November 24, 2025
Prabh Sandhu
Calgary’s Central Library was transformed into a hub of color, culture, and community on Saturday as hundreds gathered to mark Hindu Heritage Month with a large public celebration highlighting one of the world’s oldest living traditions.
The free event, held in the Patricia Whelan Auditorium and Welcome Gallery, offered an immersive cultural experience for all ages. Attendees enjoyed live traditional music, folk dances, and a musical drama, along with interactive activities including Mehendi (henna), sari draping, and Rangoli art.
A new Rangoli workshop drew especially strong interest from families and young participants.
Children and parents also took part in face painting, Kahoot trivia games, coloring stations, and photo booths, while visitors sampled a variety of vegetarian snacks, including samosas.
Organizers paired the festivities with educational elements such as artist talks, cultural displays, and book giveaways aimed at promoting deeper understanding of Hindu philosophy, history, and artistic traditions.
More than a dozen community groups contributed to the event, including the Hindu Heritage Society, Calgary Public Library, COHNA, and student councils from the University of Calgary. Volunteers said months of planning went into creating a welcoming, inclusive celebration.
Hindu Heritage Month has been recognized nationally since 2016 to honor the contributions of over one million Hindus living in Canada. Organizers say those contributions span science, technology, arts, business, and public service.
“This is more than a cultural event—it’s a celebration of the values that make Canada strong,” one organizer said, noting that the turnout reflected Calgary’s growing diversity and spirit of unity.
Saturday’s showcase offered Calgarians an opportunity not only to celebrate Hindu culture but also to learn, connect, and reflect on the community’s role in shaping Canada’s multicultural identity.
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