Category: London Diary

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London Diary London News UK News

Parveen Rani elected as Dy Mayor of Hertsmere, appoints son Tushar Kumar as Escort

Cllr rani with Cllr tushar

Cllr Rani is set to write history. Appointing her son as her ESCORT and not her spouse, Parveen Rani has defied stereotype writes Rahul Laud   

In a historical move newly elected Labour Cllr Parveen  Rani who has been elected as DEPUTY Mayor of Hertsmere has appointed her young son  Cllr Tushar Kumar as her official Escort. A history of sorts has been created with Tushar’s appointment as he becomes the youngest Escort plus his appointment breaks the stereotype of the spouse becoming an Escort.  It was a momentous occasion for the Hertsmere Borough, as Parveen Rani got elected as the new Deputy Mayor, marking a significant milestone in her distinguished career as a politician.

Deputy Mayor elected Cllr Parveen Rani

Parveen Rani, known for her extensive contributions to education and social welfare, has been a dedicated councillor for Hertsmere Borough Council and has held the cabinet member position for Streetscene, Parks, Leisure, and Culture. The Deputy Mayor is Councillor Parveen Rani, who represents Borehamwood Kenilworth. Cllr Rani transitions into this role directly from her position in Hertsmere’s cabinet, bringing her own extensive experience to the team.

Upon her election, Parveen expressed her gratitude and commitment to serving the community of Hertsmere. “I am deeply honoured to take on this role and work alongside Mayor Richard Butler, whose leadership and vision I greatly admire,” said Parveen. “Together, we will continue to strive for a vibrant and inclusive community. Over the past year, I have had the privilege of witnessing the incredible work of various organisations within Hertsmere. Their dedication and impact have inspired me, and I look forward to supporting such organisations to further our shared goals.”

Mayor Richard Butler and his consort, Donna Butler are seen with Parveen Rani and Tushar Kumar

Accompanying Parveen Rani is her son, Tushar Kumar, who at the young age of 21 is making history as Hertsmere’s youngest escort. This historic moment underscores the family’s deep-rooted commitment to public service and community engagement.As Parveen Rani steps into her new role, the community eagerly anticipates the positive changes and initiatives she will bring to Hertsmere. Her election, along with Tushar Kumar’s historic appointment, marks a new chapter in the borough’s journey towards success and a bright future.

ALSO READ: Polls point to ‘electoral extinction’ for Tories

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Events London Diary London News

Stage set in London to host Khushwant Singh LITFEST slated on June 1

The Khushwant Singh Literary Festival returns to London. Regarded as a labour of love. The KSLF theme, “Heal the World,” aims to promote the legacy of Khushwant Singh. The KSLF will be held in London and for the first time at Cambridge soon. Rahul Laud finds out more.

 The sixth edition of Khushwant Singh Literary Festival  London 2024 (6th edition) will be held at the Brunei Gallery Lecture Theatre at SOAS, University of London on Sun, 2 June 2024 between 11:00 – 18:30 BST followed at Cambridge on June 5, 2024 | 14:30-17:30 BST | at the Yusuf Hamied Theatre, Christ’s College.

Coherent with the theme of Heal the World – music on the 1st of June evening will be performed by PROJECT AGORA & THE JAWARI COLLECTIVE. Renowned Armenian flautist Tamar Eskinian, sitarist Tommy Khosla, and collective JAWARI.  PROJECT AGORA with a flute and sitar will celebrate their debut LP, ROAD RASA. With Lagnajita Mukhopadhyay’s lyrical poetry.

Speakers at the KSLF include Akshat Rathi, Ayesha Manazir Siddiqi, Corinne Fowler, Fakir Aijazuddin, Harinder Singh, Imtiaz Dharker, Keshava Guha, Louise Tillin, Lynne Jones, Marina Wheeler, Shirin Wheeler, Moin Mir, Nadia Kabir Barb, Noreen Masud, Paul Waters, Pinky Lilani, Rachel Dwyer, Robert Seatter, SY Quraishi, Lord Simon McDonald, Som Batabyal, Subhadra Das and Tahmima Anam among others.

