The Navnat Centre, with its expansive 18-acre venue and ample parking, is a perfect spot for such a grand celebration. Although the weather forecast had predicted heavy rain for the day, it could not dampen the spirit of the event and its participants. The atmosphere was filled with excitement and pride, as people arrived in vibrant Indian ethnic wear. Women from various regions of India—Gujarat, Punjab, Tamilnadu, Assam, Bengal, and beyond, arrived in their traditional attire, heading to the stage for their cultural performances. It was a beautiful sight, as the tapestry of India’s rich cultural diversity was on display in the heart of London.
I reached the venue around 10 AM, and although the ground was wet and it was still drizzling, I could feel the visitors’ enthusiasm.
Navnat Centre is surrounded by a large British Indian community. It felt as though the entire neighborhood had come together to honour this day - a testament to the deep connection that many of us feel with our Motherland, no matter where we are in the world.
As I stood alongside Dr Nandakumaraji from Bhavan, we watched the flag hoisting ceremony with great anticipation. The High Commissioner of India to the UK, HE Vikram Doraiswami, was tasked with raising the tricolor. A momentary malfunction during the hoisting did not faze him; he remained composed, embodying the resilience and spirit that this day represents. I also noticed Shri Deepak Choudhary, the Minister (Coordination), alongside the High Commissioner, both full of energy as they visited each stall, meeting and greeting everyone with warmth and enthusiasm. It was heartening to see familiar faces, especially Ravi Sharma and other dignitaries, all of whom were graciously welcomed.
My connection with India House runs deep. I have had the honour of meeting several High Commissioners of India to the UK, starting from the day I first set my foot in this country on 19 November 1966. I landed at Heathrow Airport from Dar-es-Salaam. I first visited India House, a short walk from Lincoln Inn, where I registered as a local student and paid my fees for Bar-at-Law studies and the University of London for my LLB.
My journey in this new country began with a stop at an Italian cafe near Russell Square. I remember it well—the warmth of the place on a chilly November morning, the cup of tea and a cheese roll I ordered, which cost me 1 shilling and 9 pence, (less than 10p today). Later that day, I found myself at India House. Back then, it had a canteen on the lower ground floor, offering delicious Indian food at highly subsidised rates. It was a place where any one of Indian-origin or others could walk in without the security concerns of today. I remember my first meal there vividly—a large size vegetarian samosa, an Indian sweet, and a mug of tea (all for 2 shillings) —served with a warmth that made me feel at home in this new country. India House, with its welcoming atmosphere and the comfort of familiar food, became a sanctuary for me and many others like me.
That sense of belonging has never left me. Over the years, I’ve seen India House evolve, but its role as a beacon for Indians in the UK, remains unchanged and it continues to be a cornerstone of the Indian community in the UK.
As I left the Navnat Centre, on Saturday, I felt a deep sense of pride and nostalgia. The event was a touching reminder of the journey I have been on since 1966. It showed how, even with all the changes and challenges, our community's cultural events keep us connected to our roots and highlight the enduring spirit of India and its people, no matter where we are in the world.
(To be continued...)
