Hindu Forum of Belgium was launched on the 16th of March 2007 in Brussels at the Jolly Hotel. It started through the inspiration of the Hindu Forum of Europe which is based on the working model of the Hindu Forum of Britain’s success.
Vision
Hinduism is officially recognized as a religion in Belgium, enriching the nation’s identity by showcasing the diversity of contemporary Belgian society. It plays an active role in various aspects of Belgian life, including culture, the economy, spirituality, interfaith dialogue, and the promotion of social cohesion.
Mission
The Hindu Forum of Belgium seeks to represent and advocate for the diverse Hindu communities and organizations in Belgium, engaging actively with the government, religious leaders, media, and the general public. This is achieved through continuous dialogue with Belgian authorities, fostering bilateral relationships with religious leaders, and participating in platforms for ongoing interfaith exchange. The Forum also supports migrant Hindu communities in their integration process by facilitating platforms that cater to their spiritual and religious needs.
Values
- Open-Mindedness
- Tolerance
- Honesty
- Empathy
- Equality
- Respect
- Dialogue
Objectives
To achieve its ambitious and vital goals, the Hindu Forum of Belgium commits to undertaking the following activities:
- Develop diverse communication platforms to inform the government, media, public, and Hindu community about its activities and to issue statements on key matters.
- Publish updated materials about the Hindu Forum and Hinduism, ensuring broad distribution.
- Compile and maintain a database of essential and valuable contacts.
- Engage with political, religious, and other leaders in Belgium to share the Forum’s activities and highlight the needs and concerns of the Hindu community.
- Regularly meet with community members to provide updates on the Forum’s initiatives.
- Organize presentations on Hinduism and its role in Belgian society.
- Research and stay informed about opportunities for including Hinduism in Belgian school curricula.
- Participate in significant international conferences on relevant topics.
- Expand the Forum’s membership base.
- Develop and implement an annual fundraising strategy.
- Host a VIP event every few years.
- Organize an annual event for the Forum’s members and the broader Hindu community.
- Take part in key conferences in Belgium on topics of mutual interest.
- Establish standard procedures for the recognition of spiritual counselors.
- Establish a Hindu Resources Hub to provide Forum members with a comprehensive directory of useful contacts, including pandits, cooks, dancers, event halls, musicians, Ayurvedic doctors, and teachers of Hinduism.
Members
These are the current members of the Hindu Forum of Belgium:
ISKCON Antwerpen – A key center for Krishna consciousness in Antwerp, offering bhakti-yoga education and community programs like Food for Life and the Ratha Yatra festival.
Brahma Kumaris Belgium – Focused on Raja Yoga meditation, personal transformation, and sustainability, with strong digital outreach to promote spiritual education and inner leadership.
Bhaktivedanta College – A premier institution for Vaishnava theology, blending scriptural studies with accredited academic programs.
Centre de Bhakti Yoga de Bruxelles (CBY) – A Brussels-based hub for bhakti-yoga practice, promoting Vaisnava philosophy through community events, and vegetarian food distribution.
Indian Cultural Centar – Brussels Mandir – A central Hindu worship space in Brussels, hosting major festivals, youth programs, and interfaith dialogue.
Namaskar asbl – Fosters cultural exchange, organizes Hindu festivals, and supports families while strengthening Hindu representation in Belgium.
Radhadesh – A major ISKCON center in Belgium combining spiritual education, cultural events, and eco-friendly initiatives. Promotes Krishna-bhakti through community outreach.
Board of Directors
Martin Gurvich (Mahaprabhu dasa)
Jeysen Rungiah
Avinash Orie (Gopi Ramana dasa)
Staff
Dario Knez
