“If there is one place in the UK where Indian art and culture is taught and practised in the true traditional sense, it is, without doubt, the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan.” That’s what the late Pandit Ravi Shankar once said about this place. The Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan stands as a beacon of Indian culture right here in the heart of London.
The Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan’s journey began in India in 1938. Now, it boasts over 100 branches across India. This UK Bhavan holds a special distinction. It was the first independent overseas branch. Today, it remains the largest institute for Indian art and culture outside India.
The Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan’s teachings align closely with Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy. It operates as a secular and non-political organization. All are welcome regardless of race creed or orientation. The Bhavan champions equal opportunities.
Step inside the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan. You will find a vibrant hub of activity. Here, courses in music dance and languages thrive. Drama art archaeology and yoga are also taught. Around 900 students participate in these courses each year. The Bhavan offers various levels of study. These include open courses diploma programs spanning five years and master’s degrees. Individual training is available for those seeking advanced skills.
The Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan has academic ties with prestigious institutions. These include the University of Cambridge and Trinity College of Music in London. Soon the Bhavan will offer a Bachelor of Music degree in Indian Classical Music. This will be in collaboration with these partners.
The Bhavan’s mission is clear. It aims to preserve encourage and spread understanding of Indian art and culture. It integrates this rich heritage into the broader UK culture. The Bhavan promotes universal values through performance and education.
In April 2023 the London Bhavan marked its 50th anniversary. It began in 1972. Its initial goal was simple. It sought to promote Indian arts culture and philosophy. It achieved this through classes concerts lectures and workshops. Over the decades the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan has grown significantly. It has expanded both in size and impact. It is now the largest arts and culture institute outside India under one roof.
The Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan hosts over 100 concerts annually. These concerts are very important for students and music enthusiasts. The Bhavan supports both well-known and emerging artists. This commitment helps promote Indian performing arts widely.
The Bhavan also runs a Summer School for advanced students. Each year it invites artists from India. They lead intensive courses lasting three weeks. These courses focus on the latest developments in their fields. The Summer School recharges both students and teachers.
The Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan teaches 22 different subjects. Indian music and dance are popular. Indian art archaeology flute and Bengali music are also taught. Sanskrit Tamil and other languages are also included in the curriculum.
The executive director of the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan aims to share noble messages. Inspired by the Rig Veda, the Bhavan embraces noble thoughts from all directions. Rooted in Gandhian principles it provides authentic access to Indian culture and arts. It offers education that stands the test of time.
Interest in Indian arts has grown over the years. This is partly due to increased travel to the UK. Popularity of Indian films has also played a role. People often want to join classes after watching these films.
The Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan enriches the cultural social and economic life. It does this for local national and international communities. It develops innovative artists. It celebrates traditional art forms.
The Bhavan views the arts as a powerful force. It fosters personal fulfilment and social good. It values the artist’s active role in society.