Manitoba Hindu Seniors

Manitoba Hindu Seniors

Sharing knowledge and building social harmony through culture

By: Nolan Bicknell

Photo credit: Ian McCausland

“Winnipeg is such a multicultural place, and we need to know each other’s cultures, otherwise, there will not be any harmony,” says Shashwati Shome, Board Chair at Manitoba Hindu Seniors (MHS). “Knowing about culture, respecting other cultures, is a very special thing, and our seniors feel that way too.”

When Shashwati Shome joined the volunteer Board at MHS she made it a priority to create and promote cultural education and understanding for all of MHS’s members. In the last two years alone, they’ve hosted multicultural activities with groups from Romania, Nepal, and local Indigenous communities.

“Within India, there are so many different cultures, different practices, different food, different traditions, dances, and languages,” says Shome. “So we want to continue helping members ‘know your India’, but at the same time, bring in some multicultural groups to showcase for our seniors. And they love it, they absolutely love it.”

MHS offers more than programs; it offers a place to gather, reconnect, and feel at home. Regular activities create space for conversation, laughter, and shared experiences, helping to reduce isolation and support emotional well-being. Seniors are building friendships that extend beyond scheduled events and into everyday life.

Food is a constant at MHS. The new kitchen helps facilitate everything from meals to simple tea gatherings for its members. Lunch is provided for full-day programming, snacks and tea are provided for half-day programming. Vegetables are always on the menu, as most of the members are vegetarian.

A kitchen renovation was needed to ensure the space is safe, functional, and welcoming for everyone who uses it. WiBy Nolan Bicknellth support from a 2025 Community Grant from Winnipeg Foundation, MHS upgraded the space to continue offering inclusive programming where food, culture, and community come together.

“Before the renovations, the kitchen floor was cracked, the cupboards were falling apart, sinks were dirty, faucets were too short,” says Shome. “Now, the kitchen is very nice and it’s helpful and valuable for the different programs for the children, youth, and seniors. For the community altogether.

The kitchen is used to prepare meals for community members and host cooking classes. It is also available for outside groups to rent for parties, events, or community gatherings.

MHS also provides opportunities for their members to explore the city, organizing trips to Fort Whyte, Pinawa, The Leaf, and The Mint. Typically, members have to be 55+ to join MHS, but these trips are open to non-members.

“We are on the bus, they are laughing, they are giggling, singing and having a good time,” says Shome. “New members are making friends with our existing members; it’s a lot of fun for them.”
There’s also an intentional push to connect seniors with youth organizations and performers from both traditional Indian and other cultural backgrounds.

“We love involving our younger generations,” says Shome. “They come, they sing, they dance for the seniors. It’s very nice. It keeps [members] young.”

These intergenerational moments help pass along traditions while creating space for new ones to grow. Young people gain a deeper understanding of culture and community, while seniors remain connected, active, and engaged. The goal is to strengthen a sense of continuity across generations.

Membership has grown over the past two years, attributed in part to the social and emotional benefits of gathering in person to share time, space, ideas, language, and meals.

“It’s important for our members, because they’re coming from India, and there are different cultures within it,” says Shome. “Their roots become so important to everybody, and they’re also interested to know about other cultures.”

MHS hosts holiday celebrations, but not specifically faith-based events. All are welcome and encouraged to participate. Shome hopes to expand the experiences and volunteer opportunities for members to give back.
“I’d like to continue with all these seminars and presentations that involve learning and knowledge sharing that will benefit our seniors,” says Shome. “And continue building the bridge between cultures.”