BRADFORD/LONDON, Jan 19: The city of Bradford in West Yorkshire, northern England, has officially kicked off its City of Culture 2025 celebrations, with enthusiastic participation from the British Indian community eager to highlight the area’s diversity, lively markets, and renowned curry eateries.
Bradford was awarded the title of UK City of Culture for 2025 after triumphing in a competitive field of 20 government-supported bids.
The initiative, spreading across the entire Bradford district in West Yorkshire, commenced last weekend with a spectacular performance celebrating the region’s rich cultural tapestry, where one in three residents identify as having South Asian heritage.
“Our communities should have the power to unite, share their narratives, and effect change locally. That is the essence of the UK City of Culture competition,” stated Lisa Nandy, the British Indian Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport.
“Tremendous enthusiasm and dedication have gone into organizing Bradford’s celebratory year. The city is buzzing with anticipation as people prepare to display their talents. I urge everyone to attend some of the amazing events lined up for the forthcoming year,” she added.
A full year of performances, exhibitions, and activities, inspired by the remarkable variety of the landscape—from the historic city center to the picturesque surrounding countryside—will honor Bradford’s rich heritage as a former industrial hub and the world’s first UNESCO City of Film.
Deepak Sharma, Trustee of Bradford Hindu Council and part of the community group that worked diligently since 2018 to secure the winning bid, is thrilled about the upcoming Diwali, rangoli, and yoga events.
“Our aim with Bradford as the City of Culture is to showcase our roots and the diversity we possess here,” said Sharma, whose parents emigrated from Punjab, and who was born in Bradford.
“We have plans for rangoli sessions with children, yoga to celebrate International Yoga Day, and a series of summer events, including mehndi festivals. We also aim to create a gallery to display Indian costumes, music, and dance from various regions of India. Visitors and locals alike will encounter a vibrant Indian cultural experience throughout the year,” he expressed.
Fatima Patel, founder of the local ‘Asian Standard’ weekly, is another proud “Bradford born and bred,” with roots tracing back to Gujarat.
“There’s so much we can showcase. Many people from outside haven’t had the chance to explore our city and don’t realize how stunning, beautiful, dynamic, and culturally rich it is,” Patel commented.
“Having the UK City of Culture 2025 here is incredible, as we get to invite everyone to discover our wonderful city, its beautiful landscapes, and all the fantastic activities happening in our town,” she highlighted.
Patel takes particular pride in Bradford’s heritage of Indian cuisine, often referred to as curry in the region, which has evolved with South Asian influences over the years.
“We’ve earned the title of curry capital for six consecutive years, and we are proud to showcase our exceptional curry cuisine,” she added.
Stars from Bollywood, such as Akshay Kumar and Ranveer Singh, have been drawn to the city for its historic architecture, featuring in major films over time.
“All eyes will be on Bradford as we begin the 2025 UK City of Culture… We will introduce audiences to our rural landscapes, honor our local heroes, and platform the extraordinary talent emerging from our vibrant city. This is our moment, and it begins with RISE,” commented Shanaz Gulzar, Creative Director of Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture, during the glittering opening ceremony last week.
This month, two significant exhibitions were launched in Bradford as part of the UK City of Culture program: ‘Nationhood: Memory and Hope,’ showcasing new works by acclaimed Ethiopian artist Aïda Muluneh, and ‘Fighting to be Heard’ (17 January – 27 April 2025) at Cartwright Hall Art Gallery, which explores connections between ancient calligraphy and boxing, along with rare items from the British Library’s Arabic and Urdu collections.
Additionally, the National Science and Media Museum has reopened after extensive renovations, featuring a captivating David Hockney exhibition titled ‘Pieced Together,’ focusing on the renowned artist’s innovative use of film and photography.
Akram Khan, a British Bangladeshi choreographer, presents ‘Jungle Book Reimagined’ at Bradford’s Alhambra Theatre, offering a fresh perspective on Rudyard Kipling’s beloved story through the lens of a refugee navigating the impacts of climate change.
West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin remarked: “Bradford’s creative sectors are bursting with innovation, diversity, and flair. With these stunning opening events, the world will witness Bradford at its finest.
“That’s why we are investing GBP 6 million into Bradford UK City of Culture 2025 – to draw in visitors and investments, create jobs and growth, and foster a brighter, stronger West Yorkshire.” (PTI)
