inspire others to push their limits while making a lasting difference in the community.Mr. Baldev Bhardwaj has been associated with the Hindu Cultural Society Bradford (HCS) since the 1970s and has consistently led numerous religious events both at the HCS and in India. Mr Bhardwaj’s award was received by Mrs Santosh BhardwajKumaravel Kurusamy helps organise cricket sessions each year for children aged 6 to 13, in partnership with programmes such as ECB Dynamos. He has also encouraged volunteers—particularly mothers who attend the sessions with their children—to become trained coaches and actively participate in the programme. Kumar’s award was received by Mrs Phoola BaldevRajeev Dewedi has been a long-standing supporter of the Hindu community. He played an active role in engaging the Indian community in the design of the new crematoriums being developed in Bradford. Over the years, he has built strong relationships with various local and national organisations, including the Indian High Commission and local political leaders, for the benefit of the Indian community. Rajeev ji’s award was received by Sarita Dewedi.Ishwarbhai Chouhan, has been a steadfast pillar of the Bradford community for decades. From his early work at the Bradford Sai Centre to leading roles in Friends Who Care Trust and Bradford Yoga Group, he has quietly and selflessly contributed to countless initiatives. Known for his friendly nature, unwavering dedication, and willingness to help behind the scenes, Ishwarbhai embodies the spirit of service. His selfless commitment to multiple community organisations makes him a true silent champion, deserving of recognition and gratitude.Rajni ji Parmar has demonstrated unwavering dedication to the Hindu community. A true father figure to many, he has been a constant source of guidance, support, and inspiration. Through his selfless service, profound wisdom, and exemplary leadership, he has left a lasting impact on countless lives. Rajni ji stands as a pillar of strength, compassion, and unity — a leader who leads by example and uplifts everyone around him. Rajni ji’s award was received on his behalf by Vipin Joshi
Plaques For Contribution to Hindu Community Award
In a special segment, BHC Trustees, alongside Ravinder Dharni and Deepak Sharma, presented “Contribution to Hindu Community Award” plaques to key individuals and partners, including LL Ed Anderson CBE, Sofia Buncy MBE DL, Kuldip Kaur OBE DL, and Nirmal Singh Sekhon MBE.
Runner Up Certificates Presented
Certificates were also presented to a strong field of runners-up, acknowledging their critical contributions to community unity and cultural preservation. The dedicated individuals: Dharmesh Mistry, Reshma Patel, Indu Dharni, Savitha Suresh, Hema Shanmugam, Emily Ghassempour, Jaya Bammi, and Kanti Mistry.
The formal proceedings concluded our hit DJ’s from Soul Asia got the party started with a spectacular performance by the Dynasty Drummers. Their powerful Dhol beats and music from Soul Asia ignited the dance floor, leading into a night of joyous celebration, delicious food, and laughter that embodied the true spirit of Diwali.
The BHC extends its deepest thanks to all sponsors, volunteers, attendees, and distinguished guests for making the Diwali Awards 2025 a resounding success and a powerful testament to the unity and vibrancy of the Bradford community. 🙏
