On 19 October 2024, Ahalya Dance Academy had the honour of performing at the 30th Anniversary of the Dussehra Celebrations at Calton Hill, one of Edinburgh’s most iconic and scenic landmarks. Organised by the Scottish Indian Arts Forum (SIAF), this grand cultural event brought together a large and diverse audience to celebrate the spirit of Dussehra through music, dance, and community festivities.

Ahalya’s team presented a vibrant performance of Kavadi Chinthu, a devotional dance piece known for its rhythmic grace and expressive storytelling. The choreography was warmly received, with the audience offering special compliments for the colourful traditional costumes, which added to the visual richness of the performance. The presentation reflected the academy’s commitment to authenticity, creativity, and cultural expression.
Performing at Calton Hill was a truly memorable experience. The clear skies and unusually pleasant October weather made the day even more enjoyable, something rarely expected in Edinburgh at that time of year. After the performance, some of our dancers took the opportunity to explore the historic site and captured joyful moments posing near the iconic pillars of the National Monument, adding a fun and personal touch to the day.
This event was a wonderful opportunity for Ahalya Dance Academy to showcase Indian classical dance to a wide and appreciative audience, and to be part of a celebration that honours cultural diversity and artistic heritage in the heart of the city.