Duke, Duchess prepare to start their India, Bhutan tour

Announced during Prime Minister Modi’s visit to the UK late last year, this tour builds on the strong bonds between the two countries.

While in India they will experience the four passions which unite the country - cricket, Bollywood, politics and family.

On Sunday they will head to the Oval Maidan to watch and take part in a cricket match between beneficiaries and representatives of three charities based in Mumbai – Magic Bus, Doorstep, and India’s Childline.

On Sunday evening they will attend a glittering reception and dinner alongside some of the biggest names in business and Bollywood, to celebrate Mumbai’s film and creative industries. The reception is being hosted by The British High Commission in partnership with The British Asian Trust, of which The Prince of Wales is founder and President.

On Monday they will make their way to the capital, Delhi, where they will pay respect to India’s military contributions, honour the memory of Mahatma Gandhi, and also to get to know the men and women who lead the country in government and politics. 

British High Commissioner to India, Dominic Asquith KCMG, said:“The Duke and Duchess are most excited about their first visit to India, and we hope this visit will mark the start of a long friendship between them and this magnificent and diverse country."

“They are embarking on a packed, varied and exciting programme where they will gain an understanding of modern India – a vibrant, entrepreneurial, aspirational nation that faces both its challenges and huge opportunities with confidence,"  Dominic said.

“This will be the one of the most ambitious tours Their Royal Highnesses have ever undertaken and promises to be the most colourful tour to date. It will cover five distinct locations over six days across four regions of India and a visit to the remote and beautiful Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan,"  Dominic said.