PROMOTING peace was all part of Indian Union Oxford's celebrations to mark the independence from British rule 60 years ago.
But 1947 was marked by violence and bloodshed as the sub-continent went through the partition process which created the modern nations of India and Pakistan.
To help bridge the divide and foster greater understanding of different religious beliefs, the Oxford event at the Cheney School in Headington on Saturday included an inter-faith gathering.
Christians, Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jews and members of the Baha'i faith all came together to talk. Reflecting India's colour and beauty, performers from Sapna and Friends delighted onlookers with traditional dances.
Union president Chinta Kallie said: "It was very heartening to see this gathering of people to promote peace throughout the world. We have a very rich heritage in India and need to maintain the traditions."
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