Looking to explore a new passion, connect with Indian cultural heritage, or simply stay active through art? Discover the elegance and depth of Bharatanatyam â a classical Indian dance form that combines rhythm, expression, and tradition. Starting this May, weekly Bharatanatyam dance classes will be held at the Grand Union Village Community Centre in Northolt, offering an enriching experience for both beginners and those with some prior training. Whether you're interested in mastering a new skill or reconnecting with your roots, these classes are the perfect way to embark on your dance journey.
Dates: Wednesday, 21 May & Wednesday, 28 May Time: Weekly sessions (please check Eventbrite for exact timings) Location: Grand Union Village Community Centre, 1st Floor, Weaver House, Higham Mews, Northolt UB5 6FP
These Bharatanatyam classes in Northolt are designed to be inclusive, welcoming complete beginners as well as dancers who have some experience with classical Indian dance. Each session is thoughtfully curated to cover essential techniques, including adavus (basic steps), mudras (hand gestures), and abhinaya (facial expressions), which are the building blocks of this traditional South Indian dance form.
Bharatanatyam is not just a dance â itâs a discipline that builds strength, flexibility, posture, and emotional expression. Itâs rooted in centuries of Indian history and is often considered a spiritual performance art, representing stories from ancient texts through graceful movements and intricate footwork.
Participating in Bharatanatyam classes can also benefit your mental wellbeing, help you relieve stress, and improve your confidence and stage presence. For children and adults alike, it is a meaningful way to stay active while developing cultural awareness and creative talent.
These classes are open to all â children, teens, and adults â who have a passion for dance or are simply curious to try something new. Whether youâve always admired Indian classical dance from afar or are seeking to polish your performance skills, this course offers the right balance of structure and creativity.
No prior experience in Bharatanatyam is necessary, making this an excellent opportunity for first-time dancers. Fairly trained dancers will also find value in refining their form and deepening their understanding of the art under expert guidance.
The Grand Union Village Community Centre, located at Higham Mews in Northolt, is easily accessible and provides a comfortable space for learning and creativity. Its welcoming atmosphere ensures that every student feels supported and inspired throughout their dance journey.
Due to high interest and limited capacity, advance booking is highly recommended. Secure your place now on Eventbrite and take your first step into the world of Bharatanatyam.
London is set to host an unforgettable night of spiritual depth and musical brilliance as the renowned Sufi qawwali ensemble Fanna-Fi-Allah brings their celebrated performance to Union Chapel on Friday, 27 June. Located at 19b Compton Terrace, the historic and acoustically rich venue in Islington will come alive with the passionate, poetic and soul-stirring sounds of qawwali â a centuries-old devotional music tradition rooted in the mystical practices of Sufism. This much-anticipated concert promises to be a transcendent cultural experience, fusing ancient rhythm, powerful vocals and heartfelt devotion in a way that deeply resonates with audiences from all walks of life.
Fanna-Fi-Allah, an ensemble revered across continents for their authentic interpretations of classical qawwali, continues to preserve and elevate this spiritual art form with integrity and passion. With decades of dedication and training under legendary qawwals in Pakistan and India, the group has become one of the most respected global ambassadors of Sufi music. Their performances are marked by an electrifying blend of tabla, harmonium, handclaps and rich vocal harmonies that build to ecstatic crescendos â transporting listeners into a meditative and emotional state known in the Sufi tradition as haal.
The ensembleâs name, Fanna-Fi-Allah, translates to âannihilation in the divine,â reflecting the central Sufi concept of dissolving the ego in union with the divine presence. This philosophy echoes through every note they sing, drawing from the works of revered Sufi poets such as Rumi, Bulleh Shah, Amir Khusrow and Kabir. The groupâs musical journey is not merely performance but devotion â a sacred offering intended to uplift and connect hearts across linguistic, cultural and spiritual boundaries.
Over the years, Fanna-Fi-Allah has performed at some of the worldâs leading world music festivals and venues, including in the United States, Europe, Australia, and South Asia. Their London appearance offers UK audiences a rare opportunity to witness the spiritual intensity and cultural richness of qawwali performed with deep respect for its origins. This performance at Union Chapel â a space renowned for its architectural beauty and spiritual ambiance â will only enhance the depth of the experience.
As interest in spiritual and world music continues to grow, events like this serve as a powerful reminder of the enduring relevance of sacred traditions. In a time when many seek moments of stillness, connection and meaning, the devotional energy of Fanna-Fi-Allahâs qawwali offers something more than entertainment â it offers healing, remembrance, and transcendence.