The two and a half days are free! This includes 15 sessions of discussions on books that matter and an evening of music, says Niloufer Billimoria from the organising team.

Speakers at the KSLF will echo the timeless calls for balance, harmony, and coexistence, reminding us of our inherent connection to each other and the Earth. They will challenge conventional ideas and shed light on the fatal flaws that have shaped our perspectives. Throughout the festival, through diverse sessions, the festival will traverse between history, spirituality, art, heritage, ecology, poetry, music, family, partition, the state of the world, and social consciousness.

Billmoria assures that eminent authors will present insights from visionary leaders, entrepreneurs, and individuals of substance, who will share their insights on the myriad choices that define our lives.

Rahul Singh an eminent author, journalist, writer, columnist – son of eminent editor, author and columnist Khushwant Singh points out that in these challenging times of conflict and turmoil, “our mission to promote healing and unity through literature is more important than ever. The theme for the KSLF London festival, “Heal the World,” aims to inspire positive change, bring about an understanding of empathy and create a meaningful community.”

Kushwant Singh and Rahul Singh – Father son duo

 The organisers aim to deliberate into profound narratives and thought-provoking discussions that resonate with the very essence of our shared humanity and our collective responsibility towards our planet.

Elaborating on the background of the festival Singh said the idea behind the festival was to promote Khushwant Singh’s legacy by discussing the values he stood for and addressing his concerns, including closer ties between India and Pakistan; equal opportunities for the girl-child and women; and disseminating the values of democracy, tolerance, compassion in a world that is increasingly more polarised. Thus after six years at Kasauli, it travelled to London at a pop-up event in 2018.

 For more information: https://linktr.ee/kslitfestlondon

KSLF London:  crowdfunding link https://kslitfestlondon.com/crowdfunding

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Health London Diary London News

Pure Periodontics: Trusted Destination For Top-Tier Periodontal Care In London

Dr. Neesha Patel, the esteemed Clinical Director at Pure Periodontics, stands as a distinguished figure in the realm of periodontal care in London. Widely acclaimed as one of the city’s premier specialists in periodontal disease, she has garnered recognition for her exceptional skills and commitment to advancing oral health. With Specialist status in Periodontics conferred by the General Dental Council, Dr. Patel has solidified her reputation as a leader in the field. A feature by columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International.

This esteemed recognition underscores her comprehensive knowledge and expertise in preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases affecting the supporting structures of the teeth.

Dr Neesha Patel previously served as a Consultant Periodontist at King’s College Hospital, where she played a pivotal role in educating and mentoring emerging professionals in the dental field.

Dr Neesha Patel

Dr. Patel’s journey is punctuated by a series of accolades, with numerous awards in restorative dentistry and oral surgery adorning her illustrious career. These accolades are a testament to her unwavering commitment to excellence and her continuous pursuit of advancing dental practices.

As the Clinical Director at Pure Periodontics, Dr. Neesha Patel leads with a vision for personalised, patient-centric care. Her clinic is renowned for its commitment to excellence, innovative practices, and a compassionate approach to periodontal health. Under her guidance, Pure Periodontics has become a beacon of comprehensive, cutting-edge care, setting the standard for periodontal services in London.

Dr. Patel’s expertise extends beyond the clinic. Her dedication to patient education empowers individuals to take an active role in their oral health, emphasising preventive measures and long-term strategies for overall well-being. Dr. Neesha Patel’s influence in periodontal care not only reflects her present standing as a leader in the field but also anticipates a future where optimal oral health is achievable for all.

Pure Periodontics, situated in the heart of the City of London, stands as a beacon of excellence in periodontal care. As a specialist practice, the clinic prides itself on its patient-centric approach, ensuring exceptional outcomes and a focus on long-term oral health. Led by a team of experienced and dynamic professionals, Pure Periodontics goes beyond traditional gum-focused treatments.

