Hundreds of women and young girls came together for a yearly festival to honor friendship and sisterhood.

Registered charity Kent Saheli Group (KSG) hosted the Teeyan festival at New Tavern Fort in Gravesend.

Some of the dance performances on the day

Teeyan is a monsoon summer festival originating from the Punjab region of India.

Women and girls buy traditional clothes and shoes and get dressed up for an occasion filled with folk music and dance.

It was organised by five members of KSG: president Daya Kans, chairperson Manpreet Kingra, secretary Sandeep Khatkar, vice chairperson Kam Sandhu and treasurer Sharan Atwal.

Sandeep said: "The preparation for this day started in April and the performers have been practising weekly leading up to the event."

The gathering was not just for Punjabis, but for all women no matter their age, disability or race.

Mayor of Gravesham Cllr Peter Scollard also attended and watched the performances from the edge of the stage.

The day started with a speech from him.

Cllr Scollard said: "What a wonderful event, and such a rainbow of colour.

"It was amazing to see so many women out enjoying and supporting one another, and I sincerely hope this becomes an annual event at Fort Gardens.

"To see so many ladies coming together to celebrate the Teeyan festival and supporting each other is so important. Gravesend is an extremely diverse community and this event was not just visited by Asian woman but women of all cultures which continues to promote the cohesion within our community and it should be added to the annual events calendar."

The performances included traditional Giddha – a dance by women on special occasions – by Kent Saheli Group; Bollywood and classical dance by group Gurucool; Bhangara dance by Jugnu Bhangra; and folk songs performed by children.

Whilst the festivities were happening, there was a long queue for the food stand which included samosas, savoury chaat snacks, jalebis – an Indian sweet dish – and cool drinks.

Gravesham council, Kent Community Foundation, Kent Fire services, Kent Police and ellenor Hospice supported the event.