Tickets and event details are available at www.unionchapel.org.uk. Donât miss the opportunity to be part of this rare and powerful musical gathering â one that bridges centuries of Sufi tradition with the vibrancy of modern global audiences.
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East London is set to come alive with the sounds of tradition, rhythm and spiritual resonance as internationally acclaimed sarangi player Nabeel Khan and renowned tabla artist Junaid Ali take centre stage at Rich Mix on Sunday, 22 June 2025. The event, which will be held at the vibrant cultural venue located at 35-47 Bethnal Green Road, London E1 6LA, invites audiences to experience the enchantment and intricacy of Indian classical music in an unforgettable live performance.
Curated for music lovers, cultural enthusiasts and those seeking a deep connection with the Indian subcontinentâs artistic legacy, the evening promises a unique dialogue between melody and rhythm. Nabeel Khan and Junaid Ali will perform in jugalbandi (duet), weaving together their instrumentsâthe sarangi and tablaâinto an expressive conversation that transcends language and borders.
Nabeel Khan, hailing from the prestigious Moradabad gharana, is one of the few young musicians reviving the legacy of the sarangiâa rare bowed instrument once at the heart of Hindustani classical music. Known for its ability to mimic the human voice, the sarangi demands years of rigorous practice, and Nabeelâs emotive playing style has earned him global acclaim, from prestigious festivals in India to international concerts in Europe and the Middle East.
Junaid Ali, meanwhile, is celebrated for his dexterous command over the tabla, a twin-drum percussion instrument that underpins the rhythmic framework of Indian classical compositions. With roots in traditional training and a flair for contemporary experimentation, Junaidâs playing is marked by precision, sensitivity and creativityâqualities that make him a sought-after accompanist and soloist in the global music scene.
Together, Khan and Ali offer more than just performanceâthey offer an experience: one steeped in rich history, meditative depth, and the improvisational brilliance that defines classical Indian music. This event is part of Rich Mixâs ongoing effort to highlight cross-cultural art forms and support world-class talent from the global South Asian diaspora.
Located in the heart of Shoreditch, Rich Mix has become a hub for innovation, inclusion and artistic diversity. Hosting everything from spoken word and visual arts to jazz, cinema and classical performances, the venue provides a platform for communities to come together through the universal language of creativity. The 22 June concert continues its legacy of showcasing meaningful, thought-provoking experiences that reflect Londonâs multicultural spirit.
This performance is expected to draw a diverse and enthusiastic crowd, so early booking is recommended. Whether you're a connoisseur of classical music or a newcomer eager to discover its magic, this is your chance to witness two master musicians breathe new life into ancient sounds.
Join Nabeel Khan and Junaid Ali for a night of musical mastery and cultural connectionâwhere every note tells a story, and every rhythm pulses with the soul of India.
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Join Jasbinder at Barnes Childrenâs Literature Festival
Readers and families in London are in for a culturally rich, story-filled experience as Jasbinder Bilan, one of the UKâs most acclaimed childrenâs authors, headlines an exciting event at the Barnes Childrenâs Literature Festival. Taking place on Saturday, 21 June at the Barnes Green Centre on Church Road, London SW13 9HE, the event will offer young audiences the exclusive opportunity to meet the Costa Childrenâs Book Award winner and hear about her latest novel, Naeli and the Secret Song. Known for blending adventure, history, and folklore into captivating tales for young readers, Bilanâs newest book promises to enchant and empower children with themes of identity, bravery, and the magic of self-discovery.
Organised as part of the UKâs largest dedicated childrenâs literature festival, the interactive session will be tailored for children and families, giving them the chance to connect directly with the author. Jasbinder will introduce Naeli and the Secret Song, a beautifully written historical adventure set against a richly imagined landscape, infused with cultural heritage, ancient songs, and mysterious secrets. Young readers will not only get to hear excerpts from the book but also take part in a vibrant Q&A and creative activities designed to ignite their imaginations and deepen their love of storytelling.
Bilan, who first gained national recognition with her bestselling debut Asha & the Spirit Bird, continues to draw on her Himalayan roots to craft stories that reflect diverse voices and underrepresented narratives. Naeli and the Secret Song continues this tradition, following a courageous young girl who must unlock the secrets of her ancestry while navigating a journey of self-belief and resilience. Her work has been praised for its lyrical prose, emotional depth, and authentic representation of South Asian heritage â qualities that have resonated with readers, educators, and literary critics across the UK.
This event is ideal for parents, teachers, and young readers looking to experience literature that reflects multicultural Britain and introduces children to worlds that are both fantastical and emotionally real. Itâs also a fantastic opportunity for budding writers and readers to learn about the writing process, character development, and the role of cultural identity in fiction.
