For the first time in history, Uttar Pradesh Day was celebrated outside India in a grand event hosted at the British Parliament in London. The Uttar Pradesh Community Association (UPCA), UK, which represents residents of Uttar Pradesh (UP) living in Great Britain, organised this landmark celebration. The event witnessed an enthusiastic gathering of UP-origin expatriates, esteemed representatives, councillors, and dignitaries.
UPCA’s Vision and Leadership
Manoj Mishra, a key UPCA member, delivered an insightful presentation about Uttar Pradesh and the association’s initiatives. UPCA President Madhuresh Mishra highlighted the organisation’s mission to promote culture, values, and service, driven by their motto: “Be One, Be Noble, and Move Forward”.
Honourable Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Brajesh Pathak, extended his best wishes to the participants of the Uttar Pradesh Day celebrations through a video message. During his address, he detailed the state’s remarkable achievements in various sectors, emphasising the government’s commitment to development and progress.
The event, held at the British Parliament in London, also saw active participation from prominent British dignitaries and Members of Parliament who shared their connections to Uttar Pradesh and acknowledged the vital contributions of the UP diaspora.
British MP Navendu Mishra, who presided over the event, applauded the UP-origin community for their significant political and cultural contributions in the United Kingdom. He also expressed pride in his personal connection to Uttar Pradesh, noting that his family hails from the state.
British MP and Padma Shri awardee Bob Blackman praised the accomplishments of the governments of India and Uttar Pradesh, highlighting the global impact of UP expatriates.
Former MP Virendra Sharma emphasised the exceptional contributions of the Indian community, particularly those of UP origin, to Britain’s economy, society, and education.
Former London Deputy Mayor Rajesh Agrawal, recalling his travels to Uttar Pradesh, spoke fondly about the state’s cultural richness and encouraged Britons to visit and experience its heritage firsthand.
The event was infused with vibrant cultural performances:
A mesmerising Kathak dance on Bhagwan Ganesha and Shiva Vandana by Avni, Vanshika, and Sanvi.
A heartwarming rendition of Mangal Geet by Ayansh, Myra, Tiya, Arya, Ramith, Sparsh, and Aria.
To honour their efforts, all participating children were awarded appreciation certificates. Additionally, distinguished individuals contributing to community service and serving as councillors were recognised with special certificates.
UPCA General Secretary Ashwani Srivastava provided an engaging overview of Uttar Pradesh’s rapid and multifaceted development under the current leadership. His presentation highlighted the state’s progress in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and tourism.
The success of the event was attributed to the dedication and meticulous planning of UPCA members, including Virendra Mishra, Santosh Pandey, Arun Chaubey, Rajesh Vishwakarma, Vaishali Nagpal, Piyushita and Rajeev Gupta, Nishtha Dwivedi, Ashish Mishra, Subhash Barnwal, Rohin Grover, Pankaj Mishra, and Indresh Mishra.
In his concluding remarks, host Manoj Mishra expressed heartfelt gratitude to all attendees and congratulated the community for bringing Uttar Pradesh Day to the international stage for the first time.
