2018 kicked off in London with a spectacular parade through the streets of Central London – the annual and world famous London New Year’s Day Parade.
The historic event attracts marching bands, floats and performers from all over the world, but one of the more unusual performances came form right here in London. Shree Muktajeevan Swamibapa Pipe Band London, with their unique fusion of traditional Scottish and Indian tunes, was amongst the leading pack of acts, and certainly one of the highlights of the Parade. The Band of fifty pipers and drummers, all of British Indian origin, showcased their musical talent and military-style discipline as they marched along Piccadilly passed the iconic Piccadilly Circus and Trafalgar Square, and finished along Whitehall by the Houses of Parliament in Westminster.
The wonderful spectacle of the Band in full Scottish regalia wowed the cheering crowds with their renditions of traditional piping tunes, such as ‘When the Saints Go Marching In’ and ‘Scotland the Brave’, as well as top Bollywood hits. Onlookers were surprised and delighted that the Band hails from Shree Swaminarayan Mandir Kingsbury, only a few miles north of the Parade route.
The Band has its origins in Central London, when in 1970, the Band’s founder and global spiritual leader, Shree Muktajeevan Swamibapa was so impressed with the discipline and dedications of a Scottish marching band that played in His honour during a parade to Trafalgar Square, that He commanded His disciples to start their own. Shree Muktajeevan Swamibapa Pipe Band London was established in 1972, and under the inspiration of current spiritual leader, Acharya Swamishree Maharaj, has become renowned around the world as being a civilian band with military style and discipline. The Band supports numerous charities and has performed at important national events including Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II Golden and Diamond Jubilees.
Shree Muktajeevan Swamibapa Pipe Band London is one of a five sister Pipe Bands across the world; others being situated in the USA, Kenya, Manchester and India. Together, Shree Muktajeevan Swamibapa Pipe Band currently has over 225 performing members, forming a key facet of the social and charitable activities of Maninagar Shree Swaminarayan Gadi Sansthan, all led by worldwide spiritual leader, Acharya Swamishree Maharaj.
