Thetford’s Punjab Links Celebrated
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The Festival of East Anglia & Punjab explores the cultural links between the two regions through the story and legacy of Maharajah Duleep Singh and the last royal family of the Punjab, who lived in Norfolk. This year also marks the 75th Anniversary of India and Pakistan independence, and the Partition that divided Punjab into two halves, when the once vast Kingdom of Duleep Singh was separated between two nations. With events taking place across Essex, Suffolk and Norfolk, the Festival of East Anglia & Punjab will bring communities together to share cultures, customs and traditions through heritage and the arts. With a wide range of activities planned, from melas, music and performances, to talks, food and family events, the festival will have something for everyone, appealing to people of all ages and from different backgrounds. Highlights include an exhibition on Princess Catherine Duleep Singh and an exciting programme of events
at Ancient House Museum; an exhibition on Maharajah Duleep Singh at Norfolk Record Office showcasing original artefacts from the Bance Collection; and Thetford Mela. The festival is back after a break of two years and has developed with a wider reach to new audiences, partners, and programming. The events will promote cultural tourism and the support the local economy in the Eastern Region. On Sunday July 10th a riot of colour and sound will descend on the town as dance, music, gatka, bhangra and Punjabi food will be celebrated from 1 – 5pm ‘On The Green’. Ancient House Museum will be open from 10am – 5pm, where costumed characters will share the connections between the Norfolk regiment and Duleep Singh. The Sikh Museum Initiative will also be demonstrating their digital Sikh relic object handling. For more information visit: www.essexcdp.com/event/feap/ Festival Box Office: 07802 701911 or www.leapinghare.org
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