Indian Summerfest brought colour and song to Kilcullen

A COLOURFUL and musical Summer Fest 2026 held at Kilcullen Community Centre was a vibrant celebration of music, song, and inclusivity that brought together many members of the Indian community from across Co Kildare. 

Organised by Kildare United Indians for Social Harmony & Integration (Kushi), guests enjoyed a variety of authentic Indian cuisines and explored cultural stalls inside the centre, creating a lively and festive atmosphere throughout the day.

In addition to dance, music, and song performances by children and adults from the Indian community, the event also featured a unique fusion of Irish and Indian dance, thanks to a collaboration between Jyoti Aravindhan Goswami's Attami School of Dance and a group of Irish dancers brought by Cllr Tracey O'Dwyer.

In her capacity as Leas-Cathaoirleach of Kildare County Council, cllr Tracey O'Dwyer thanked the organisers for inviting her, saying there's no better way to bring people together than through music, dance, song, and food. 

Cllr Peggy O'Dwyer, who was involved in the original establishment of Kushi, also attended the event. 

Both local representatives participated in the traditional lighting of a symbolic lamp to begin the proceedings.

The Indian community in Co Kildare has grown in recent years, notably as professionals in the healthcare and IT areas. 

Its presence has been marked since 2018 by celebrations of the Deepavali and Spring festivals, and participation in events including the St Patrick's Day parade in Newbridge, June Fest, and the Newbridge Dance Festival.