Embracing a holistic approach, the well equipped clinic addresses the prevention and treatment of oral periodontal disease. This comprehensive strategy equips patients with the tools and techniques necessary to maintain optimal oral hygiene and uphold the results of their treatments over the long term.

Collaboration is a cornerstone of Pure Periodontics’ philosophy. The clinic
works closely with referring practices, considering itself an extension of
their teams. This collaborative ethos ensures seamless and integrated care for patients, reinforcing the clinic’s commitment to excellence.

The expert team at Pure Periodontics maintains an unwavering dedication to clinical standards. Constantly striving to remain at the forefront of
emerging evidence and technical advancements, the clinic ensures that
patients receive the most innovative and effective treatments available.

One of the distinguishing features of Pure Periodontics is the diversity in clinical backgrounds within the team. This diversity allows for a multi-faceted approach to patient care, drawing on the varied expertise of each
discipline to achieve the best possible outcomes.

Furthermore, the majority of the team members at every level are educators in their own right, conducting courses in their respective areas
of expertise. This commitment to education not only reflects the team’s passion for continuous learning but also provides patients with the
assurance that they are in the hands of professionals who are leaders in their field.

Pure Periodontics embodies a commitment to excellence, collaboration, and ongoing education, making it a trusted destination for top-tier periodontal care in the City of London. Great and supportive staff, comfortable environment and set up, easy access to transport links, seamless appointment booking processes, great care; all in all- Highly Recommended!

ALSO READ: Investing in India’s Health and Wellness Sector for High Returns

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Events London Diary London News

Pujya Gurudevshri Rakeshji to visit UK in June

In June 2024, the United Kingdom will be graced by the presence of Pujya Gurudevshri Rakeshji, an Enlightened Master, spiritual visionary and globally recognised humanitarian.

Pujya Gurudevshri Rakeshji’s visit to the UK is highly anticipated by spiritual seekers, who look forward to experiencing His profound discourses.  His words of wisdom guide individuals to recharge and reprogramme their lives for a joyful existence. His ability to connect on a deep, spiritual level resonates with people from diverse cultures and ages, inspiring them to embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth.  Don’t miss this precious opportunity for spiritual nourishment and inner awakening!

Pujya Gurudevshri’s Discourse in Leicester:

Venue: Athena Events Venue, Queen St, Leicester LE1 1QD

Date and Time: Tuesday 18th June 2024 (8pm – 10pm)

Dining Arrangements: Dinner will be provided before the programme

Free admission, register now at events.srmd.org/leicester

Pujya Gurudevshri’s Discourses in London:

Venue: Byron Hall, Harrow Leisure Centre, Christchurch Ave, Harrow HA3 5BD

Dates & Timings: Thursday 20th June 2024 – Saturday 22nd June (8pm – 10pm) and Sunday 23rd June 2024 (10:30am – 12pm)

Dining Arrangements: Dinner will be provided on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings before the programme, with lunch following the Sunday session

Free admission, register now at london.srmd.org/20years

Pujya Gurudevshri’s visit to London marks a significant milestone of 20 years since His first Dharmayatra tour to the UK, highlighting two decades of profound spiritual impact and global humanitarian upliftment. Due to popular demand, the sessions will take place at Byron Hall, Harrow Leisure Centre, accommodating over 2,000 seekers.

Highlights of Pujya Gurudevshri’s London visit include:

  • Celebrations to commemorate 20 years since Pujya Gurudevshri’s first UK Dharmayatra tour on the evening of Saturday 22nd June will provide a precious opportunity for attendees to reflect on His profound spiritual impact in the UK over the years.
  • Atmarpit Diksha Ceremony (Renunciation): For the first time on UK soil, a blessed soul takes a leap towards a Divine Union
  • Bhakti, cultural dedications and guided meditation
  • An immersive exhibition showcasing the global initiatives of Shrimad Rajchandra Mission Dharampur.

