Ashford Dharmik
& Cultural
Society
A registered Hindu charitable society in Ashford, Kent, preserving culture, building community, and celebrating heritage for all ages.
Cultural Society
Community Events
Diwali | Holi | Navratri
200+
Community members
5-8
Events Every Year
31
Registered Members
Free
Entry – Always
Who We Are
Building Community Through Culture, Service & Togetherness
ADCS was established in 2021 by residents of Ashford who recognised the need to strengthen community connections, reduce social isolation, and create opportunities for people to come together in a positive and welcoming environment. Inspired by the values of compassion, respect, service, and inclusivity, ADCS seeks to enrich community life through cultural, educational, social, and spiritual activities that are open to everyone.
We believe that strong communities are built through connection, understanding, and shared experiences. Our programmes and events bring together people of all ages, backgrounds, and beliefs, creating opportunities to learn, celebrate, and support one another. Through cultural festivals, community gatherings, yoga and meditation sessions, spiritual learning and reflection, we promote community wellbeing, social inclusion, lifelong learning, personal growth, and stronger community relationships for the benefit of the wider public.
A key part of our work is creating opportunities for young people to participate actively in community life by showcasing their talents, developing confidence, and building leadership skills. Our welcoming spaces also bring older members of the community together, helping to reduce loneliness, build friendships, and encourage participation in meaningful social activities. By bringing generations together, we strengthen community bonds and promote mutual understanding and respect.
At every event, free meals and refreshments are provided through the generosity of our sponsors who support our mission of bringing people together. Sharing food helps remove barriers to participation and is an important part of our ethos, reflecting the values of hospitality, service, and community care that underpin our work. Our events are generally free to attend and operate with an open-door approach, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate regardless of background or circumstance.
Inspired by Hindu values of compassion, selfless service, respect, and kindness, ADCS welcomes people of every faith, belief, culture, ethnicity, age, and background. We are committed to creating an environment where diversity is celebrated, friendships are formed, and people feel valued, respected, and connected to their community.
- Open-door approach, all communities are welcome
- Free events and activity
- Complimentary meals and refreshments
Our Vision
A Place to Connect, Learn, Celebrate & Belong
The hub will provide facilities for community events, educational programmes, youth engagement, volunteering opportunities, yoga and meditation sessions, cultural celebrations, spiritual reflection, and activities that support mental wellbeing and social connection. It will serve as a vibrant centre where individuals and families can come together to learn, grow, celebrate, and contribute to community life. More than a place of worship, we envision a community resource that promotes understanding, inclusivity, and service.
It will be a place where people can build meaningful relationships, strengthen community ties, preserve cultural heritage, and contribute positively to the wider Ashford community for generations to come.
“Ashford is home to a growing and vibrant multicultural community. Our goal is to create a permanent, accessible space that serves everyone.”
Our Long-Term Mission
Creating a Legacy of Service, Inclusion & Community
As we continue to grow, our long-term mission is to establish a sustainable and inclusive community organisation that serves both current and future generations across Ashford and Kent. By building partnerships, encouraging volunteerism, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting shared values of compassion, service, and respect, we aim to contribute to a stronger, more connected, and resilient society.
We aspire to create a lasting legacy where people from all backgrounds feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to participate in community life, helping to build a more harmonious and inclusive future for all.
Promoting Community Wellbeing and Inclusion for everyone
Celebrating Cultural Diversity and Community Harmony
Encouraging Youth Participation and Volunteering
Supporting Vulnerable and Socially Isolated Individuals
Contributing Positively to the Wider Ashford Community
Organise Charitable Fundraising for Temple and Permanent Hub
What We Provide
A Community Space in Ashford That Will...
Spiritual Wellbeing
Provide a welcoming place for worship, reflection, and spiritual wellbeing
Culture & Festivals
Preserve and celebrate cultural traditions and festivals
Youth & Heritage
Support younger generations in learning about heritage and values
Social Inclusion
Reduce social isolation within the community
Community Empowerment
Create opportunities for volunteering, education, and wellbeing activities
Community Harmony
Bring together people from diverse backgrounds through shared community engagement
What We Stand For
Our Values
Inclusivity
Respect
Community Spirit
Education & Culture
Wellbeing
THE PEOPLE BEHIND ADCS
Our Leaders & Trustees
Professionals from different backgrounds, selflessly dedicating their time to serve the Ashford community.
Kapil Sharma
Trustee
Primary organiser and community leader driving ADCS events across Ashford since 2022.
Dr. Shaveta Mulla
Trustee
Primary organiser and community leader driving ADCS events across Ashford since 2022.
Kalpana Thakur
Trustee
Primary organiser and community leader driving ADCS events across Ashford since 2022.
Ruby Khaira
Trustee
Primary organiser and community leader driving ADCS events across Ashford since 2022.
Jyoti Sharma
Trustee
Primary organiser and community leader driving ADCS events across Ashford since 2022.
Dr. O Akinnawonu
Trustee
Primary organiser and community leader driving ADCS events across Ashford since 2022.

Gurmeet Singh
Member

Priya Patel
Member

Parul Chhabra
Member

Neeru Jain
Member

Parul Vats
Member

Uditi Jain
Member

Parul Dubey
Member

Dr. Sunanda sharma
Member

Ashish Srivastava
Member

Vani Shrivastav
Member

Megha Bharti
Member

Siddhant Kaplish
Member

Manohar Rawat
Member

Manish Mangarhe
Member

Pragya Mangarhe
Member

Rituparna Paul
Member

Richa Sharma
Member

Dr Chaiti Basu
Member

Yeka Balaji
Member

Sunil Gaire
Member

Mukesh Mewara
Member

Dr. Kanwal Chand
Member

Chako P
Member

Dr. S Kowlur
Member

Vishal Patil
Member

Dr Gautam Reddy
Member

Hitesh Mehta
Member
Community Voices
What People Say
Become Part of Our Story
Join Our Growing Community in Ashford
Whether you want to volunteer your time, support us with a donation, or simply attend one of our free events, you are always welcome.