Upton Manor residents enjoyed a feast of cultural entertainment when they celebrated India Independence Day.
The home, where several staff have an Indian heritage, marked the day with a flamboyant festival of entertainment for residents, guests and staff – with some staff adorning traditional dress.
Enthusiastic resident Irene Ellis, aged 93, was hugely impressed with the event.
She said:
“Today was a feast for the belly, eyes, ears and soul” and added: “‘It is such a lovely thing to be able to observe days from different cultures, especially when you get to celebrate it with those people personally. Happy Independence Day, India!”
The home bistro was brilliantly decorated with flags and bunting, and lunch included a delicious selection of Indian cuisine made freshly by Upton Manor’s home chef.
The day even included an armchair visit around India and Bollywood dancing.
Homemakers Anish Chacko and Deepa Soman enjoyed talking about the importance of the occasion.
Anish said:
“This is our 78th year of celebrating our freedom from British rule. In India, our Prime Minister will raise our flag and address the nation, everyone celebrates our Independence Day by making and handing out Payasam and chocolates, and some dress up in costumes as the freedom fighters.”
Deepa added:
“We very much appreciate Upton Manor recognising and celebrating our special day with us!”
Resident Heather Wyatt, aged 81, said:
“I’ve never had the pleasure of celebrating India Independence Day before, it was really special, I won’t forget it.”
Fellow resident Anne Dent, aged 89, enjoyed having a dance to traditional Indian music with Anoop and Anish.
She added:
“How lovely to see the homemakers in their traditional attire, it has been such a wonderful afternoon. I very much enjoyed the Korma and samosas at lunch.”
India became an independent dominion in the British Commonwealth of Nations on August 15, 1947.
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