BRADFORD — In a historic weekend for the district’s cultural landscape, the Bradford Hindu Council (BHC) joined community leaders and artists to celebrate the official launch of Kala Sangam Global at the newly transformed Bradford Arts Centre on Saturday, 21st March.
The event marked the inauguration of the organization’s UK chapter, a visionary move to bridge traditional South Asian heritage with contemporary global expression. For the BHC, the afternoon was a source of immense pride, highlighting a deepening partnership between the city’s Hindu community and the Bradford Arts Centre as a premier cultural venue.
A Landmark Collaboration
The launch was a significant milestone for Mr. Deepak Sharma, who attended in his dual capacity as the newly appointed Chair of the Bradford Arts Centre and Trustee (PRO) of the Bradford Hindu Council. His presence underscored the vital link between the governance of Bradford’s cultural institutions and the grassroots community organizations that sustain them.
Alex Croft, CEO of the Bradford Arts Centre, was on hand to welcome guests to the £7.9 million transformed Grade II listed building (St Peter’s House). Throughout the afternoon, BHC representatives—including Jayaraj Nambiar (Vice Chair), Hema Shanmugan (Trustee), and Reshma Patel (Trustee) all engaged in in-depth conversations with attendees.
These discussions focused on how the revamped centre serves as a “cultural home” for the communities in Bradford, with many visitors expressing how vital it is to have a space where South Asian arts are not just hosted but celebrated on a global scale.
Mr. Croft praised the founders’ enduring influence and the strength of the local community. “The transformation of this building into the Bradford Arts Centre was about capacity and accessibility,” he noted. “But the launch of Kala Sangam Global is about soul. Working alongside Deepak and the Hindu Council ensures that our programming remains authentically rooted in the community we serve.”
Indian Culture Comes to Life
The celebration culminated in a vibrant two-hour showcase in the new 170-seat theatre, featuring a diverse array of artists from across India to showcase the nation’s immense talent and culture. The performances spanned the geographical and artistic breadth of the subcontinent:
North India: Powerful Kathak recitals and soulful Hindustani vocals that echoed through the new hall.
South India: The intricate spiritual geometry of Bharatanatyam and the melodic complexity of Carnatic music.
East & West India: Traditional folk dances and contemporary fusions that highlighted the unique regional identities of Bengal, Gujarat, and beyond.
This curated selection of talent served as a powerful reminder of the Kala Sangam Global commitment to promoting authentic excellence across all Indian art forms.
Honouring the Founders
The inauguration was hosted by the revered founders of Kala Sangam, Dr. Shripati Upadhyaya and Dr. Geetha Upadhyaya. Their return to the building, now a state-of-the-art masterpiece, was met with deep respect and admiration. The Doctors shared their joy at seeing the “creative seed” they planted decades ago grow into an international venture that will now facilitate artistic exchange between the UK and India.
During the reception, the BHC leadership spent time listening to the aspirations of local families and artists. The consensus was clear: the partnership between Kala Sangam Global and the Arts Centre represents a new era of inclusivity and artistic excellence for Bradford.
A Day of Culture and Connection
The day began with guided tours of the refurbished building, including the Sangam Lounge, where guests admired heritage artwork and modern facilities. As Bradford continues its journey as a global cultural powerhouse, the synergy between the Bradford Hindu Council and the Bradford Arts Centre stands as a beacon of unity.
Under the stewardship of leaders like Deepak Sharma and Alex Croft, and with the enduring blessing of the Upadhyayas, the UK chapter of Kala Sangam Global is set to ensure that Bradford’s heartbeat remains rhythmically and authentically South Asian.
