Harmony – BRISTOL MULTI FAITH FORUM

Harmony Buffet Lunch Party 2025

🌿Bristol Multi-Faith Forum (BMFF) warmly invites you to a special Harmony celebration and Buffet Lunch on Sunday, the 17th of August 2025 (11 am -3 pm) at ZaZa Bazar in Bristol, to share the message of community cohesion and to jointly commemorate Independence Days of India and Pakistan, in partnership with the Pakistan Association of Bristol (PAB) and the Indian Community of West of England (ICWE). It will be a heartfelt celebration of culture, connection, cuisine, shared heritage, peace, and unity. Many dignitaries, artists, and people from various walks of life are participating. This kind of harmony celebration, bringing together both Indian and Pakistani communities together is very special and unique, and conveys the message of harmony to the rest of the world. August is also South Asian Heritage Month, making this gathering an especially fitting celebration. Please book your seats soon. 🌿

📍Venue: ZaZa Bazaar, Harbourside, Bristol, UK (BS1 5UH)
📅 Date: Sunday, 17th August 2025
⏰ Time: 10.45 am for 11.00 am start.
🎟️ RSVP via email: info@bristolmultifaithforum.org.uk

🌸Harmony tastes better when shared 🌸

✨ What to expect at the India-Pakistan Harmony Buffet:

🌸 Welcome Drinks and 🧁 Light Refreshments at 11 am.

🕊️ Symbolic Cultural Unity Rituals: A candle-lighting ceremony for peace

National Anthems of India, Pakistan, and the UK.
Children’s flag exchange/ ribbon-tying ceremony to symbolize friendship

🍛 A Lavish Multi-Cuisine Buffet: The venue: Zaza Bazaar is one of the largest multi-cuisine buffet restaurants in the UK, with an exciting 1000-seats space offering a world of culinary adventure with over 300 dishes across the globe and a wide variety of delicacies from different cuisines, especially from South Asian, Far East, Caribbean, Tex Mex, American and European. You can choose from as many dishes and sweet treat desserts as you can enjoy. On Sundays, they have a special extra medley of exclusive ethnic dishes including Biriyani, Dosa, Uttapams, Cholle Poori, Kadhi Rice, Keema, Rasam, all-day English breakfast, and Sunday carvery. In addition, the specialist chefs will cook the dishes of your liking at the live cooking stations too. Delight in the vibrant flavors of India and Pakistan, from fragrant biryanis and kebabs to fresh chaats, curries, and sweet treats—all lovingly prepared to celebrate the distinct and shared culinary heritage of these two nations.The South Asian food stall at ZaZa Bazaar uses only halal meat, and there are no mixed meats in that counter. However, it does not apply to other food counters. In addition, as a matter of BMFF hospitality policy, we won’t serve any alcoholic drinks at our events.

🎶 Diverse Music,🕺 Dance & Cultural Highlights.

🎼Curated Music Playlist that reflects harmony and shared heritage, such as:

Instrumental fusion – Tabla meets acoustic guitar, sitar with piano
Popular classics – Songs from Bollywood and Lollywood golden eras
Independence anthems – Instrumental or softly played versions of:
- “Sare Jahan Se Achha” (India)
- “Dil Dil Pakistan” (Pakistan)
Contemporary South Asian artists

💃 Dance Performances: Celebrate shared and unique styles from both cultures, such as:

Bharatanatyam – Classical Indian dance that tells stories with gestures
Kathak – North Indian classical dance rooted in storytelling and rhythm
Bhangra or Giddha – Energetic Punjabi folk dances (group or duo)
Dhamal – A traditional Sufi dance from Pakistan
Thiruvathira: A traditional rhythmic Kerala woman’s dance
Bollywood fusion – A modern, fun blend of various Indian dance styles. At the end to build connection—maybe even a Bollywood-Bhangra mashup for all ages!

🕊️ Moments of Reflection & Unity: With brief words of peace, shared stories, and an open space for connection, we celebrate what unites us.

🎶 Cultural Ambiance: Enjoy soft music, colorful decor, and a warm atmosphere reflecting the soul of the subcontinent.

🌸 Community & Conversation: Sit beside friends and strangers alike, and enjoy moments of meaningful conversation, just real connection.

