A fast-growing musical movement that mixes traditional Hindu bhajans with high-energy, contemporary performance is coming to Leicester Avanti Fields School for the first time this Bank Holiday Monday, 4 May 2026.
Bhajan Jam, an upbeat and family-friendly event, has been organised by the youth wing of Vaishnav Sangh UK and coordinated by volunteer organiser Umang Rajdev, who hopes to make devotional music exciting and relevant for a new generation.
Vaishnav Sangh UK, a Pushtimargiya Vaishnav community group established around 15 years ago, runs major centres in Harrow and Leicester. VSUK have been working to help British-born Hindus reconnect with their cultural and religious heritage. “We want young people to feel proud of their roots while having the space to ask questions and explore what faith means to them today,” he said.
Bhajan Jam is a relatively new cultural phenomenon. It first emerged in India in late 2025 and has since grown rapidly, attracting large crowds of young people looking for uplifting, music, and positive, engaging nights out without alcohol or smoking. Following a successful event in London, the movement is now expanding to Leicester.
The Leicester Bhajan Jam will take place at Avanti Fields School, where organisers expect around 500 attendees. Doors open at 5pm, with food stalls, photo booth and mehndi available before the main programme begins at 6pm.
The evening will feature five themed sets of live bhajans inspired by popular stories from the life of Shree Krishna, ranging from colourful Holi festivities to celebrations of Krishna’s birth. The music builds gradually through the night, encouraging the audience to sing, dance and take part.
An eight-piece band made up of musicians from the UK’s Indian music scene will perform, led by Leicester-born singer Nikesh Parmar. The line-up combines traditional instruments such as flute and tabla with keyboard and contemporary percussion, creating a sound that is modern yet rooted in classical Indian music.
All ticket proceeds will go to charity, supporting Vrajdham Haveli (Leicester), Shrinathdham National Haveli and Community Centre (London) and a range of Vaishnav Sangh UK community projects. “It’s completely youth-led,” Rajdev said. “Organising events like this is our way of contributing to our temples and giving back to the wider community.”
Although devotional in theme, organisers emphasise that the event is open to all, regardless of faith or background. “Anyone who enjoys cultural music, or simply wants to experience something new and uplifting, is welcome,” Rajdev said.
Asked what Leicester audiences can expect on the bank holiday, he kept it simple: “High-energy.”
For tickets, please follow the link https://www.tickettailor.com/events/vaishnavsanghofuk/2153610