Pujya Gurudevshri Rakeshji’s presence in the UK will serve as an invaluable opportunity for spiritual and cultural enrichment for the local diaspora.

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Lite Blogs London Diary London News

An Iconic Venue for a Countryside Dream Wedding: Stapleford Park Hotel, Leicestershire

Stapleford Park country house hotel sits in the heart of England near Melton Mowbray, in Leicestershire, within the East Midlands. Understated luxury at one of the greatest English country estates, makes it the perfect venue for a wedding adventure to begin. A feature by lifestyle columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International.

Stapleford Park is an enchanting hotel situated in the heart of rural Leicestershire. Nestled amidst 500 acres of lush greenery and furnished with romantic florals, it is the perfect location for weddings, engagements and other memorable celebrations. Whether you are looking for a traditional wedding breakfast or a civil ceremony, Stapleford Park will make your wedding dreams come true.

Whether you’re looking for an intimate wedding for 8, or a decadent party for 180, their beautifully appointed private rooms & Grand Hall were built for this very reason – to entertain and in style. At the end of the celebrations, wedding guests can retire to their individually designed bedroom. Stapleford Park has all of the ingredients for hosting the perfect wedding festivities. A total of 48 rooms boast an array of elegant suites with beautiful decor. With original features and unique design, there is a perfect space for everyone at Stapleford Park. There are even pet-friendly rooms, so your guests’ with  four-legged friends can also celebrate with you.

Their Head Chef and his experienced team serve only the finest ingredients with a decadent and bespoke personally tailored to your occasion. Stapleford Park’s award-winning in-house catering team take inspiration from locally sourced ingredients, producing decadent and delish creations for you and your guests to savour. However, should the couple wish they can even bring in their preferred caterer. 

On the wedding day the guests can curve through the gated entrance, taking in the late 17th century house with its bays and eaves blended with the Tudor old wing, the bride can descend gracefully down the grand main staircase, suffused with light from the glass dome above. The blessing can be conducted in an exquisitely sheltered church on the estate, just a short walk from the main house. With the elegant grandeur of the Main House and the tranquil landscaped gardens providing the perfect backdrop, any wedding at Stapleford Park is truly iconic.

Now coming to the practical arrangements; the dedicated and passionate events team at Stapleford Park have a wealth of experience, and will be on hand at all times before and on your bid day, so you can relax and enjoy your special celebrations in the trust and knowledge that you are in safe and expert hands .

And if you are looking to calm those pre-wedding nerves or unwind after the celebrations and hosting, you can spend a few hours chilling in their luxury spa and wellness centre. With a huge range of treatments and packages to choose from, it will really add the icing to your wedding treats.

With a range of options available, discerning couples and families can choose a tailor-made wedding package that feels right for them and make Stapleford Park the perfect venue for your wedding celebrations to remember.

With a touch of British antiquity in every space, precious memories of esteemed  royalty including King George VI and Edward VIII, emanate through the sprawling, timeless estate. The impressive gardens maintain their magnificence, creating a stunning backdrop for wedding photography with its arched hedges, whimsical walkways and perfectly manicured lawns.

Eloic Montagnier, General Manager at Stapleford Park, said: “In collaboration with the couple getting married our talented and award-winning team thoughtfully design a wedding celebration that uniquely reflects their character, commitment and shared values.

 The beautifully appointed private rooms and Grand Hall at Stapleford Park were built to entertain. The options include an intimate civil ceremony in our lovely Morning and Gilt Room overlooking the tranquil parkland, a blessing in the 18th century Church on the estate or an exclusive hire of the country house for a decadent party of up to 180 guests.”

GM added, “Each wedding is a truly grandeur experience for all with impressive elements such as the gated entrance on arrival, the 17th century architecture blended with the Tudor old wing, the elegant staircase and the stunning 500 acres of Capability Brown landscape. Our Head Chef and his brigade serve a tailored and decadent menu using the finest ingredients but couples can also opt for a preferred catering arrangement if more suited. At the end of the celebrations, guests can retire to their bedroom; each one individual in style and designed by iconic British names including Mulberry, Nina Campbell, and Wedgewood. A wedding at Stapleford Park is truly iconic.”

