Celebrate South Asian Culture at Chicago’s 3rd Annual Summer Mela on July 12, 2025
Chicago’s vibrant cultural calendar gets a colorful boost this summer as the 3rd Annual Summer Mela, presented by the Kalapriya Center for Indian Performing Arts, returns on Saturday, July 12, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Chicago Women’s Park and Gardens (1801 S. Indiana Ave). This free, family-friendly South Asian festival celebrates the rich artistic traditions of the Indian subcontinent through live music, dance, food, and hands-on activities for all ages.
Headlined by Funkadesi and Featuring Diverse Live Performances
The 2025 Summer Mela will be headlined by Chicago’s beloved funk fusion group, Funkadesi, known for their unique blend of reggae, funk, and Indian rhythms. Joining them on stage are other standout acts including:
- Do The Needful, a high-energy Indian pop band
- Nizami Qawwali, a Sufi ensemble from Austin, Texas
- The Swamanathans, performing timeless romantic songs from 84 years of Bollywood film history
Whether you’re a longtime fan of South Asian music or simply looking for an exciting way to spend a Saturday in Chicago, the Summer Mela offers something for everyone.
💃 Showcasing South Asian Dance from Across the Diaspora
In addition to music, the Summer Mela will spotlight a stunning lineup of dance performances that showcase the regional diversity of South Asia. Highlights include:
- A vibrant Bollywood dance showcase
- Traditional South Indian Christian dance Margom Kali
- The captivating Muslim wedding dance known as Oppana
- A special presentation by Kalapriya’s own Bharatanatyam students
- A dynamic opening performance by Chicago Kalakshetra
These performances reflect the festival’s goal of creating community through the performing arts, and offering authentic cultural experiences to Chicagoans of all backgrounds.
🍛 Taste the Flavors of South Asia
Festival-goers will also enjoy a delicious selection of South Asian cuisine, featuring regional dishes and street food favorites. From savory bites to sweet treats, the culinary offerings are sure to transport visitors straight to the streets of Delhi, Lahore, Colombo, and Dhaka.
In addition to food, the festival includes a bustling bazaar-style marketplace with retail vendors, independent artisans, and cultural merchandise—offering a perfect opportunity to shop for handcrafted goods and unique gifts.
🎨 Hands-On Fun for Kids and Families
The Summer Mela is a true community celebration, designed for all ages. Kids and adults alike can participate in interactive arts and crafts, henna painting, and educational workshops led by local artists and cultural organizations.
Admission is free and open to the public, with a suggested donation of $15 per person to help support Kalapriya’s ongoing community programming.
🕊️ About Kalapriya Center for Indian Performing Arts
Founded in 1994, the Kalapriya Center for Indian Performing Arts is a Chicago-based nonprofit dedicated to preserving and promoting the artistic heritage of South Asia. Through classes, performances, school partnerships, and public events, Kalapriya aims to build cross-cultural understanding and foster ahimsa—the Hindu value of love, compassion, and nonviolence toward all living beings.
“We are so proud to be presenting our 3rd Annual Mela,” says Dr. Mridu Sekhar, President of Kalapriya’s Board of Directors. “This festival allows us to share the incredible richness of South Asian culture—its dance, food, music, and traditions—with the people of Chicago. Each year, the event grows in scope and community impact. 2025 is shaping up to be our best festival yet!”
📍 Event Details
What: 3rd Annual Summer Mela
When: Saturday, July 12, 2025 | 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Where: Chicago Women’s Park and Gardens, 1801 S. Indiana Ave, Chicago, IL
Admission: Free (Suggested donation of $15)
Website: https://kalapriya.org
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