UK and india can lead the world in film, fashion, music and arts, say ministers at new cultural agreement reception
New delhi, 14 may 2025 — The United Kingdom and India can emerge as global leaders in the realms of film, fashion, music and the arts, ministers from both countries asserted at a special reception to mark the signing of a new Cultural Cooperation Agreement between the two nations.
The event, hosted by Lindy Cameron CB OBE, the British High Commissioner to India, was attended by Lisa Nandy, the UK’s Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, and Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, India’s Minister for Culture and Tourism. The evening brought together cultural luminaries, government officials and industry leaders to celebrate the strengthening of UK-India cultural ties.
Both dignitaries underlined the pivotal role that art and culture play in bridging communities and fostering lasting bonds of friendship between nations. In his address, Mr Shekhawat expressed his deep appreciation for Ms Nandy’s efforts in spearheading a new era in the vibrant cultural relationship between India and the UK.
“India and the United Kingdom share a rich and storied history of cultural exchange,” Mr Shekhawat remarked. “From the graceful movements of Bharatnatyam to the evocative rhythms of contemporary British performing arts, and the intricate designs of Indian crafts to the bold strokes of British visual arts, our cultural tapestry is woven with threads of mutual admiration and creative synergy.”
Ms Nandy echoed these sentiments, speaking of the potential that lies ahead. “In film, fashion, music and arts, Britain and India can lead the world,” she declared. “I look forward to a future where the UK and India, two great creative nations, continue to dream, collaborate and inspire the world together. Building on this foundation, let us be the exemplars of what it means to work across national boundaries to bring people together.”
The new bilateral Cultural Cooperation Agreement is seen as a cornerstone for deeper collaboration between the two countries’ creative industries. The agreement seeks to promote joint artistic ventures, encourage cultural tourism, and expand educational and professional opportunities for artists, musicians, filmmakers and designers.
Alison Barrett MBE, Country Director India at the British Council, who co-hosted the reception, spoke of the Council’s long-standing commitment to fostering such collaborations. “At the British Council, our work has been to deepen UK-India cultural and educational connections and build ever stronger bonds between people,” she said. “Our partnership celebrates creativity, drives innovation, and boosts tourism, sparking enduring connections that enrich both our societies.”
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The evening was made even more special by an enchanting performance from acclaimed Indian classical musician Vidya Shah, who captivated the audience with her soulful rendition of Begum Akhtar’s classic ghazal, Hamari Atariya Pe Aao. The performance, blending the timeless allure of Hindustani music with the refined ambience of the British High Commission, served as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of the arts to unite and uplift.
Industry observers believe that the agreement comes at a timely juncture, when global audiences are increasingly seeking diverse and inclusive narratives. The UK and India, with their rich creative heritages and thriving industries, are ideally placed to respond to this demand. From co-productions in cinema and television to cross-cultural exhibitions, fashion collaborations, and music festivals, the possibilities for cultural exchange are boundless.
As both nations look ahead to an era of renewed partnership in the creative sector, the message from the evening was clear: by combining their strengths and talents, India and the UK can indeed set the benchmark for cultural leadership on the global stage.