🧵 Interactive Cultural Elements & Activities, such as

Henna art station
Calligraphy booth – Urdu and Hindi script writing (names or quotes)
Rangoli & Truck Art display – Floor art (India) & colourful motifs (Pakistan)
Photo corner with traditional props and backdrops
Storytelling or poetry – 5-minute pieces from both nations, including Sufi poetry or freedom-themed recitations

🧣 Traditional Attire Showcase: Guests to show their cultural dress:

Sarees, salwar kameez, lehengas, kurtas, sherwanis, dupattas
Celebrate the diversity with a short “Unity in Fabric” fashion walk or display

🎉 Dress Code: Feel free to wear traditional attire, festive colors, or simply come as you are.

🤝 Open to All People of Harmony: This event is open to all persons interested in the message of community cohesion living or working in Greater Bristol / West of England, and to all friends of peace and good food, who are interested in South Asian culture, who register in advance for the event. This event welcomes everyone who believes in togetherness over division.

Let’s mark this historic occasion not apart, but together — through shared stories, shared food, and a shared hope for unity. Let’s gather around the table, break bread, and celebrate independence with harmony at heart.

🎟️ Tickets

Early bird ticket: £15 [Sponsored, paid before 15th of July] Closing soon!
Ticket: £25 [paid before 31st of July]
Child (under 11): £10 [If booked and paid before 31st of July]
Child (under 5): £0 [Adult accompanied and booked before 31st of July]
Student with valid ID card: £15 [If booked & paid before 31st July]

Proceeds from the collection go to the ‘Feed the Homeless Initiative’

Eventbrite Tickets Link Closed, since 80% of Early Bird Tickets Sold Out: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/india-pakistan-harmony-celebration-and-buffet-luch-tickets-1443501244079

But don’t worry, we are reserving the rest of the tickets through email and bank transfer, to accommodate seats for our local community. Please use that option. Thank you for all your support.

💳 Ticket Payment Option

You can make payment via bank transfer using the bank details below to secure your place at the Harmony Buffet Lunch:

Bank Name: Barclays Bank
Sort Code: 20-68-15
Account Number: 23526682.
A/c Name: Bristol Multi-Faith Forum

📝 Important:

When making payment, please use the following format as your payment reference for the Harmony Buffet: 👉 [Your Full Name] – [HB: Number of Tickets] Example: “John Smith – HB: 5”

Once payment is made, kindly send a confirmation email to:
📧 info@bristolmultifaithforum.org.uk
Include your name, number of tickets, any dietary requirements as well as your contact number / address.

🎟️ You will receive a confirmation of your booking via email, later.

Let’s explain a bit more in simple words. In a world that moves faster than ever, Bristol Multi-Faith Forum cordially invites you and everyone who cares about peace and friendship to come together, connect, and relax at our upcoming Harmony Buffet Lunch at ZaZa Bazaar, Harbourside in Bristol on Sunday, 17th of August 2025 from 11 am to 3 pm. This event will include delicious food from different cuisines and colourful cultural performances. We are coming together to share the message of community cohesion and to celebrate the Independence Days of both India and Pakistan at the same time. This Harmony Buffet Lunch is a tribute to the richness of South Asian traditions, the beauty of community spirit, and the hope for a harmonious future. We aim to build stronger community bonds and spread the message of unity and togetherness.

This event shall be attended by His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant, His Majesty’s Ministers, officials from the Indian and Pakistani High Commissions, the Lord Mayor, the High Sheriff, the Metro Mayor, the Police and Crime Commissioner, Members of Parliament, university Vice-Chancellors, aldermen, councillors, civic officials, senior police officers, community leaders, artists, and people from various walks of life. We thank all our guests for their contributions and efforts.

This is the fourth year, Bristol Multi-Faith Forum (BMFF) organised the India-Pakistan harmony buffet series. Previous years’ harmony events were successful, and we received appreciation from all over the UK. In previous years, Bristol Multi-Faith Forum has also been involved in arranging similar events with the Palestinian and Israeli communities and was successful in combating prejudice and spreading the message of harmony.