A top location for weddings Stapleford Park is voted as one of the top 50 wedding venues in the UK and is renowned for being one of the top-most romantic wedding locations in England. The location is idyllic for a country house wedding in a peaceful environment and tranquil atmosphere. The great thing about this location is that you can acquire all the help you need from wedding event coordinators to pampering sessions with spa therapists, this makes the organising process a lot calmer and less frantic. Highly Recommended!

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London Diary London News UK News

Saree walkathon in London on National Handloom Day

The proceeds from the event were given to a community of weavers in Nanoor, West Bengal…reports Asian Lite News

Around 500 women are set to participate in a first-of-its-kind saree walkathon, which will be held in London to mark National Handloom Day on August 7, and raise awareness about Indian handloom.

The women, wearing the drapes representing different states of India, will walk past the iconic and historical landmarks on August 6, London-based news website UK Malayalees reported.

The walkathon will begin from Trafalgar Square and move to the historic Parliament Square in Westminster, London, via 10 Downing Street.

The event is organised by the British Women In Sarees group and is supported by the Inspiring Indian Women group.

“The modern Indian woman of today believes in traversing the world beyond her cocoon and she does all that and more, in a saree while redefining the codes of power dressing,” Dipti Jain of British Women in Sarees group, which is hosting the event, told ukmalayalees.com.

“The British Women in Sarees group was formed out of this idea. It is a group of empowered women who take pride in flaunting handloom sarees and representing the unique cultural melting pot that is India. It is a not-for-profit organisation which likes to organise events to promote our National Heritage and make everyone around the world aware of the toil, handwork and artistry which goes behind weaving each of these masterpieces,” Jain told the website.

She had also organised the very first event at the Ladies Day Royal Ascot Races on June 16, 2022 in Berkshire, where several women from the Indian subcontinent turned up in sarees.

“As residents of UK, we felt elated and proud of the inclusivity that the stage provided us to pay homage to our roots, India. The world watched us but the limelight that our sarees fetched provided us the platform to raise awareness about the plight of artisans and weavers who need support to continue and pass on their craft to the next generation,” Jain said.

The proceeds from the event were given to a community of weavers in Nanoor, West Bengal.

“As we grow bigger, we intend to reach out, grow and connect with more artisans and weavers who need support. This will be our way of preserving ancient handicrafts,” she told UKMalayalees.

At the upcoming walkathon, a team of 30 women from Kerala will be showcasing the traditional settu mundu and handloom sarees bought directly from the weavers to support them.

They will also do a traditional Kerala dance at the Parliament Square before finishing off with a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi.

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Arts & Culture Lite Blogs London Diary

India at the London design forum

The Indian pavilion uses the visual metaphor of a charpai, a traditional woven daybed found all over India, to evoke the essence of a modern Indian city chowk-an outdoor market at the intersection of streets. The charpai’s weave serves as a metaphor for Indian craftsmanship and is a timeless fashion icon…reports Asian Lite News

The Netherlands’ national museum and institute for architecture, design, and digital culture, the Nieuwe Instituut, will serve as the creative director of the fourth London Design Biennale, which will run from June 1 to June 25, 2023.

Participants from all over the world will be asked to envision and put into action new forms of international collaboration and participation-including with each other-through the use of design. The event will take over the entirety of Somerset House, including the Edmond J. Safra Fountain Court and River Terrace.

The India Pavilion at the London Design Biennale 2023 will be designed by The Design Village (TDV) and Studio Archohm. ‘The Global Game: Remapping Collaborations’ will be the focus of the fourth iteration. Chowk & Charpai: An Urban Living Room, a multi-sensory evocation of the essence of a modern Indian metropolis curated by The Design Village and created by Studio Archohm.

