Festival Highlights Diverse Arts and Literature
Experience the vibrant celebration of South Asian cultures at the Safal Festival on 3rd May 2026. The event will take place at Castle Grand Community Hall, Castle Hill, NSW, from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Various activities are scheduled throughout the day, offering something for everyone.
This free festival showcases arts, culture, and literature from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan. Attendees can immerse themselves in art exhibitions, participate in hands-on workshops, and enjoy a literature and book fair. Notable features include a bazaar with trade stalls and cultural displays.
Ash Gholkar, the Founder and President of the Safal Festival, brings his passion for diversity and inclusion to the event. Creative writing sessions, craft making, and Japanese stitching Sashiko workshops aim to engage visitors of all ages. Interactive activities like painting and doll making encourage cultural appreciation.
The festival’s attractions include short film screenings in the main theatre from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM and a live song and dance concert starting at 6:30 PM. These performances showcase the rich cultural heritage of the South Asian region.
Notable Participants and Events
Dr. Rekha Rajvanshi, an award-winning bilingual author and poet, will lead a dynamic literary panel. Her anthology features Australian authors writing for an Indian and South East Asian audience. Joining her are author and journalist Anu Shivaram, publisher Dr. Sharon Rundle, and Susanne Gervay OAM.
Susanne Gervay OAM will highlight her works, such as ‘Parrot Palace’, developed with Bangladeshi-Australian illustrator Sarah Tabassum and Indian-Australian librarian Pooja Mathur. Their collaboration aims to encourage cultural appreciation among young readers.
Gervay’s book ‘Elephants Have Wings’, illustrated by Anna Pignataro, will be featured, emphasizing themes of inclusion and diversity. The book showcases the importance of understanding and respecting different cultures.
Join interactive sessions, including creative writing, craft making, painting, and Japanese stitching Sashiko. These activities are designed for all ages and aim to foster appreciation and understanding of diverse cultures.
Ash Gholkar, along with Kedar Pagaddinnimath, the Festival Chairperson, and Saliya Tennekoon, the Festival Director, invite everyone to participate in this unique cultural gathering. Their leadership ensures a comprehensive and engaging experience for all attendees.
For more details, contact Ash at 0425 377 572 or visit www.safalfest.com.
Last updated: 17 April 2026, 2:19 pm
