02/10/2025
UK This Week: Navratri, Garba, and More
The UK is alive with the colors, music, and spirit of India this October, as communities mark the arrival of major festivals including Navratri and Diwali. From lively dance nights in London to multi-day cultural showcases in Liverpool, here’s your guide to what’s happening across the country this week.
Navratri & Garba Nights
Navratri, the nine-night festival dedicated to Goddess Durga, is one of the most anticipated events in the Indian calendar. In the UK, it’s celebrated with Garba and Dandiya Raas—traditional group dances performed in circles with rhythmic claps and colorful sticks. Expect dazzling outfits, live dhol beats, and Bollywood music filling community halls and venues.
London:
Bollywood Navratri Night takes place on October 3rd at the Spice Rack Lounge, Stanmore. This popular event combines high-energy Garba with Bollywood tunes, alongside Indian street food and cocktails—perfect for both seasoned dancers and newcomers.
Leicester:
Leicester, home to one of the largest Indian communities in Europe, is hosting multiple Garba nights across its community centers. Thousands are expected to attend, making it one of the biggest Navratri hubs outside India.
INDIKA Festival – Liverpool
Further north, Liverpool is in the midst of its annual INDIKA Festival, which runs throughout October. This celebration of Indian arts features:
Classical and fusion concerts
Dance showcases, including Bharatanatyam and Kathak
Yoga and wellness sessions
Storytelling for families
The festival culminates later this month with Diwali-themed events, ensuring the festive spirit carries on well into November.
Diwali Celebrations to Look Ahead
While Navratri takes center stage this week, the countdown to Diwali—the Festival of Lights—has already begun.
London: On October 12th, Trafalgar Square will host Diwali on the Square, a free family-friendly event featuring music, dance, Rangoli art, and food stalls. Expect dazzling lights, cultural performances, and a bustling street-fair atmosphere.
Birmingham: The city’s Soho Road Diwali Mela will bring together live music, parades, and fireworks later this month.
Manchester & Glasgow: Both cities will host Diwali markets and fairs, showcasing crafts, performances, and traditional Indian cuisine.
Festive Spirit Across the UK
These events aren’t just for the Indian diaspora—they’re open to everyone who wants to experience the warmth, joy, and togetherness of Indian culture. Whether it’s swirling through Garba, enjoying soulful sitar music, or savoring hot samosas at Diwali fairs, there’s something for all ages and backgrounds.
This October, the UK becomes a kaleidoscope of Indian traditions—bringing light, dance, and community spirit to autumn evenings.
