The Festival of Thetford and Punjab is returning this weekend with a vibrant line-up, which is expected to draw thousands.
The Festival of Thetford and Punjab, is taking place this Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th July, with entry free to all.
Picture credit: Thetford Mela
Now a much-anticipated annual event, it began in 2008 to commemorate the 125th anniversary of Maharaja Duleep Singh—the last emperor of the Sikh rule in Punjab. The festival celebrates the enduring connection between Norfolk and Punjab, a bond forged when Maharaja Duleep Singh was exiled from Punjab by the British and settled in Elveden with his family.
At the heart of this celebration is Inderjit Sandhu, Creative Director of the Essex Cultural Diversity Project, a national portfolio organisation funded by Arts Council England and Essex County Council. Sandhu has been instrumental in the festival’s growth since its inception.
Reflecting on the festival’s impact, Sandhu shares: “We started this event to honour the legacy of Maharaja Duleep Singh and to shine a light on the shared history between our communities. Each year, we see more people coming to pay their respects at the Duleep Singh family graves and to explore Thetford’s rich heritage. It’s wonderful to see local residents and visitors alike embracing this history.”
The festival has seen remarkable growth, particularly after the international success of the Satinder Sartaaj film *The Black Prince*, which brought Maharaja Duleep Singh’s story to a global audience. “The film created a ripple effect,” Sandhu notes. “Now, people travel from across the UK to be part of the festival. We’re expecting over 3,000 attendees this weekend, which is a testament to the power of storytelling and cultural pride.”
The event has become a staple in Thetford’s calendar, fostering community spirit and cultural understanding. “It’s more than just a celebration,” says Sandhu. “It’s a bridge between Norfolk and Punjab. Every year, we see friendships formed and a greater appreciation for our shared heritage.”
This year’s festival promises entertainment for all ages, featuring art stalls, a unique collection of coins from Maharaja Duleep Singh’s era, henna workshops, and collaborative art projects culminating in a vibrant procession. “We want everyone to feel included—whether you’re discovering Punjab’s history for the first time or reconnecting with your roots,” Sandhu adds.
Food enthusiasts can look forward to authentic Punjabi cuisine, freshly prepared on site by ‘Apna Pind’, a much-loved local business from Charlton, London. “The aromas alone will transport you to Punjab,” promises Sandhu with a smile.
For the first time, the Thetford Mela will introduce live Punjabi music, headlined by the Heritage Brass Band from India, the electrifying dhol masters Jaggi Brothers, the legendary Heera Group Dhami & Kumar, and G.I.D.A Kent, an all-female Punjabi folk dance troupe. The line-up also includes Circus Raj, Sikh martial arts demonstrations by Baba Fateh Singh Gatka Akhara, BEE2 Bhangra Star, and a host of local talent.
The Ancient House Museum will host special displays on Maharaja Duleep Singh, his parents Maharaja Ranjit Singh and Maharani Jind Kaur, and his first wife Maharani Bamba. Rare artefacts from the private collection of Sikh historian Peter Bance will be on view, including items relating to the Maharaja’s children.
The festival takes place on Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th July, with the Mela held on Sunday from 1pm to 5pm. Entry is free and open to all, with no booking required. Families and friends are warmly invited to join the celebrations.
As Inderjit Sandhu puts it, “This festival is a living reminder that our histories are intertwined. It’s a chance to celebrate, to learn, and to build lasting connections. We look forward to welcoming everyone to Thetford for a weekend of culture, community, and celebration.”
Note:
The Festival of Thetford and Punjab will be held at Thetford Grammar School, Bridge Street, Thetford, IP24 3AF. Please use the Grammar School gates opposite Thetford Green and Light Cinema (next to the bridge).
