Wednesday, March 23 2005 17:24 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

London: Unfazed by the cancellation of his visa by the US Government and subsequent storm over the issue, Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi is arriving in London on Friday (Mar 25, 2005) to attend the March 26 'Vibrant Gujarat' celebrations amidst signs of brewing protests in the UK.

Even as the Asian Music Circuit, organisers of the event at the Royal Albert Hall in London are busy giving finishing touches, South Asia Solidarity Group, AWAAZ and other organisations today (Mar 23, 2005) announced their decision to organise protests outside the venue.

"South Asia Solidarity Group and other organisations will be organising protests outside 'Vibrant Gujarat', at the Royal Albert Hall, London," the organisations, which have been relentlessly campaigning against Modi since the 2002 Gujarat riots, said in a statement.

Modi was denied a visa to the US "because of his role in the 'infringement of religious freedom'," the statement said.

"Ostensibly he is coming to attract British-based business to invest in Gujarat; but he will also be using the trip to gather support and funds from pro-Hindutva organisations in Britain and to receive congratulations from these organisations, who regard him as a 'hero'," it said.

Well-known folk singer Praful Dave and percussionist Trilok Gurtu and Sandeep Raval will be performing at the 'Vibrant Gujarat' event to be compered by Harish Bhimani.