Since inception of Jat Samaj UK in Nov-2017, we organised our first event of Makar Sankranti festival, celebrated on 13th Jan 2018. The event was organised in Fern Hill Primary School in Kingston. Despite being the first event and organised within short period, it was highly successful event with attendance of 130+ members.
Event included traditional fold music, songs and dances by ladies and folk sangits by elderly women. Many popular Haryanavi ragnis were sang by men and women too. There was a Jatu language competition for children which was very well received by young children and made adults giggle with old memories. Star attraction of the event was Ganna (sugarcane) competition by men, women and children. Some members acknowledged of having Ganna first time in UK after nearly 10 years.
Food was scrumptious with all traditional dishes which many of us didn’t have for many years like Pethey Ki Sabji, Khee, Besan Halwa, Nooni Ghee, Kachari Ki Chatni. Food quality was highly appreciated by all the members.
Some of quotes from members were:
“First time in UK, I felt like being in my village with my fellow Jat people”
“Food reminded me of my grand-mother who laced my rotis with Nooni Ghee”