August 14 marks Pakistan’s Independence Day, and August 15 is Indian Independence Day. Due to the trauma of partition and communal conflicts, as well as the history of wars between both countries, there are tensions and misunderstandings between both communities worldwide. We need to alleviate such animosities and divisions amongst both communities at the grassroots level in the West of England region. Through this event, BMFF provides a platform for Indian and Pakistani communities in the West of England region to meet, enjoy, and spread the message of peace and harmony.

The India and Pakistan Harmony Buffet is a symbolic expression of the friendship that must exist between the Indian and Pakistani communities, as well as amongst the Hindu, Muslim, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Bahai, Jewish, Parsi, humanist faith traditions, and all communities. At a time when togetherness matters more than ever, we gather to embrace a shared future rooted in respect, dialogue, and community spirit. Whether you are seeking a midday reset, mindful nourishment, or a chance to reconnect with your community, this event is designed to be more than just a meal—it is a moment of restoration and unity. 

Bristol Multi-Faith Forum offers this special Sunday Buffet lunch party at a discounted rate of £15 for our prepaid guests, if booked and paid before the 15th of July. It will be increased to £25 between the 15th of July and the 31st of July, when it closes bookings. Students with valid institution identity cards who prepay before 31st July shall pay only £15 per person. The children under 11 years of age shall pay only £10 per head, whereas it will be free for children under 5 years of age, if registered before the 31st of July. We provide free tickets to those who cannot afford to pay, if informed via email with a valid reason or proof, before the 31st of July. Proceeds from the ticket collection will go to the ‘Feed the Homeless Initiative’. Payment can be made via our bank account. Right of admission to the event is reserved. Please send your names via email to info@bristolmultifaithforum.org.uk, and grab the opportunity to book the seats as quickly as possible.

Bristol Multi-Faith Forum (BMFF) cordially invites all people of goodwill, living, working, or worshipping in Greater Bristol /the West of England region, to join the “India-Pakistan Harmony Buffet 2025” and to herald the message of peace and harmony amongst communities. If you or your organisation, wishes to be a stakeholder or contribute towards the event or perform a cultural programme at this event, please feel free to email us. We thank all people of goodwill for joining this friendship initiative and buffet lunch. Our acknowledgement and gratitude to all. Let’s all be part of the message of harmony and friendship.

Join us for the India- Pakistan Harmony Buffet Lunch. Nourish, Connect, Restore.

We look forward to celebrating with you.
🌿 Together in harmony, stronger in community. 🌿

With warm regards,

Cllr Tom Aditya
Chairman, Bristol Multi-Faith Forum.

Mohindra Singh, Adv. Tripti Megeri,
Afzal Shah, Mazhar Iqbal,
Mrs Shehnaz Dar, Arif Khan.

Facilitators- Harmony Buffet.

Bristol Multi-Faith Forum, 43 Ducie Road, Barton Hill, Bristol, BS5 0AX
Email: info@bristolmultifaithforum.org.uk
www.bristolmultifaithforum.org.uk

Facebook Link: https://www.facebook.com/events/1408377200210036/

Harmony Buffet 2024

In a world where division often dominates headlines, the Harmony Buffet Lunch held on Sunday, 18th of August 2024 at ZaZa Bazaar, Harbourside in Bristol served as a vibrant reminder of the power of unity, compassion, and cultural celebration. Organized by the Bristol Multi-Faith Forum (BMFF) in partnership with the Pakistan Association of Bristol (PAB) and the Indian Community of West of England (ICWE), the event brought together individuals from all walks of life—different faiths, backgrounds, and traditions—under one roof, sharing stories, laughter, multi-cuisine meal and diverse cultural programmes that transcended boundaries. The gathering celebrated the Independence Day festivities of India and Pakistan, and spread the message of inclusion, community, human values and community cohesion. The event was not only a social occasion but also a platform to promote mutual understanding and cultural appreciation. From the moment guests arrived, there was a palpable sense of connection and warmth.

The event began with a warm welcome note from Cllr Tom Aditya, Chairman of the Bristol Multi-Faith Forum, setting a gracious tone for the day. He welcomed all dignitaries, guests and artists and thanked all for their participation and contributions. He highlighted that this kind of a harmony buffet event embracing both Indian and Pakistani communities together is special and unique to Bristol. He emphasized the importance of welcoming diversity and working collaboratively to build stronger, more compassionate communities. The speech resonated deeply with attendees, many of whom found it to be both inspiring and timely. The guests and dignitaries were welcomed with welcome drinks and refreshments from 11 am, and was followed by melodic music and diverse cultural programmes, the multi-cuisine buffet lunch and inspiring messages from dignitaries.

