Ottawa: In recognition of the significant contribution made by the Hindu community to the development of this multi-ethnic nation, Canada has designated November as its National Hindu Heritage Month for the first time.

A private members' proposal to designate November as Hindu Heritage Month (HHM) was moved by Chandra Arya, a member of the ruling Liberal Party, in May this year. On 29 September the House of Commons unanimously approved the motion.

Arya announced on Twitter on November 1 that he had hoisted a flag with the Hindu sacred symbol Aum on Parliament Hill to mark the historic start of Canada's National Hindu Heritage Month. HHM provides an opportunity to acknowledge the contributions made by 830,000 Hindu Canadians to our country and by people of Hindu heritage to humanity.

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The multicultural nation also observes heritage months for other religions, such as Canadian Jewish Heritage Month in May, Sikh Heritage Month in April, and Canadian Islamic History Month in October.

Virasat Month aims to recognize and honor the significant contributions made by the country's large Hindu population in various fields, including law, politics, business, culture and sports.

Arya had previously referred to the passage of the resolution as "historic" and stated that Canada had finally recognized the contribution of the Hindu heritage to humanity and the nation.

Oakville MP and Minister of National Defense Anita Anand also congratulated the momentous start, tweeting: "This November is the first Hindu Heritage Month officially recognized by the federal government.

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More than 830,000 Hindus live in Canada, where they make a significant contribution to our country's culture and society. Happy Hindu Heritage Month, everyone!

Acknowledging the "outstanding contribution" of the Hindu community, Ahmed Hussain, Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion, in his statement said, "This is a moment to acknowledge...the positive impact of the community can be seen in all aspects. Our society .

It added, "Canadians of Hindu heritage are at the forefront of our continued growth and development." The government of the Canadian province of Ontario had earlier declared November as Hindu Heritage Month in accordance with Bill 56.

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About 830,000 people in Canada are Hindus, who first came to the country about 100 years ago.