‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ celebration was organised by the Indian High Commission and the diaspora on 21 August Sunday at the Navnat Centre in Hayes. Patriotism was at its peak as India’s Acting High Commissioner to London Sujit Ghosh hoisted the tricolour. After the National Anthem, everyone chanted- “Bharat Mata ki Jay”and “Vande Mataram”, as the venue converted to a mini-India with variety of programmes and free food stalls, offering a diverse range of culture and cuisines from different parts of India.
In his inaugural speech, Mr Ghosh said, “At the time of our independence, many of the international leaders were sceptical about our success as a democratic country but we Indians prove them wrong. Democracy has not only flourished in India, but it has been enriched too. Diversity, inclusiveness, ruralism and harmonic coexistence form the very core of our civilisational DNA.
“India is today the fastest growing economy in the world. India’s growth is also generating economic opportunities for the world at large. India is at the forefront in finding solutions for the challenges the world is facing at this moment. It is one of the leading centres of research and development, innovation, and creation. While celebrating 75 years of independence, the vision of the next 25 years will help us to realise the full potential of developed India.
“This year also marks 75 years of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and the UK. The Indian diaspora has played an important role in enriching British culture, society and politics. The accomplishments of the Indian diaspora in the economic, professional and educational domains are noteworthy and inspire us all. The Indian diaspora acts as a living bridge between their Karmabhumi and Matrubhumi.”
Bob Blackman, MP said, “As we look forward to the largest democracy in the world and the oldest democracy in the world signed a mutual cooperation agreement and by Diwali, we will have the heads of the free trade agreement between the United Kingdom and India. The European Union has been trying to do a trade deal with India for the last 25 years without success. India and the UK have a shared past and shared future, they are two great nations with a bright future. What a remarkable position it is that an Indian MP can be in the last two to become Prime minister of this country. Whoever is elected on the 5th of September as the leader of the Conservative party, will be a true friend of India.”
Virendra Sharma, MP said, “Indian diaspora has achieved everything in Britain. We brought here the values from our Sanatan Dharma. I am glad that the diaspora along with many other communities work together to bring peace and prosperity to all in the world. This is the most important message that Prime Minister Mr Modi is conveying to the world.
Film Actor and Member of Parliament from Gorakhpur (UP, India) Ravi Kishan, who was present, said, “I came here with the Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s message to you that love your tricolour flag, love India, love that soil, culture. Never forget our culture and Sanatan Dharm.”
Enthralling performances which represented various regions of India including Bhangra, Ghoomar, Bihu were enjoyed by the audience. The Kho Kho Federation of England demonstrated the traditional Indian sport Kho Kho. Traditional Karnataka Games attracted many to visit their stall too.
Heritage Bengal Global promoted UNESCO’s heritage tag for Durga Puja
Heritage Bengal Global (HBG), a not-for-profit organisation represented by Bengalis with roots in India, took part in this celebration, highlighting the UNESCO heritage tag of Bengal’s Durga Puja, besides showcasing the traditional handloom and legacy of sweets from the region.
Kantha stitch embroidery, the origin of which dates back to the early 20th century in unified Bengal was the theme for the HBG members to dress up in colourful attire for the occasion. The members and supporters put up a delectable and authentic Bengali sweet stall at the event and distributed some mouth-watering dishes.Yasmita Choudhury was credited with bhapa doi (baked yoghurt), Sharmi’s kitchen with rashomalai (rasmalai)and Meltz Sweets got some juicy pantua (gulab jamun), which were distributed free to the visitors.
As part of the celebration a photo-shoot contest was also held at the event, on a beautiful Durga themed photo frame created by HBG Vice President Mahua Bej, who also displayed a gorgeous alpona in front of the stall.The excitement of the crowd to click their photo with the frame, standing behind the alpona and in front of Goddess Durga’s painting that was installed at the stall, was palpable. The photography contest will be judged by the acclaimed Kolkata based photo-journalist Kounteya Sinha.
HBG director Anirban Mukhopadhyay said, “We are grateful to the Acting High Commissioner for his constant encouragement and support and without which we would possibly to be part of this event. We want to use every opportunity globally, to promote Durga Puja as a global tourism destination.”
