Dubai’s iconic Creek will come alive with a burst of colors, sounds, and flavors as the inaugural ‘India by the Creek’ festival descends upon Al Seef Park from March 8-10. With free admission for all, this cultural extravaganza, presented by Dubai Duty Free in collaboration with the Consulate General of India, Dubai and Teamwork Arts, heralds a new era of cross-cultural celebration and collaboration between India and the UAE.
Bridging Histories, Celebrating Connections
Rooted in the shared historical ties between India and the Emirates, ‘India by the Creek’ embodies the spirit of camaraderie and cultural exchange that defines the relationship between the two nations. Satish Kumar Sivan, Consul General of India in Dubai, highlights the significance of the event, emphasizing the deeper bonds of culture, diversity, and tolerance that unite the UAE and India beyond mere economic interests.
A Tapestry of Talent
Over three dynamic days, Dubai Creek will serve as the canvas for a vibrant tapestry of artistic expression, as artists from India and the UAE come together to showcase their creativity. From renowned musicians like Indian Ocean to esteemed writers such as Purushottam Agarwal and Navdeep Suri, the festival boasts an impressive lineup of performers who promise to captivate audiences with their talent and charisma.
Cultural Fusion, From Afternoon Till Night
From afternoon workshops to evening performances, ‘India by the Creek’ offers a diverse array of activities catering to all ages and interests. Sanjoy K Roy, Managing Director of Teamwork Arts, underscores the festival’s mission to forge deeper connections between India and Dubai, making it an annual highlight on the cultural calendar. With performances spanning across genres and disciplines, attendees can expect an immersive experience that celebrates the rich heritage and contemporary dynamism of both Indian and Emirati culture.
A Vision Realized
For Ramesh Cidambi, COO of Dubai Duty Free, and Ravi Menon, representing the festival’s local partner, the journey to bring ‘India by the Creek’ to fruition has been one of passion and dedication. As Cidambi reflects on the festival’s inception and its significance for Dubai Duty Free, Menon highlights the event’s role in capturing the complexities and contradictions of India, offering attendees a tantalizing glimpse into its diverse tapestry.
Embracing Diversity, Inspiring Unity
As ‘India by the Creek’ prepares to unfold its cultural extravaganza, it serves as a testament to the power of diversity in fostering understanding, collaboration, and unity. In a world where borders blur and cultures intermingle, events like these remind us of the beauty and richness that arise when we come together to celebrate our shared humanity.
Charles Irvin is a distinguished author known for his insightful contributions to Dubai Magazine. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Charles captures the essence of Dubai's vibrant culture, business landscape, and innovative spirit.