Shree Katch Leva Patel Community (SKLPC), UK organised its annual mela on Sunday. Thousands of people from the community attended the celebration. It was a landmark event for the SKLPC as it has started fundraising for its upcoming India Gardens project of sports, health and community center. The project is estimated to cost twelve million pounds, excluding VAT. The community has an ambitious plan to finish the project in three years.
Newly elected President Shri Velji Vekaria set the ball rolling in presence of Swaminarayan saints and community leaders. Presence of local politicians across the party line and international guests added flavor to the event. Thousands of people had their vegetarian lunch before aarati and 'deep pragatya' (lighting of lamp ceremony).
Planning for the India Gardens project began in May 2016 and its completion is expected by the fourth quarter of 2022. It is planned to have a large sports hall, gym facilities, kitchen, cafe, dining areas, wedding and other facilities for the community. SKLPC was founded in 1972 and by 2022 when it will celebrate its 50th anniversary, the India Gardens project is expected to be ready.
Shri Veljibhai informed that there are over 6000 families of Leva Patel in the UK and if they contribute £2000 each, the targeted donation of £12 million can be achieved. The amount can be paid in installments over a period of three years by when the project is scheduled to be completed. It resonated very well with community members.
The mela had many stalls and cultural performances. The progress that SKLPC has made in less than fifty years in planning such a remarkable art community and sports center is praiseworthy. Such facilities help the community to stand united and progress. It was remarkable that representatives from Kutch and other areas were also present in the Mela. Maintaining connection with motherland is essential and that's what SKLPC has demonstrated successfully by bridging members across the world.
(Expressed opinion is personal)
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