Kabir Bedi remembers meeting the King as he celebrates the birthday of King Charles III in Mumbai

The British Deputy High Commission in Mumbai hosted the King’s Birthday Party (KBP) recently, marking the birthday of King Charles III and celebrating the enduring partnership between the United Kingdom and India.

The annual event serves as the UK government’s National Day celebration across British missions worldwide. While the King’s official birthday is observed on June 20, his actual birthday falls on November 14.Addressing guests, Harjinder Kang, His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for South Asia and British Deputy High Commissioner for Western India, described the celebration as an opportunity to honour both the King’s values and the growing momentum in bilateral ties.

“The King’s Birthday Party is essentially the UK’s National Day. It is an opportunity to celebrate the deep and enduring relationship between the UK and India — from our landmark trade deal and strengthening business partnerships to the remarkable people-to-people connections that span generations.

Three new films by Yash Raj Films are going to be shot in the UK. We’ve facilitated visits and shoots in London for Indian actors.

The ties existed earlier as well, but now they have accelerated significantly,” he said.Among those in attendance were fashion designer Maheka Mirpuri, cricketer Ajinkya Rahane and veteran actor Kabir Bedi. Bedi shared a personal connection to the occasion. “Celebrating the King’s birthday feels special because I have met him personally at the world premiere of the James Bond film Octopussy. He and PrincessDiana met the cast, and we had a wonderful interaction before watching the film,” he said.