Representing Hindu communities and serving Belgian society

Representing Hindu communities and serving society

The Hindu Forum of Belgium represents Hindu communities at national level and works to strengthen their contribution to Belgian society. Rooted in diversity and dialogue, we promote mutual understanding, civic engagement and cooperation with public institutions.

Our Recognition Journey

The Hindu Forum of Belgium was created to serve as a representative platform for Hindu communities and organisations across the country. Its mission is to ensure structured dialogue with public authorities, support community life, and contribute constructively to Belgium’s plural and democratic society.

In Belgium, the recognition of religions is a multi-step procedure based on a set of legal and institutional criteria. The Hindu Forum of Belgium has been engaged for many years in this process, working with the competent authorities and partner organisations to establish a clear and transparent framework for Hindu representation.

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2007

HFB founded in Brussels

The Hindu Forum of Belgium (HFB) is created in Brussels as a national umbrella platform, bringing together Hindu, Vedic and Sanatana Dharma communities.

2013

Formal recognition request submitted

The Hindu Forum submits a formal request in the context of the official recognition procedure for Hinduism in Belgium. This marks the start of a more structured, long-term engagement with the competent authorities.

2016

Government subsidy application for the HFB Secretariat

HFB applies for government support to strengthen the Secretariat, with the aim of professionalising coordination, improving follow-up, and ensuring continuity in institutional dialogue and community support.

2023

First subsidy granted by law to pursue recognition

A first subsidy is granted by law in support of the recognition process. This milestone confirms the importance of a structured approach and supports HFB’s ongoing work with communities and institutions.

Governance and Secretariat

Saurabh Kumar, the Ambassador of India

The Hindu Forum of Belgium operates according to clear governance principles that ensure transparency, accountability and collective decision-making.

Its structure is based on three complementary bodies:

General Assembly

The deliberative body bringing together member organisations and defining major orientations.

Board of Directors

Responsible for strategic direction, representation and oversight.

Secretariat

Ensures daily coordination, external relations and follow-up of ongoing work.

Member Organizations

The Hindu Forum of Belgium brings together a wide range of Hindu organisations active across the country, including temples, cultural associations and community initiatives.

These organisations reflect the diversity of Hindu traditions, languages and cultural backgrounds present in Belgium, while sharing a commitment to dialogue, service and cooperation.

Meet the team

Board members and Secretariat team

Martin Gurvich

President

Jeysen Rungiah

Vice-president

Michalina Pabianczyk

Administration

Avinash Orie

Treasurer

Dario Knez

Webmaster

Partnerships and Interfaith Relations

The Hindu Forum of Belgium actively engages in dialogue and cooperation with other religious and philosophical communities, as well as with public institutions.

Through these partnerships, the Forum contributes to mutual understanding, peaceful coexistence and social cohesion. It participates in interfaith platforms and maintains constructive relationships with Christian, Jewish, Muslim and other partners in Belgium.

This work reflects a shared commitment to respect, dialogue and common values in a plural society.

Transparency and good governance are central to the work of the Hindu Forum of Belgium. The organisation operates in accordance with Belgian legal requirements and applies clear internal rules to ensure responsible management, accountability and continuity.

Statutes

Activity Report

Contact Us

For any questions or requests, please contact the Secretariat using the form below.

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