ICCR Foundation Day Celebrated with Cultural Grandeur in Birmingham - 9 April 2026

A vibrant and memorable celebration of the Foundation Day of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) was held on 9 April 2026 at the Consulate General of India, Birmingham, bringing together over 100 distinguished guests for an evening of culture, community, and connection.

The event highlighted ICCR’s enduring mission of promoting India’s rich cultural heritage globally and fostering people-to-people ties. Speakers on the occasion reflected on ICCR’s remarkable achievements and shared their enriching personal experiences with its cultural initiatives.

Addressing the gathering, Consul General Dr. Venkatachalam Murugan underscored key initiatives of ICCR and the wide-ranging cultural activities undertaken by the Consulate across the Midlands. He emphasized the vital role of cultural diplomacy in strengthening India–UK relations and building lasting bridges between communities.

The evening featured a captivating array of performances that beautifully showcased India’s diverse cultural traditions. The audience was enthralled by classical and folk dances including Bihu, Garba, Bharatanatyam, and Kathak—each reflecting the richness and diversity of India’s artistic heritage.

The stage was graced by Rodali Bora, a University of Birmingham student and nationally acclaimed dancer and actor. Known for her expressive storytelling and compelling stage presence, she has performed before the Hon’ble Prime Minister and the President of India, and has received numerous national and international Best Actress awards. Her elegant Sattriya and Bihu performances were a highlight of the evening.

A soulful musical segment followed, with Dr. Deetima Gayan delivering mesmerizing renditions of “Mohe Rang Do Laal” from the film Bajirao Mastani and “Baiyan Na Dharo,” the timeless classic originally sung by Lata Mangeshkar, leaving the audience spellbound.

The programme also celebrated India’s cultural diversity through Garba, Gujarat’s iconic folk dance, which was inscribed in 2023 on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The performance by Radhika Kulkarni, Picky Rasaily, and Jyoti Singh highlighted the dance’s spirit of community and inclusivity.

A graceful Kathak recital by Aahan Singh Rana and Nishta Singh Rana, students of the University of Warwick, captivated the audience through intricate footwork and expressive storytelling, embodying one of India’s finest classical dance traditions.

Adding a contemporary touch, Violetta Bhojwani and Anushka Bhojwani presented an engaging fusion performance on “Mi Gente” by IndiaRaga, blending Bharatanatyam with Carnatic music. Violetta’s journey, which began at the Consulate itself, reflected a deep and enduring connection to Indian classical arts.

The celebration concluded on a high note, reaffirming ICCR’s commitment to promoting India’s cultural legacy and strengthening cultural ties in the United Kingdom.