Diwali Tree (Sanjivani) Play performed by Children 27 October 2024

Peepul Centre, in partnership with Rita Trust, started their Diwali celebrations with a children’s play based on the Sanjivani Tree in the ancient historical epic Ramayana, now running for its 6th year.

Anil Bhanot created the concept and authored a children’s book on the Diwali Tree back in 2015 and enacted a play at the Peepul Centre Theatre first in 2018 and since then it has gone from strength to strength.

Sita was abducted by King Ravan when she was alone in the jungle and her husband Ram left no stone unturned until he rescued her from across the seas.
During the battle to free her Ram’s brother Lakshman was revived by the herbal life giving Sanjavani (Bay) tree.

Sharan Kaur, the play’s director and choreographer, recruited and trained over 20 children from the ages of 6 to 16, who performed several dances. Anil Bhanot with his team of musicians sang Hindu Mantar’s & Bhajans, Sikh Shabads, to finally end with a Sufiana style Bhajan Qawwali.

Peepul Centre staff worked hard to put the production together and with a full house thanks to its director Dr Santosh Bhanot’s curation and team.

Moral of the story for the children is that abduction and kidnapping of innocent vulnerable people can never be tolerated, a Happy Diwali to all.

Anil Bhanot
Chairman
Peepul Centre

Highlights from Our Mela Extravaganza Weekend!

What an incredible weekend! The Mela Extravaganza Weekend was a whirlwind of culture, fun, and community spirit. We welcomed over 2,500 visitors on Sunday including dignitaries, councillors, musicians, artists and  people from all over the country to take part in the fun and activities. Here’s a recap of the fantastic moments.

A Night of Arts & Culture

On Saturday 18 May, we kicked off with a night of classical music and culture, featuring tabla, santoor, ghazals, harmonium, and Indian dances. It was a night to remember.

Sunday Funday: Stalls, Fashion, Food, and Fun!

Sunday 19 May was packed with over 50 stalls of food, fashion, and funfair activities. Highlights included Bollywood star Navin Kundra’s performance and a raffle with the top prize of a trip to Scotland. Nearly 3,000 people enjoyed the energy and excitement!

Celebrating World Mental Health & Wellbeing Day

Our Second Annual World Mental Health & Wellbeing Day, chaired by Dr Santosh Bhanot, featured over 25 health stalls supporting our community’s well-being. The Peepul Centre continues to be a community hub, offering services like a weekly Neighbourhood Mental Health Café in partnership with the NHS.

Wrapping Up an Amazing Weekend

The Mela Extravaganza Weekend celebrated community, culture, and care. Thanks to everyone who participated, attended, and sponsored the event—you made it truly special.

We can’t wait for next year!