A vigil took place in Oxford on Monday, August 31, as part of ongoing efforts to assist communities in Nepal grappling with the aftermath of catastrophic flooding and landslides.
The gathering was hosted at the Oxford Hindu Temple and Community Centre, situated on Marsh Lane in the Marston area of the city.
Three organisations collaborated to stage the event: the temple itself, the charitable group Help for Nepal, and the local Nepalese Community Oxfordshire group.
Traditional oil lamps known as diyas were arranged to create the word Nepal in front of the shrine as part of the commemorative programme.
Captain Tulasi Prasad Paudel, a retired officer representing Help for Nepal, addressed those assembled.
He conveyed that solidarity extended to families who had lost relatives, individuals who had lost shelter and employment, and all those continuing to endure the effects of the severe flooding and landslides.
Capt Paudel expressed appreciation to residents throughout Oxfordshire and further afield who had already shown support through financial contributions, written messages, and spiritual practices.
Further assistance was sought as the fundraising initiative continues.
Deepa Thapa, who chairs the Oxfordshire Nepalese Community, addressed the gravity of the situation and urged additional contributions from the public.
The programme featured devotional music, special religious observances, and speeches from various participants.
Total contributions have approached the £8,000 mark to support recovery operations in Nepal.
Contributions may be submitted via justgiving.com/campaign/helpnepal.
