Lionel Blair, 88
Interview with Lionel Blair, 88
Published: 10 February 2017
I was deeply moved by the 6am ritual at the sea shore, where the families and priests pray for their departed loved ones.
Dancing legend, actor and entertainer Lionel came to the fore in the 1960s when, with his dance troupe, he appeared on television variety shows. He has appeared in a string of films, choreographed several films, written a musical, and hosted and appeared on a range of television programmes.
Despite being the oldest member of the group, Lionel says retirement is not a word in his vocabulary, and he refuses to give up work. He feels that he would take well to communal living but that he will miss his family and wife of 50 years.
Lionel is keen to go on a train journey to explore as much of India as possible. He is also looking forward to trying yoga, exploring religion, and perhaps even visiting a guru to get in touch with his spiritual side.
What were your first impressions of India?
My first impression, when we got to where we were staying, was shock and horror at the dirt and poverty. However after a few days I found it a wonderful place, the friendliness and happiness of the local people was infectious, and Dennis Taylor found a tailor who could copy a shirt or a pair of trousers in a day, which helped me with my shopping addiction!
Tell us about some of your favourite moments
The Indian wedding was fantastic. The music, decorations and excitement were all spectacular and we were made so welcome. We also went to a theatre performance with Indian actors which was amazing. On the way out I met an English couple who had come to India after seeing the Real Marigold Hotel series last year! I asked some ex-pats we met whether they thought of India now as home, or if 'home' was still England. They all told me that India is home for them now.
What did you learn from the experience?
All the different religions seem to live together in perfect peace and harmony. My favourite time was staying on a boat on Vembanad lake, it was so peaceful and quite beautiful. I was deeply moved by the 6am ritual at the sea shore, where the families and priests pray for their departed loved ones.
