SAFAL 2026 Celebrates South Asian Rhythm, Word, and Movement in Australia-by Sheyana La Brooy
The South Asian Film Arts and Literature (SAFAL) Festival returned for its ninth year in 2026 as a vibrant celebration of South Asian culture, bringing together music, literature, dance, and storytelling into one dynamic festival experience. SAFAL celebrates the rich cultural heritage of countries across the South Asian region including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Maldives, Pakistan, Sri Lanka. The festival held on 3 May at Castle Hill in New South Wales, highlights both the diversity of these cultures and most importantly the deep historical connections that bind them together.
Festival‑goers enjoyed a full day of engaging attractions. Art and craft workshops for all ages invite participants to learn traditional skills and modern artistic practices passed down through generations. Food stalls highlight the rich flavours of South Asia, offering popular street foods fused with Western flavours that reflect stories of migration and belonging. Ethnic wear stalls add colour and vibrancy, celebrating traditional textiles, garments and craftsmanship while connecting contemporary audiences with cultural heritage.
Literature and poetry form an important heart of SAFAL, carrying forward the intellectual legacy of modern historical figures such as India’s first Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore. One of South Asia’s most influential cultural voices in modern times, Tagore’s work transcended national borders, he authored India’s national anthem, Jana Gana Mana, and Bangladesh’s Amar Shonar Bangla, and his travels across the region, including to Sri Lanka, shaped cultural and philosophical exchange. SAFAL continues to honour the shared intellectual, religious, and cultural legacy of the region through poetry recitals, music and discussions that explore South Asia as an interconnected cultural space.
SAFAL also provides a safe and inclusive platform for migrant stories in Australia. Through spoken word, creative writing workshops, music and informal conversation, participants share experiences of migration, identity and belonging. These stories are especially powerful for new migrants and young Australians of South Asian heritage, offering connection, understanding, and pride in cultural roots.
Music and dance performances are central to the festival, uniting audiences through classical, folk, and contemporary expressions. From intricate footwork to flowing costumes, performances celebrate tradition while embracing modern creativity. Many of the performers demonstrate to younger generations how to balance their academic and professional lives in Australia, whilst preserving their inherited cultural identify through the performing arts. The presence and support of local and state political leaders, including The Hon. Mark Robert Buttigieg MLC, Parliamentary Secretary for Industrial Relations, Parliamentary Secretary for Work Health and Safety, and Parliamentary Secretary for Multiculturalism and Mark Hodges MP, Member for Castle Hill, alongside respected community elders, reflect SAFAL’s growing recognition as an important community event in New South Wales.
More than an event, SAFAL is a welcoming space where culture is shared, traditions are honoured and communities come together. For Sri Lankans, South Asians, and the wider Australian community alike, SAFAL offers a joyful and enriching forum to celebrate shared histories and see them woven into Australia’s multicultural future.
To view images from the 2026 SAFAL Festival and see upcoming Sri Lankan community events in New South Wales visit www.slansw.org.au
By Sheyana La Brooy (Lead, Education and Engagement Subcommittee, Sri Lanka Association of New South Wales).
