Over 150 people attended the inaugural “Best of India” cultural ball at Porchester Hall, London. 

The Platform for Indian Democracy, an organisation that is uniting the British Indian community hosted the ball to celebrate the rich cultural heritage and artistic contributions of the British Indian community.   

The evening showcased diverse performances, featuring the iconic Apache Indian, who brought his signature fusion of Urban Asian and Reggae music. Attendees enjoyed the traditional Indian classical dance, including Akademi’s Kathak performers and the elegant Bharatanatyam of Hiten Mistry. 

The event also included a three-course buffet featuring an array of authentic dishes from all parts of the Indian subcontinent, offering a taste of India’s diverse culinary heritage.     

Suresh Grover, co-Chair Platform for Indian Democracy said, “The beauty of India is not just the formation of a united nation from the rubble of partition but its rich culture – a constellation of art forms and music; its unmatched landscape of diversity of language and religions. 

This is where the beauty meets the best – and we in UK should be proud to showcase the full spectrum – from ‘traditional to modern’ to ensure love trumps hate”   

In addition to the performances, the event also premiered ‘Determined: Our Legacy as British Indians,’ a collaborative project with renowned exhibition curator, oral historian, and ethnomusicologist Rolf Killius. 

This 15-part film project highlights the significant impact of British Indians across various sectors and their enduring contributions to the UK’s cultural and social landscape.  

Rolf Killius, the producer of the film, said: “It has been such a pleasure conducting the video art project ‘DETERMINED: Our Legacy as British Indians’ for the Platform for Indian Democracy. We have interviewed 15 young people from all walks of life: singers, radio artist music shop owner, human rights activist, researcher, dancer, Jazz musician and even a female cricketer. 

All of them emphasised that they can only thrive in a multi-cultural, diverse and democratic society and that wish these conditions for the people of all countries. I really enjoyed myself working with them and presenting this project on the Cultural Ball.” 

Speaking about the event, Raul Lai, project manager of the Platform for Indian Democracy, said: “For many British Indians, our culture and art are the strongest connections we have to our homeland. It has also become such an important aspect of the UK’s cultural landscape. From bhangra, to garba to chicken tikka masala being the UK’s national dish, the tapestry of Indian culture has spread far and wide. 

It is so important for us to celebrate and uplift this legacy of music, art and culture. Not only to take pride in the magical way Indian culture can bring people together but also to keep us connected to India.”