Radiant Princess of Wales is mobbed by fans on visit to Leicester’s ‘Golden Mile’ and goes barefoot as she tries traditional dancing

Princess of Wales embraced by Leicester’s ‘Golden Mile’ community during vibrant cultural visit

Today’s visit to Leicester by the Princess of Wales was marked by a lively reception that mirrored the energy of a Bollywood scene, featuring spontaneous dancing, honking vehicles, and a crowd eager to greet her. As she walked through the city’s bustling streets, she was joined by fans waving enthusiastically from their cars, with no road closures disrupting the flow of daily life.

While visiting family-owned businesses and the famed ‘Golden Mile,’ a jeweler paused to greet her with a heartfelt ‘Welcome to Leicester, Ma’am,’ while an elder handed over a handwritten blessing. The princess, clad in a white knitted dress paired with a knife pleated skirt, was later presented with a garland of pearls and roses at the Belgrave Neighbourhood Centre, which had recently celebrated Holi, the festival of color, love, and spring.

A group of Bollywood dancers performed a routine for her, during which she was gifted a rose to hold. She remarked that her three children would ‘love’ the energetic moves, adding, ‘Louis would love your dance routine.’ Later, the princess joined in with traditional dancing and made an offering of milk during her first visit to a Hindu temple in Britain.

Kate, who was barefoot for the ceremony, said ‘oh, go on then’ when invited to take part in a ladies’ dance. This moment highlighted her engagement with local traditions as she continued her journey to connect with Leicester’s British Indian community.

Aakash Odedra: Bridging culture through art

Upon arrival at the Belgrave Neighbourhood Centre earlier today, the princess met Aakash Odedra, a celebrated choreographer and founder of the Aakash Odedra Company. He shared that the garland was crafted specifically for her, believing ‘there is no better way to welcome a guest than to garnish their soul with flowers.’

Odedra, born in Birmingham, is an award-winning Bollywood dancer trained in Bharatanatyam and Kathak, and a former student of Shiamak Davar, a renowned Indian choreographer. The company he established in 2011 aims to create ‘a happier and healthier society through dance and the arts,’ reflecting its commitment to cultural enrichment.

Last year, the troupe partnered with Move Against Cancer to offer movement lessons for patients in recovery, a initiative that resonated with the princess, who had recently announced her cancer remission after undergoing chemotherapy in early 2024. Her participation in the temple’s traditional dance underscored her ongoing connection to both heritage and health advocacy.