Edinburgh Diwali Reception at the Scottish Parliament
30th October 2024

On 30 October 2024, Ahalya Dance Academy had the distinct honour of performing at the Edinburgh Diwali Reception held at the Scottish Parliament, a prestigious event that brought together leaders and guests from both the Indian and Scottish communities, including members of the Scottish Cabinet.

The event was organised by the Edinburgh Diwali team, led by President Mr Rajnish Singh and his dedicated team, and served as a powerful symbol of light, unity, and the deep cultural bonds between India and Scotland.

Ahalya’s performance stood out for its uniqueness and artistic depth. The choreography, costumes, and use of traditional props were all carefully curated to reflect the richness of Indian classical dance. The presentation was not only visually striking but also emotionally resonant, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.
Among the distinguished guests were:
• The Honourable First Minister of Scotland, Mr John Swinney
• Minister Kaukab Stewart MSP
• Mr Foysol Choudhury MSP
• Mr Anas Sarwar MSP
• Mr Sidharth Malik, Consul General, Consulate General of India

During the event, Mr Anas Sarwar MSP personally expressed his admiration for the performance, noting how impressed he was with the expressive choreography and the dedication of the performers. His kind words were a proud moment for the academy and a testament to the impact of the performance.

It was a truly memorable evening for Ahalya Dance Academy—an opportunity to showcase Indian classical dance on a national platform, and to contribute to a celebration that honours cultural harmony, shared values, and the spirit of Diwali.