The Barnes Childrenâs Literature Festival continues to be a major highlight of the capitalâs cultural calendar, championing creativity, learning, and inclusivity through books. The festival has become known not only for its star-studded line-up of authors and illustrators but also for its dedication to nurturing a lifelong love of reading among children of all backgrounds.
Tickets for Jasbinder Bilanâs event and the full festival programme can be booked via Eventbrite. Early reservation is recommended due to high demand and limited seating.
Donât miss this magical afternoon of stories, imagination, and inspiration with one of Britainâs most powerful literary voices in childrenâs fiction. Whether you're a fan of her previous novels or discovering her work for the first time, this is an unmissable event that promises to be as meaningful as it is memorable.
Hounslow is all set to come alive with colour, culture and celebration as the Hounslow Desi Mela 2025 returns for another spectacular year. Taking place on Saturday, 21 June at Cranford Community College, High Street, Hounslow TW5 9PD, this much-loved community festival offers a full day of cultural richness, showcasing the vibrancy of South Asian heritage through music, dance, food, fashion, and fun for all ages. A beloved fixture in Londonâs multicultural calendar, the mela is expected to draw thousands of visitors and promises an unforgettable day of unity, diversity and joy.
The Hounslow Desi Mela is more than just a summer eventâit is a heartfelt tribute to the shared traditions of the Indian subcontinent, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds in a celebration of identity and belonging. This yearâs programme is bigger and more dynamic than ever, with live stage performances by celebrated musicians, high-energy dance acts, and interactive cultural showcases that reflect the evolving yet timeless nature of desi culture. From classical Kathak and Bharatanatyam to energetic bhangra and Bollywood fusion, the performances will appeal to audiences of all generations.
A key highlight of the mela is its global food court, offering an aromatic journey through South Asiaâs legendary cuisines. Festivalgoers can savour authentic street food from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lankaâranging from spicy chaats and tandoori treats to vegan delights and traditional desserts like kulfi and laddoo. With both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, thereâs something for every palate.
Adding a modern twist, the mela also includes a live DJ zone, where popular desi DJs will spin everything from Punjabi beats and Bollywood remixes to chart-topping global dance tracks. For those wanting to capture memories, themed photo booths and social media zones will offer the perfect backdrop for selfies and group photos.
Beyond the entertainment, the Hounslow Desi Mela is a platform for community engagement and cultural education. Local organisations and cultural groups will host stalls to raise awareness of heritage, traditions and social initiatives. The event reflects the boroughâs commitment to inclusion and multiculturalism, giving residents a chance to connect with their rootsâor discover new ones.
Entry is free for children under a certain age, with affordable tickets available online. Early booking is advised due to the eventâs growing popularity in recent years.
Join the festivities and experience a truly immersive day filled with flavour, rhythm, laughter and community spirit. The Hounslow Desi Mela 2025 is not just an eventâitâs a celebration of who we are, where we come from, and how far weâve come together.
Music lovers and Bollywood fans are in for a melodious treat as renowned playback singer Abhijeet Bhattacharya gears up for an unforgettable live concert in Reading. The much-anticipated event will take place on Saturday, June 21 at The Hexagon, located on Queens Walk, RG1 7QF. Audiences can expect an evening brimming with nostalgia and emotion as the celebrated singer performs a collection of his greatest hits and timeless classics.
Abhijeet Bhattacharya, whose golden voice has been the soul behind countless Bollywood chart-toppers since the 1990s, is one of the most distinctive and beloved voices in Indian cinema. With a career spanning over three decades, he has lent his vocals to megastars such as Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan and Akshay Kumar, leaving an indelible mark on the soundscape of Hindi film music. From romantic ballads like Main Koi Aisa Geet Gaoon to the energetic Ole Ole, his songs have become anthems for generations of fans.
This upcoming concert at The Hexagon promises not only a spectacular musical journey but also an emotional connection for those who grew up with Abhijeet's melodies. His charismatic stage presence and vocal finesse are sure to mesmerise both long-time admirers and new audiences alike. Attendees will be treated to a live showcase of his iconic hits, each bringing back cherished memories of Bollywood's golden years.
Organised as part of a cultural celebration in Reading, the event highlights the vibrant South Asian music scene in the UK and offers an opportunity for fans to enjoy the magic of live music in an intimate and dynamic venue.
Whether you're a die-hard Bollywood aficionado or simply looking for a unique night out filled with soulful entertainment, Abhijeet Bhattacharya Live in Concert is an experience not to be missed.