On 15 August 2024, Ahalya Dance Academy was honoured to be part of the 78th Independence Day celebrations of India, hosted by the Consulate General of India in Edinburgh. The event took place at the Consulate premises on Rutland Square, bringing together members of the Indian community, dignitaries, and cultural enthusiasts to celebrate this important national occasion.

The celebration was hosted by Mr Azad Singh, Acting Consul General, and was graced by distinguished guests including Shri Ravi Krishnan, Honourable Member of Parliament from the Gorakhpur (Uttar Pradesh, India) constituency, and His Excellency Lord Provost Mr Robert Aldridge.

As part of the cultural programme, Jiji Rajagopal, Director of Ahalya Dance Academy, presented a Mohiniyattam performance choreographed to the patriotic song Vande Mataram. Her graceful and expressive presentation was deeply appreciated by the audience. In addition, students of the academy performed Bharatanatyam, showcasing the elegance, discipline, and cultural richness of Indian classical dance.

The performances were a tribute to India’s artistic heritage and were praised for their authenticity and emotional depth. It was a proud moment for the academy to represent Indian classical dance at such a meaningful and prestigious event.
Multicultural Event at Lauriston Castle On 14 September 2024, Ahalya Dance Academy was invited to perform at a vibrant Multicultural event hosted at the scenic Lauriston Castle, an event organised by African Connections CIC. Set amidst the castle’s lush gardens and historic charm, the event brought together communities from across Edinburgh to celebrate cultural diversity through music, dance, and shared traditions.

Ahalya Dance Academy proudly represented Indian classical dance, offering a captivating performance that highlighted the elegance and expressive power of Bharatanatyam. The dancers, adorned in colourful traditional costumes, brought the stage to life with rhythmic precision and storytelling, creating a truly immersive experience for the audience. The performance was widely appreciated for its authenticity and visual richness, adding a unique dimension to the celebration of global cultures.

The event held special significance for the Malayali members of the Ahalya team, as it coincided with Onam, the harvest festival celebrated by Malayalis around the world. Despite having to postpone their personal celebrations to later in the day, the team embraced the opportunity to perform with joy and pride. Sharing their cultural heritage with a diverse audience on such a meaningful day made the experience even more memorable.
Beyond the performance, the event offered a wonderful platform for cultural exchange and community connection. The Ahalya team enjoyed engaging with fellow performers and attendees, fostering a spirit of unity and mutual appreciation.

The celebration at Lauriston Castle was not just a performance opportunity, but a moment of joy, pride, and cultural harmony, and Ahalya Dance Academy was honoured to be part of it.