"He has been instrumental in shaping the Asian music scene"
Raghav will be headlining this year’s Diwali celebrations in Middlesbrough, bringing the multi-platinum recording artist to the town for a free festival featuring live music, dance performances and a Bollywood-themed fireworks display.
The artist is known for combining soulful vocals with Bollywood-inspired beats.
He will perform in Centre Square on October 31 as the headline attraction at the day-long event celebrating Diwali, the festival of light.
Kash Patel, producer of Diwali in Middlesbrough, said:
“Seldom do you witness an artist of Raghav’s calibre who can produce hit after hit which remain relevant and contemporary almost a quarter of a century on.
“He has been instrumental in shaping the Asian music scene around the world.
“I am super excited to be flying him all the way from his hometown in Canada to perform exclusively for the people of Middlesbrough.”
Raghav rose to fame with his 2004 album Storyteller, which featured hit singles including ‘Angel Eyes’, ‘So Confused’ and ‘Can’t Get Enough’.
The album helped bring South Asian music to a wider mainstream audience and earned the singer multiple awards, including a MOBO, two AMA’s and an Urban Music Award.
This year’s Diwali in Middlesbrough will begin at noon, with a full programme of entertainment planned throughout the day.
Visitors can enjoy live music, dance performances, street food, children’s activities, funfair rides and market stalls before the celebrations conclude with a Bollywood-themed fireworks display.
Described as a “multicultural extravaganza”, the event is free to attend, with no tickets required, making it an opportunity for families and visitors of all backgrounds to come together and celebrate.
Diwali is celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs and Jains around the world.
Known as the Festival of Light, the five-day celebration symbolises the triumph of good over evil and is marked by traditions that include lighting lamps, sharing food and spending time with family and friends.
Raghav’s Diwali performance in Middlesbrough marks a busy UK period for the singer.
He will perform at Thistle London Heathrow, Terminal 5 Hotel, for a New Year’s Eve celebration.
The New Year’s Eve Gala will bring together glamour, entertainment, music, culture and an extraordinary evening of celebrations.
Some of the features include dhol performances, a three-course dinner and a huge dancefloor.
