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India comes alive at Regent Street Festival in London

India literally came alive at the annual Regent Street Festival in the heart of London on Sunday as it showcased its rich music, dance and colour.

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LONDON: India literally came alive at the annual Regent Street Festival in the heart of London on Sunday as it showcased its rich music, dance and colour witnessed by thousands of people from all walks of life.

Indian Tourism Minister Ambika Soni and the Mayor of London, Ken Livingstone, participated in the day-long festival, which climaxed the three-month 'India Now' season that has seen over 200 cultural organisations and attractions participate across the city.

Sharing the platform with London Mayor Livingstone, Soni said, "this is a beautiful way of celebrating the 60th anniversary of India's independence."

She told the vast gathering of NRIs, "We are proud of you and your achievements. Let this joint endeavour build stronger bonds between UK and India."

'India Now' showcases the South Asian country's contribution to world culture, its rich tradition and most importantly celebrates new Indian trends across business, art, film, theatre, food, music and fashion.

Present at the function, film actor Celina Jaitley said she wanted to present the picture of a modern India."

Another Bollywood actress Amrita Arora said, "it is great to have a platform like this to spread the culture of India."

"The Regent Street Festival is a highlight of London's calendar of summer events, this year made even more special as it celebrates the colour and excitement of modern India," Livingstone, who is visiting India in November, said.

"As the culmination of London's spectacular 'India Now' festival, this year's Indian-themed Regent Street Festival captures Britain's growing relationship with India and provides an exploration of India's culture and its contribution to London life," the Mayor said.

The festival is organised by the Regent Street Association and supported by the Indian Ministry of Tourism, the Mayor of London, Visit London, The Crown Estate, Westminster City Council and the New West End Company.

Courthouse Hotel Kempinski, owned by NRI entrepreneur Joginder Sangar was actively involved in the festival, providing free henna hand painting and bindis to women.

The highlight of the festival was Bharatanatyam, Kuchupudi and Manipuri dances by artistes from Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan.

An elegant white Asian wedding horse and carriage added to the Indian atmosphere and offered visitors a quick journey around Hanover Square.

The front of well-known children's toyshop Hamleys was transformed into a Goan beach, where Mayor Livingstone spent some time playing with his kids.

Artisans from India demonstrated their handicrafts including weaving, batik printing, embroidery and bead work and jewellery.

A street bazaar with market stalls added to the Indian flavour with spices, herbs, silks, teas and more

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