The Aussie art Alliance

The Festival of India in Australia looks to bring the two nations closer.

- Anirudh Madhavan/Sydney And Melbourne

Aman in a lungi strummed his guitar and asked the audience to repeat the lyr-ics—Lokada kaalaji mada-theenanti, ningyaar byaadantaara madappa china (Don't worry, be happy. But if you want to worry, I don't give a damn). The Kannadigas in the crowd joined in; the Australians tried in earnest. Then came the guitar riff, and the listeners raised their hands, making waves and unleashing applause. Over the course of half a dozen songs, interspersed with ambitious dance moves and wisecracks, Raghu Dixit and his band of merry men enthralled the Sydney Opera House. After the final bow, they capped off the night with a selfie and a promise to meet everyone outside.

Men in lungis might seem incongruous with the hallowed arts centre. But that is the essence of Confluence—The Festival of India, which celebrates Indian arts and culture, from August 15 to November 8, across seven Australian cities. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced the festival during his visit to Australia in 2014 and, in July this year, the Australian government announced 250,000 dollars to support it. The aim of the festival was to improve bilateral relations between the countries and to foster people to people connections. On board were India's culture ministry, the Indian Council for Cultural Relations and the Indian High Commission in Australia, along with sponsors, including the Australian government. Delhi-based Teamwork Arts handled the production of the event.

On September 18, at a gala event at the Sydney Opera House, Union Culture Minister Mahesh Sharma said: "It is a proud moment for both nations and we should celebrate India-Australia relations in a big way. It is cultural bonds that build solid bridges of friendship and understanding. It is our hope that this event promotes better understanding among the various communities.”

The tickets for the gala event—1,800—were sold out in 15 minutes.