The Bhavan, London, celebrated India’s Republic Day on 10 February 2026, with His Excellency Kartik Pande, Acting High Commissioner of India, as chief guest.
The event began with a Vedic prayer by Executive Director Dr M N Nandakumara, followed by a welcome address from Senior Trustee Varinder Singh. Councillor Sharon Holder, Mayor of Hammersmith and Fulham, highlighted Bhavan’s role in uniting the community through culture and expressed her support for its parking appeal to the Council.
Lord Dholakia OBE PC, Deputy Leader of the Liberal Democrats and Patron of The Bhavan, praised the institution for fostering cultural identity and a sense of belonging, calling it a “home away from home.” He also highlighted India’s progress toward self-sufficiency and the evolving India-UK bilateral relations.
The chief guest, His Excellency Kartik Pande, reflected on India’s achievements, including high voter turnout, strong economic growth, and active diplomacy representing the Global South. He emphasised the diaspora’s role as ambassadors, strengthening India-UK ties, and commended The Bhavan for preserving and promoting arts and culture.
The vote of thanks was delivered by Dr Surekha Mehta, Vice-Chair of The Bhavan, who expressed gratitude to Acting High Commissioner Kartik Pande and the High Commission for their support and highlighted India’s economic progress and self-sufficiency.
Guests included Kavita Reddi, Chair of the University of London Board of Trustees, Girish Sanger, and Shobana Iyer. The speeches were followed by cultural performances by Bhavan’s music and dance students, and the event concluded with the National Anthem.
