About Vishwa Hindu Parishad

A civilisational organisation established in 1964 to organise, strengthen, and serve Hindu society worldwide.

Introduction

The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) was established on August 29, 1964, on the auspicious occasion of Shri Krishna Janmashtami, with the blessings of India's spiritual leadership. Our purpose is to organise Hindu society, protect Hindu dharma, and serve humanity.

VHP is seen as a strong, effective, enduring, and continuously growing organisation in millions of villages and towns across India. With the increase in Hindu activities around the world, a strong and confident Hindu organisation is gradually taking shape.

Through more than 4,277 service projects in the areas of health, education, and self-empowerment, VHP is strengthening the roots of Hindu society.

Purpose & Philosophy

Objective

To organise, consolidate, and serve Hindu society. To protect and promote the eternal values of Sanatana Dharma. To establish a strong, self-reliant, and spiritually grounded Hindu community capable of contributing to global welfare.

Why Vishwa Hindu Parishad

The need for a unified Hindu organisation arose from the recognition that Hindu society, despite its ancient wisdom and civilisational depth, required institutional strength to preserve its heritage and serve its people effectively in the modern world.

VHP was founded to bridge this gap—to create a permanent institution that could coordinate the efforts of saints, scholars, and citizens in service of dharma and society.

Philosophical Foundation

सेवा परमो धर्मः

Service is the highest dharma.

The fundamental nature of Vishwa Hindu Parishad is service. The entire service work is conducted by dedicated workers with minimal resources. Service activities extend throughout India.

As stated in our foundational principles: "The world's relationship is based on 'debt-bondage' (ऋणानुबन्ध). The way to be free from this debt-bondage is to serve everyone and desire nothing from anyone."

"The human body is not given for one's own pleasure and enjoyment, but for service, for giving happiness to others."

Scriptural Authority

Our work is grounded in the eternal wisdom of Sanatana Dharma, drawing from the Atharvaveda and other sacred texts that emphasize unity, service, and civilisational continuity.

History

Founding (1964)

Inception of VHP

On August 29, 1964, on the sacred day of Shri Krishna Janmashtami, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad was established with the blessings of India's saint power. This marked the beginning of a civilisational movement to organise and serve Hindu society.

The First Meeting of Convenors

The inaugural meeting of convenors took place on August 29, 1964, bringing together spiritual leaders, scholars, and social workers united in their commitment to Hindu society's welfare.

Presidential Endorsement

Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, then President of India and a distinguished philosopher, sent his blessings and message of support to the newly formed organisation.

Major Milestones

Historic World Hindu Conference (1966)

The first World Hindu Conference brought together Hindu leaders from across the globe, establishing VHP as a truly international organisation.

Silver Jubilee Celebration (1989)

Twenty-five years of dedicated service were commemorated, marking a quarter-century of institutional growth and civilisational work.

Golden Jubilee (2014-2015)

The Golden Jubilee year celebrated fifty years of VHP's existence, reflecting on achievements and charting the course for the next half-century of service.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Vishwa Hindu Parishad?

VHP is a civilisational, cultural, and social organisation established in 1964 to organise Hindu society, protect Hindu dharma, and serve humanity through principled action and dedicated service.

When was VHP founded?

VHP was founded on August 29, 1964, on the auspicious occasion of Shri Krishna Janmashtami, with the blessings of India's spiritual leadership.

What are VHP's main areas of work?

VHP works in four core areas: Service (health, education, self-empowerment), Cultural Preservation (Sanskrit, cow protection, dharmic values), Community Engagement (youth, women, families), and Global Presence (supporting Hindu communities worldwide).

How many service projects does VHP operate?

VHP operates more than 4,277 service projects across India in the areas of health, education, and self-empowerment.

Is VHP a political organisation?

No. VHP is a civilisational and cultural organisation focused on service, education, and cultural preservation. Our work is guided by dharmic principles, not political agendas.

How can I learn more or get involved?

Visit our Contact page for information on how to connect with your local VHP chapter.