Hindu communities, inspired by Mitzvah Day, announce first National Sewa Day

FOLLOWING in the footsteps of Mitzvah Day, a Jewish-led initiative which encourages people to donate their time rather than money to good causes, Hindu communities throughout the country will mark the first ever National Sewa Day, on the same date, Sunday, November 21.
Together, Mitzvah Day and National Sewa Day are expected to attract around 20,000 volunteers to support at least 250 projects and initiatives across the country. While both events have been organised by faith groups, anyone can take part in Mitzvah Day and National Sewa Day, regardless of race, religion or belief.
This year’s projects include collecting food and household goods for the homeless, visiting the elderly and renovating schools and community centres.
Mitzvah Day founder and director Laura Marks said: “I’m so excited that this year we have been joined by the Hindu community. “This will mean we can have double the impact of our good deeds. “This is a great example of interfaith action, with two of the world’s great religions working together for the good of the whole wider community.”
Arup Ganguly, chairman of National Sewa Day, added: “This is an important new initiative for the Hindu community. Sewa is an important value that is instilled in all of us.
“With National Sewa Day, on a single day we will join together to reach out to others and perform a variety of good deeds in our communities. I am proud that in doing so we will be working with our Jewish friends and neighbours with whom we share so many of our core values of respect and service.”
Last year, a team of volunteers from Newsquest North London helped renovate the run-down garden at Oak Lodge School, in Heath View, East Finchley, which caters for 11 to 19-year-olds with special needs.
Now the team are readying themselves once more to lend a helping hand to a worthy cause in the community.
Perhaps you know of a community centre that needs redecorating or allotments and green spaces that need clearing?
Simply email your idea to Francine Wolfisz at fwolfisz@london.newsquest.co.uk or call 020 8359 5921.
The closing date for entries is Friday, November 5.