The Harmony Buffet was a heartfelt gathering designed to celebrate diversity, foster inclusivity, and strengthen community bonds. Attended by His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant, the Indian and Pakistani High Commission officials, the Lord Mayor, the High Sheriff, the Metro Mayor, the Police and Crime Commissioner, MPs, the Police Chief, University Vice-Chancellors, Aldermen, councillors, civic officials, community leaders and individuals from various cultural, social, and professional backgrounds, the event highlighted the shared values that unite everyone in a spirit of unity and respect.

One of the highlights of the event was the lineup of cultural performances. From soulful musical renditions to energetic dance displays and poetic tributes, each act offered a glimpse into the richness of different cultures and traditions. A series of vibrant performances representing different cultures, including music, dance, and poetry also happened. The performances captivated the audience and underscored the central theme of harmony.

Guests were then treated to a diverse and delicious dinner menu that celebrated global cuisines. Each dish told its own story, further enriching the evening’s theme of unity through variety. Many guests given feedbacks of how much they enjoyed the multi-course meal featuring dishes from around the world, symbolizing culinary harmony.

The event honoured few of the community members who have contributed significantly to promote inclusivity, social cohesion and mutual respect. Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive. Many expressed appreciation for the inclusive atmosphere, inspiring content of the messages, the quality of performances, and the opportunity to engage with diverse perspectives.

The India and Pakistan friendship buffet has been transformed as a symbolic expression of the harmony and friendship that needs to exist between the Indian and Pakistan communities as well as amongst the Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, Christian, Jain, Bahai, Jewish, Buddhist, Parsi and other humanist faiths. August 14 marked Pakistan’s Independence Day and August 15 is the Indian Independence Day. Due to the trauma of partition and communal conflicts as well as the history of wars between both countries, there are tensions and misunderstandings between both communities worldwide. We need to alleviate such animosities and divisions amongst both communities at the grassroots level in the West of England region. Through this event, BMFF provides a platform for Indian and Pakistani communities in the West of England region to meet, enjoy, and spread the message of peace and harmony.

Adv. Tripti Megeri, Secretary of the Bristol Multi-Faith Forum thanked all people of goodwill for joining the friendship initiative and buffet lunch. She added that the Harmony Buffet successfully fulfilled its mission of bringing people together to celebrate unity and diversity. It served as a reminder that through mutual understanding and shared experiences, stronger and more compassionate communities can be built.

Bristol Multi-Faith Forum (BMFF) is an equality organisation instituted by the Bristol City Council in 2004 to lead inter-faith community cohesion and inter-cultural social harmony activities in the region and to promote community well-being. BMFF is active as an inter-faith community cohesion forum in the West of England region. This is the third year, BMFF is organising this India- Pakistan harmony series. Previous years’ harmony events were successful and we received appreciation from all over the UK. This is an opportunity for both Indian and Pakistani communities in the West of England region to come together and to grow their avenues of friendship. In previous years, Bristol Multi-Faith Forum has also been involved in arranging similar events with the Palestinian and Israeli communities and was successful in combating prejudice and spreading the message of harmony.

The Harmony Buffet was more than just a meal—it was a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when people come together with open hearts and minds. It served as an inspiring model for future community events aimed at bridging divides and nurturing a spirit of solidarity.

By all accounts, the Harmony Buffet fulfilled its mission and left a lasting impact on all who attended. In a time when unity is more important than ever, this event reminded us that harmony is not only possible—it is essential.

Some of the snaps from the event are in the BMFF Facebook link below: https://www.facebook.com/BristolMultiFaithForum/posts/pfbid0y9o4ED6yAkrT5QWgSH7T1u1ZSMJrqip77krTkeCUPBkgk6a6R12TYU57raz5L1SBl

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Event Information published on the 29th of June 2024

The Bristol Multi-Faith Forum (BMFF) in partnership with the Pakistan Association of Bristol (PAB) and the Indian Community of West of England (ICWE), is arranging a Harmony Summit with a multi-cuisine buffet lunch and diverse cultural programmes at Bristol ZaZa Bazaar Restaurant, Harbourside, Bristol (BS1 5UH) on Sunday, 18th of August 2024 from 10.45 am to celebrate the Independence Day festivities of India and Pakistan jointly and to spread the message of community cohesion. August is considered as the South Asian Heritage Month. The programme includes welcome drinks, refreshments, melodic music, diverse cultural programmes, multi-cuisine buffet lunch and inspiring messages from dignitaries. This harmony series is special and unique to Bristol and conveys the message of harmony to the rest of the world.

