Meet a hero of Indian legend at the Royal Armouries this September

On the 15 and 16 September the Royal Armouries Museum in Leeds will hosting an action-packed themed weekend spotlighting a hero of Indian legend.

The event will explore the story of Arjuna, the central character of the ancient Indian poem, The Mahabharata. Arjuna is famed as a talented archer and the son of the Indian god, Indra. The weekend is part of the museum’s wider Legends series of events, exploring mighty and mysterious warrior legends from cultures around the world through storytelling, performances, combat demonstrations, objects in the Royal Armouries collections, music, film and activities for all ages.
South Asian Arts UK (SAA) and the Royal Armouries interpreters will be providing a number of exciting activities, including dancing inspired by martial arts, Indian storytelling, early year’s activities, crown making crafts and dramatic performances unearthing the life of Arjuna.

On the 15 September there will also be a special evening storytelling event, especially for adults. From 5 pm, join award-winning storyteller Peter Chand for an imaginative, thoughtful and lively set of stories from India. Peter will recount the part the gods played in helping Arjuna forge his supreme skills, how a cunning Krishna revealed a warrior’s weak spot, and a battle between the elements themselves for ultimate devotion. Tickets for ‘Moon and Fire’ can be purchased through Eventbrite.

Other upcoming events in the Legends series include weekends inspired by the King of Norway who battled for the English throne Harald Hardrada (13 & 14 October), fierce Celtic Queen Boudicca (24 & 25 November) and legendary leader of medieval myth King Arthur (29 – 31 December).

Commenting on Legends: Arjuna, Mark Jackson, Events and Informal Learning Manager, said: “The legend of Arjuna is hugely celebrated in Indian culture, with his story being passed down generations. The weekend will take inspiration from Indian legend and tradition, drawing on objects and themes in the Royal Armouries collections. Visitors will be immersed in Arjuna’s story, with opportunities to see dramatic performances, combat and dance demonstrations, as well as getting stuck in with crafts and much more.”

Ends……

Tickets for the evening story telling ‘Moon and Fire’ can be purchased online.

For event updates follow:

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Notes to editors
Further enquiries to: Katie Canning, Communications Officer. Email: katie.canning@armouries.org.uk, telephone: 0113 220 1978