Gujarati Association celebrates opening of new hall
An organisation that helps Indian families to preserve their culture has opened a new hall to cope with increasing demand for its services.
The Gujarati Association says it has outgrown its existing building in Wolverhampton and needs the additional space on the site to cater for the city's 500-odd Gujarati families.
Gujarati people are an ethnic group stemming from the Gujarat state in India and traditionally speak the Gujarati language.
The Sitara Hall will be used for functions such as weddings and parties and means families will not need to travel outside the city for such occasions.
Its opening was marked by a religious ceremony at the Mander Street premises, along with Indian dance performances and a meal.
A plaque was unveiled by past president Dayabhai Patel and current president Naresh Patel.
Secretary Anil Patel said: "The existing premises have definitely been outgrown for many years now.
"It is estimated that we now have about 500 Gujarati families here in Wolverhampton."
He added: "This 'new' hall will hopefully offer more than adequate space and facilities here at their doorstep."
The Gujarati Association was established in Wolverhampton in 1976, with the aim of helping Gujarati people to follow their religion and culture.
Mr Patel added: "It has been a great achievement by the Gujarati community in that the project has been fully funded by the kind donations from the Gujarati community only."
