Rain, rhythm, and remarkable performances defined the closing day of the 9th India International Folk Festival at Central Park, Connaught Place this week. Despite Sunday morning showers, the audience’s energy remained undimmed, proving once again that folk music transcends weather and borders.

The festival brought together artists from around the world, showcasing everything from the royal melodies of Laos to the soulful drums of the Maldives, the elegance of Belarusian traditions, and the dynamic rhythms of Kazakhstan. The final evening became a living mosaic of global sound and movement, affirming that music and dance are a universal language of togetherness.

Organized by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), the festival opened on October 4 with a ceremony led by ICCR Director General K. Nandini Singla and Deputy Director General Manisha Swami. International dignitaries including the Ambassador of Armenia, Vahagn Afyan, and the Chargé d’Affaires of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Zozo Binti Josephine, were in attendance. Mrs. Singla emphasized the power of cultural diplomacy and people-to-people connections through art.

Over three days, Central Park became a vibrant stage for global folk, featuring performances from Kantera (Malta), Ziemia Bydgoska (Poland), Molmol Orchestra & Aalam Ensemble (Kyrgyzstan), and Folk Ceylonia (Sri Lanka). Distinguished guests such as H.E. Reuben Gauci, High Commissioner of Malta, and representatives from Sri Lanka and Poland witnessed the standing ovations that celebrated unity through folk music.

Even on the final day, light rain added a poetic charm rather than dampening spirits. Audiences embraced the weather, seated with umbrellas, as flutes, drums, and folk chants resonated across the park. The festival concluded with a Vote of Thanks from Ms. Swami and a felicitation ceremony honoring participating artists for their contribution to global friendship through art.

The 9th edition of the India International Folk Festival reaffirmed Delhi’s position as a cultural hub, where rain became the rhythm and a stage celebrated the world.