His Holiness Shri Ramesh-bhai Oza last visited Leicester 14 years ago
Youngsters are being encouraged to “adopt a grandparent” during the eight-day Katha festival which takes place next month.
The Hindu religious event, which begins on July 26, also welcomes his Holiness Shri Rameshbhai Oza, known as Bhaishri – a living saint and scholar.
He will read from the Shrimad Bhagvatam – a religious Hindu text – as part of the festival being held at Rushey Mead Recreation Grounds, in Melton Road.
The aim of the Katha is to “spread the message of love, peace and harmony in a time of uncertainty” through the teachings of the Holi Hindu scriptures.
Dipak Lakhani, one of the sponsors of the recital, said: “Hinduism promotes serving our respected elders and we thought it would be nice for the younger generation to help serve the elderly during the eight days to make their experience as enjoyable as possible.
“The youth will also benefit from potentially developing and establishing a long-standing bond with them.
“We hope that the youth continue to meet these individuals in their care homes and spend time with as they would after the eight-day Katha.”
His Holiness Shri Ramesh-bhai Oza last visited the city 14 years ago for the same event and attracted about 50,000 people from across the world.
This year, a small “village” of marquees will be erected at the site to accommodate visitors, speakers, musicians and devotees.
Mahesh Thakrar, one of the organisers, said: “We are all ecstatic, this is going to be a legendary Katha leaving a mark of love and spirituality into all our lives.
“We are honoured to be volunteers for this Katha by helping to sponsor it along with other businesses, too.”
The Katha will take place from July 26 until August 2. For more details, see:www.krishnaspeaks.co.uk