Speaking about the opportunity Mridu Sahai, co-founder at The Design Village expressed: “We are delighted to represent India at this global design forum amongst 40 other countries and organisations. Somerset House is such an august cultural destination; we are excited to showcase the essence of contemporary India.” The exhibition not only highlights the vital role of design in addressing challenges and providing solutions but encourages international collaboration and forges future partnerships.

The Indian pavilion uses the visual metaphor of a charpai, a traditional woven daybed found all over India, to evoke the essence of a modern Indian city chowk-an outdoor market at the intersection of streets. The charpai’s weave serves as a metaphor for Indian craftsmanship and is a timeless fashion icon.

As Somerset House soaks up the British sun, the pavilion will act as a sizable urban charpai sculpture that softly shades the building. The charpai’s weave creates a play of light and shadow to create a chowk, or public square, where random encounters occur. The oversized web of the charpai symbolises India, a country with a modern perspective and deep cultural roots.

Through the elements of touch, sound, sight, smell, and taste, the chowk will represent Indian urbanity which adjusts and adapts through dense landscapes. The chowk is an epitome of resilience, endurance, and resurrection: juxtapositions that speak of democracy and autonomy, ego and humility, hope and pride, rapture, and rejuvenation – this plural paradox is its true eloquence.

The London Design Biennale, which was founded in 2016 by Sir John Sorrell CBE and Ben Evans CBE, encourages international cooperation and the significance of design around the world. Since its beginning, the Biennale has welcomed the most thrilling and ambitious artists, designers, and cultural organisations to the city.

ALSO READ-Nature, life reflect in Alam’s art in Biennale

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Lite Blogs London Diary UK News

Int’l Dogra Society celebrates Lohri in London, Jammu style!

Mr Virendera Sharma, Member of Parliament, Ealing & Southall graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and addressed the gathering talking about beautiful Jammu & Kashmir and the importance of keeping our culture alive specially abroad…reports Asian Lite News

International Dogra Society (IDS) hosted J&K winter harvest festival Lohri in London on 14th January (first event post Covid). The function showcased Jammu & Dogra traditions to the fullest including bonfire, tricholi, chajja’s, Dogri lohri songs as well as Lohri haar (necklace for new born & newly wedded couples). 

During the function a thoughtful musical tribute was given to Padamshri Padma Sachdev ji (Bobboji). Lalit Sharma, Founder & Director International Dogra Society spoke about late Padma Sachdev ji’s crucial contribution towards promoting Dogri language & culture, and for bringing Dogri as a language on the world map.

Lalit fondly mentioned the story how Padma Sachdev ji requested Lata Mangeshkar ji to sing her Dogri songs and made them eternal. Poonam Bhandari from Norwich, UK beautifully sang the famous Lori (lullaby) “Tu malla tu, log pannan thikariyan” written by Padma ji and sung by Lataji. 

Mr Virendera Sharma, Member of Parliament, Ealing & Southall graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and addressed the gathering talking about beautiful Jammu & Kashmir and the importance of keeping our culture alive specially abroad. He also lauded the excellent effort by the team of International Dogra Society in showcasing the unique cultural heritage of Jammu. 

The function like always was supported & attended by our Kashmiri Pandit brethren in large numbers along with Dogra’s living in the UK countrywide who travelled to London specially for the event, plus the Indian diaspora in London. 

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Lite Blogs London Diary

Manchester Museum exploring the tie between South Asia and Britain’s legacy

The first permanent gallery in the UK dedicated to South Asian diaspora.(photo:IANSLIFE)

A series of events, performance and public programme will launch, with a dedicated performance space at the centre of the gallery, which will be shaped by ideas and contributions from the Collective and programmed in collaboration with both local and international artists and performers…reports Asian Lite News

Following a significant capital redevelopment, the University of Manchester’s Manchester Museum will reopen to the public on February 18, 2023. This new multilingual gallery will explore the relationship between South Asia and Britain’s legacy of Empire and offer new perspectives on British Asian and South Asian culture and creativity.