Bristol Multi-Faith Forum (BMFF) is an equality organisation instituted by the Bristol City Council in 2004 to lead inter-faith community cohesion and inter-cultural social harmony activities in the region and to promote community well-being. BMFF is active as an inter-faith community cohesion forum in the West of England region. This is the third year, BMFF is organising this India- Pakistan harmony series. Previous years’ harmony events were successful and we received appreciation from all over the UK. Again this year, BMFF provides a platform for both communities in the West of England region to come together and have an India-Pakistan Friendship Meal. In previous years, Bristol Multi-Faith Forum has also been involved in arranging similar events with the Palestinian and Israeli communities and was successful in combating prejudice and spreading the message of harmony.

The India and Pakistan friendship buffet is a symbolic expression of the harmony and friendship that needs to exist between the Indian and Pakistan communities as well as amongst the Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, Christian, Jain, Bahai, Jewish, Buddhist, Parsi and other humanist faiths. This programme will be attended by His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant, the Indian and Pakistani High Commission officials, the Lord Mayor, the High Sheriff, the Metro Mayor, the Police and Crime Commissioner, MPs, the Police Chief, University Vice-Chancellors, Aldermen, councillors, civic officials and community leaders. We thank all the dignitaries, civic officials, and community leaders for confirming attendance.

August 14 marks Pakistan Independence Day and August 15 is Indian Independence Day. Due to the trauma of partition and communal conflicts as well as the history of wars between both countries, there are tensions and misunderstandings between both communities worldwide. We need to alleviate such animosities and divisions amongst both communities at the grassroots level in the West of England region. Through this event, BMFF provides a platform for Indian and Pakistani communities in the West of England region to meet, enjoy, and spread the message of peace and harmony.

The venue, Zaza Bazaar Restaurant, Canon’s Road, Bristol (BS1 5UH), is an exciting 1000-seater multi-cuisine buffet restaurant that offers a world of culinary adventure with over 300 dishes across the globe and a wide variety of delicacies from different cuisines, especially from South Asian, Far East, Caribbean, Tex Mex, American and European food habits. You can choose from as many dishes and sweet treat desserts as much as you can enjoy. On Sundays, they have a special extra medley of exclusive ethnic dishes including Biriyani, Dosa, Uttapams, Cholle Poori, kadhi rice, Keema, rasam, all-day English breakfast and Sunday carvery. Also, the specialist chefs will cook the dishes of your liking at the live cooking stations too. There will be music and cultural programmes to enhance the harmonious spirit of the gathering. The welcome drink and refreshments will start at 10.45 am and the cultural activities will finish by 3 pm.

Bristol Multi Faith Forum (BMFF) cordially invites all people of goodwill to join the “Harmony Buffet Lunch” and to herald the message of peace and harmony amongst communities. We also provide free tickets to those who cannot afford to pay, if informed prior to 14th August. Right of admission is reserved. Please send your names via email to info@bristolmultifaithforum.org.uk, and book your seats soon. Grab the opportunity to book the seats as quickly as possible.

We thank all people of goodwill for joining this friendship initiative and buffet lunch. Our acknowledgement and gratitude to all. Let’s all be part of the message of harmony and friendship.

With warm regards,

Cllr Tom Aditya
Chairman, Bristol Multi-Faith Forum.

Mohindra Singh Chowdhry, Adv. Tripti Megeri,
Mohammed Arif Khan, Afzal Shah,
Mazhar Iqbal, Mrs Shehnaz Dar.
Facilitators- Harmony Buffet.

Bristol Multi-Faith Forum, 43 Ducie Road, Barton Hill, Bristol, BS5 0AX
Email: info@bristolmultifaithforum.org.uk
www.bristolmultifaithforum.org.uk