BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha in the UK and across Europe observed the UN’s International Women’s Day with inspiring programmes in over 30 centres around the region.
International Women’s Day (IWD), which falls annually on 8 March, was ratified by the United Nations in 1977 to honour the significant contributions of women throughout the course of history.
This year’s celebrations, titled “Celebrating Women: Give to Gain”, encouraged participants to reflect on how selfless actions can positively impact families, communities, and society.
Inspired by the guidance of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj to understand and appreciate the goodness in one another, the programmes highlighted the importance of patience, inclusivity, and kindness in everyday interactions.
Through a blend of engaging presentations, reflective moments, and real-life experiences shared by women from the community, attendees explored how small yet meaningful acts of giving can lead to personal growth and collective harmony.
Many programmes featured creative segments such as portrayals of mentor–mentee relationships, illustrating how both individuals grow through generosity, guidance, and mutual respect, as well as reflections on the wider impact of positive actions in helping others feel valued and included.
Participants were also encouraged to consider simple commitments they could adopt in their daily lives – from offering a smile or kind word to someone new, to listening more attentively and supporting others with empathy and understanding.
BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha’s celebration of IWD represents its ongoing commitment to women and matters of importance to women, as inspired and guided by BAPS’s spiritual leader, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj.
Please click the thumbnails below to see galleries of the respective events.