The Kshatriya Welfare Association of Canada (KWAC) recently premiered its first podcast titled “KWAC Conversations” as part of its comprehensive efforts to preserve Rajput heritage and build a supportive community for those of Rajput descent living in Canada.
The debut first podcast episode featured an insightful webinar discussion on Canadian immigration policies with law expert Abhishek Tanwar. Topics covered included citizenship processes, provincial nominations, study permits, and more. The hosts were prominent KWAC members Raju Singh Rathore and Shubh Rathore.
“We were thrilled to launch this new podcast as an impactful platform to reach and empower Rajput Canadians nationwide with useful information,” said Raju Singh Rathore. “Navigating Canada’s complex immigration system can be daunting, so our aim with this podcast is to foster open dialogue and provide guidance to newly arrived community members.”
Preserving Our Heritage
Since its founding in 2019, the KWAC has been devoted to promoting and preserving Rajput art, culture and traditions in Canada through events like Dussehra celebrations, Maharana Pratap Jayanti, and more that showcase the community’s rich cultural heritage in dance, cuisine, clothing and customs.
“With new generations growing up abroad, maintaining our heritage against the tides of assimilation is an ongoing endeavor,” said KWAC media member Shubha Rathore. “From language classes to red tika ceremonies, KWAC takes pride in creating spaces for Rajputs of all ages to explore their roots through immersive experiences.”
Building a Supportive Community
In addition, KWAC operates multiple programs assisting Rajput expats and immigrants transition successfully to life in Canada. Services include help with housing, employment, healthcare access, language barriers, continuing education, and loneliness for recent arrivals far from family and familiarity.
Seneca College student Kuldeep Shekhawat shared, “The KWAC has been invaluable in helping me get settled here as an international student. They assisted me with everything – from finding affordable housing and job contacts to walking me through transit, banking and more. It’s been incredibly reassuring having their guidance and friendship.”
Developing Future Leaders
KWAC also nurtures the potential of Rajput youth in Canada through academic scholarships, mentorships, university prep initiatives and career development workshops. “We strive to empower students and young professionals to embrace their strengths as the trailblazers and changemakers of tomorrow,” explained Treasurer Bharat Rathore.
Advocating for Our Community
As a voice for Canadians of Rajput descent, the organization interfaces with various government agencies and media outlets to increase multicultural awareness and ensure equitable representation of community interests across education, business, healthcare and more.
This new “KWAC Conversations” podcast represents the latest effort to support Rajputs living abroad through mentorship and strengthening communal bonds. Future episodes will tackle other topics important to Canadians with Rajasthani heritage.
