Bhangra Beats for a Cause at Indian Cultural Night

On Saturday, November 9th, Maidenhead Bridge Rotary Club held its annual Indian Cultural Night, this year celebrating the vibrant traditions of India’s Punjab region. The event brought the community together in a lively evening of cultural festivities at Holyport Memorial Hall, raising just over £2,000 for two impactful charities: Rotary's Vocational Training Team (VTT) and Maidenhead based charity Alzheimer’s Dementia Support (ADS).
 
The evening was attended by several distinguished guests, including Her Excellency Nimisha Madhvani, Uganda’s High Commissioner, and Kate Hodges, Rotary District Governor for The Thames Valley. Their presence highlighted the significance of the evening, supporting both the cultural celebration and the charitable mission of the event.
 
This year’s celebration was inspired by Punjab, with the Vasda Punjab Bhangra Group from West London headlining the evening. Known for their dedication to preserving and showcasing traditional folk dance, the group energised the audience with an exhilarating Bhangra performance, immersing guests in the sights and sounds of Punjabi culture.
 
Guests were also treated to a Bhangra workshop, where they learned some basic moves from the professionals themselves. Laughter and excitement filled the room as attendees put their new steps to practice, dancing the night away to lively beats that kept the energy high and spirits even higher.
 
Rotary's Vocational Training Team (VTT), led by Maidenhead Bridge Rotary’s Gillian Pearce, is preparing for a significant mission to Uganda. The team of professionals will work closely with local healthcare practitioners, focusing on child and maternal health training, including emergency birthing procedures, to enhance medical support in the region.
 
The event also supported Alzheimer’s Dementia Support (ADS), a charity that provides vital services and guidance to families in Maidenhead and the surrounding area affected by dementia. With an emphasis on uplifting those facing the challenges of dementia, ADS offers practical help and fosters moments of joy and connection for patients and their families.
 
Guests at Indian Cultural Night were welcomed with traditional Punjabi warmth, with the entrance adorned in festive décor reflecting the cultural richness of India’s northern state. Attendees also enjoyed an authentic Punjabi meal with signature dishes that offered a taste of India’s robust culinary heritage.
 
Rajan Gujral, the event organiser, expressed his gratitude: “We are thrilled to see the community’s enthusiasm and generosity. This event is not just a celebration of Indian culture but a chance to come together for meaningful causes. Rotary’s Vocational Training Team and Alzheimer’s Dementia Support are doing incredible work, and we are proud to support them.”
 
Club President, Sarah Street, shared her thoughts on the event: "We are truly overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from our community. This Indian Cultural Night was a testament to the power of unity and cultural exchange. We are grateful to everyone who contributed to the success of this event and helped us raise much-needed funds for these remarkable charities."
 
Maidenhead Bridge Rotary Club plans to continue its tradition of hosting vibrant and impactful events that bring the community together while supporting local and international charitable causes. For more information and to be kept up to date about other events organised by the club visit www.maidenheadbridgerotary.org.uk or contact Lisa Hunter on 07876 341334 or e-mail [email protected]