Singer Venugopal Arrives in UK Ahead of BMCF Gala Night 2026; Preparations in Final Stages
Preparations for the much-anticipated BMCF Gala Night 2026 have entered their final phase, with renowned playback singer Venugopal arriving in the UK well in advance of the event. In light of ongoing flight disruptions, the singer chose to arrive a week early, reflecting his affection and commitment towards the British Malayali community.
This marks a rare and special occasion, as Venugopal returns to a British Malayali Charity after seven years. Notably, he becomes the first personality to attend the event twice as the chief guest. He was received at Heathrow Airport by Gala Night General Convenor Jomon Mammoottil, Bedford Marston Kerala Association President Eugene Thomas, along with Manoj Thomas and Rajesh Karunakaran, on behalf of the British Malayali Charity Foundation.
The grand event is set to take place at the Addison Centre in Bedford, where organisers are preparing to expect over a thousand attendees. Gates will open at 1:00 PM, with the official inauguration and cultural programmes commencing at 2:30 PM. The event is scheduled to conclude around 9:30 PM.
As part of the Gala Night, BMCF will honour outstanding individuals and organisations for their contributions to society across four award categories: Junior Rising Star of the Year, Community Impact Person of the Year (Senior Category), Malayali Organisation in Charity Activities, and UK Malayali Charity of the Year.
Award recipients include Dr Rajmohan Padmanabhan, a doctor and social worker from Glasgow; Joseph Jacob from Peterborough; Gangotri Skariah, a GCSE student from Loughborough (Junior category); and Shreya Sam, a primary school student from Derby.
Organisers have reiterated that the Addison Centre follows a strict no-alcohol policy. Attendees are requested not to consume alcohol within the premises or in the car park, as violations could result in heavy penalties for organisers.
Those who have not yet registered are encouraged to complete the Google Form to secure their seats.
https://forms.gle/LLk6j4TRTGPp2LRG8
Registration will help organisers arrange adequate seating and catering facilities.
Raffle Draw and Fundraising for Rankine Mathew Appeal
Adding further value to the evening, a raffle draw will be conducted during BMCF Gala Night 2026 in support of the ongoing Rankine Mathew Appeal. All proceeds from the raffle and related fundraising initiatives will go directly towards assisting Rankine in his recovery following a tragic accident.
An online meeting held on 23rd March, attended by trustees, advisory committee members, and the Bedford team, reviewed the final arrangements for the event. It was noted with appreciation that over 600 participants have already registered, reflecting strong community engagement and support.
In addition to the raffle draw, a dedicated charity stall will be set up at the venue to further support fundraising efforts for the appeal.
Raffle Prizes:
- First Prize: £100 voucher and two tickets to Jerry Amaldev’s “Aayiram Kannumayi” show in Leicester
- £100 Voucher sponsored by Muthoot Group
- Coffee machine from Joyce Caterers (Bedford)
- £200 worth of £50 *4 Vouchers from “The Houseboat” (Derby)
- Russell Hobbs Cook & Bake set sponsored by Friends Movers
The organisers sincerely encourage all attendees to participate in the raffle and contribute generously towards the cause.
With free entry and parking, along with an evening featuring music, recognition, and community engagement, BMCF Gala Night 2026, scheduled for March 28 in Bedford, is set to offer a meaningful and memorable cultural experience for attendees across the UK.