Friday, 6 November 2026
Kirsty Corbett speaks with Bina Vasdev, a volunteer, and Morgan Feely, Property Curator at Kedleston Hall, about bringing the vibrant celebrations of Diwali to the historic National Trust property. This Listen Again upload explores the importance of making historic properties more inclusive and accessible while celebrating South Asian cultural heritage.
Bina and Morgan talk about the transformation of the hall, highlighting the creation of a spectacular marigold rangoli using flowers from Bengal and the styling of the 18th-century dining room with beautiful Indian brassware and lamps.
They also detail the traditional Garba dancing, known as stick dancing, which the public can join on Saturday afternoons, alongside a special storytelling performance by ISKCON from Leicester inspired by the story of Rama and Sita.
They also discuss how this initiative is creating a lasting legacy for Diwali at Kedleston Hall and the importance of connecting younger generations with their cultural traditions.