The South Asia Gallery Collective, a group of 30 remarkable people that includes community leaders, educators, artists, historians, journalists, and musicians, has co-curated the gallery in a unique way. The exhibition will present a variety of human stories that provide visitors a window into South Asia by showcasing over 140 antique artefacts from the collections of the Manchester Museum and British Museum, coupled with new modern commissions and personal objects contributed by the Collective. Through the use of six main themes-Past & Present, Lived Environments, Innovation & Language, Sound, Music & Dance, British Asian, and Movement & Empire-the gallery’s story-led design will represent various voices

In Past & Present, the general public will examine the historic Indus Valley Civilization through a modern lens and share perspectives that go beyond those of archaeologists. It will also highlight influential female figures from the Mughal Empire, like Nur Jahan, to encourage discussion about the place of women in history. Through the relationship between Manchester’s cotton industry and the Indian independence movement, it will demonstrate the significance of Gandhi’s 1931 visit to the Lancashire cotton mill town of Darwen.

Lived Environments will use objects including postcards from tea estates, 18th-century tea tokens, an opium pipe, and a movie on floating gardens in Bangladesh to highlight the value of conservation in South Asian culture and the environmental effects of the British Empire.

Innovation & Language will examine South Asian innovation through the work of three legendary figures who are frequently disregarded, including Satyendra Nath Bose, one of the key figures in the development of contemporary quantum science. Fal Sarker, a member of the collective and the grandson of Bose, will discuss Bose’s influence on the scientific community and the correspondence he had with Albert Einstein as “a labour of love to my famous ancestry and his impact on quantum physics.”

Another anthology, Sound, Music & Dance, will feature various forms of musical expression from ancient instruments such as the hakgediya, a Sri-Lankan conch shell, to the secret South Asian Daytimers raves of the 80s and 90s. A listening station will play work by Aziz Ibrahim, a musician in the Collective, recognised for playing with the Stone Roses and Simply Red, as well as developing South Asian blues which mixes English and Punjabi, whose album describes a family journey from Lahore to Manchester.

British Asian explores identity through a range of expressions from pop music to art, and celebrating stories not usually represented by mainstream British Asian culture including women and queer communities. A powerful contemporary painting by female painter Azraa Motala, will explore what it means to be British Asian today, whilst Taslima Ahmad, a Collective member will discuss garment manufacture and South Asian working lives in Manchester.

Finally Movement & Empire will look at South Asian identity in relation to voluntary and involuntary migration, including as a result of war and the trauma of Partition, which was one of the largest migrations in human history. An NHS display will celebrate the importance of the South Asian community to UK medicine, from the 1950s movement of medics to the UK to the significant contribution of the community during the Covid pandemic.

New commissions will populate the space, celebrating contemporary South Asian creativity and innovation, including a rickshaw imported from Bangladesh and decorated by communities in Manchester and a 17 metre long newly commissioned mural from British artists, The Singh Twins, illustrating an emotional map of South Asian diaspora experience.

A series of events, performance and public programme will launch, with a dedicated performance space at the centre of the gallery, which will be shaped by ideas and contributions from the Collective and programmed in collaboration with both local and international artists and performers.

Nusrat Ahmed, South Asia Gallery Curator at Manchester Museum, says: “As a first-generation British-born South Asian person, it is really exciting to be part of such a groundbreaking project. The co-curated South Asia Gallery envisages a collaborative, iterative space that will generate new perspectives and connections. We hope to engage further diaspora communities on its opening and support its continual evolution. This personalised approach humanises the gallery, telling stories about real people and their objects.”

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London Diary London News

GALLERY: MAYOR VISITS UEL

London Mayor Sadi Khan visits University off East London. After the visit, he tweeted: Young Londoners are the future of our city – and we need young people with the skills that will help to drive London’s economic future. Great to see the fantastic new facilities for students at UEL’s School of Business and Law.

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