Multicultural: Monsoon Mela

A Celebration of South Asian Culture, Creativity & Community 

Monsoon Mela Festival is a celebration of belonging and cultural exchange transforming Gosford’s William Street Plaza into a vibrant celebration of culture, colour, music, food and connection. 

Special Guest performer - Nepali Idol Aadesh Poudel and his band bringing Gosford local community in one unforgettable experience. 

Inspired by the energy and abundance of the monsoon season. The cultural day the festival brings together artists, performers and local communities. 

Supporting the Nepal Flood Disaster Appeal

As part of Monsoon Mela, we invite our community to support the Nepal Flood Disaster Appeal, raising funds for the Emergency Action Alliance (EAA) and its member charities working with local partners on the ground in Nepal. Following the catastrophic flooding on the Nepal and Tibet border, thousands of people have been displaced and are in urgent need of food, clean water, shelter, medical assistance and financial support. Throughout the event, our volunteers will be circulating with donation buckets, and we encourage everyone to give what they can. Every contribution will help the Emergency Action Alliance deliver vital humanitarian aid to affected families and communities. Please keep an eye out for our volunteers and join us in supporting this important relief effort.

Monsoon Mela Performer Line-up

Special guest performer Aadesh Poudel is an acclaimed Nepali singer-songwriter and former Nepal Idol contestant. Known for his powerful vocals and heartfelt performances, Poudel has built a devoted following across Nepal and Australia. Performing with his band, he brings a blend of contemporary and acoustic influences that promise to captivate audiences and bring the community together through music.

Project Beyond is an Australia-based ensemble and creative platform that explores identity, culture, wellbeing and human connection through music. Bringing together international artists from diverse backgrounds, the group blends Nepali folk traditions, Hindustani classical music and contemporary rock, creating a unique and immersive live experience that bridges cultures and generations.

Acclaimed sitarist and educator Rishta Dyall brings more than a decade of experience in Hindustani classical music. Holding a Master of Philosophy in Performing Arts from Delhi University, she has performed extensively in Mauritius and New South Wales. Her performances blend the rich traditions of Indian classical music with contemporary influences, showcasing the expressive beauty and intricate artistry of the sitar.

VBM's 3-Piece Live Bollywood Band delivers an energetic and soulful live music experience featuring Bollywood, Punjabi, Sufi, Indian classics and contemporary favourites. Combining talented vocalists and musicians, the ensemble creates the atmosphere of a modern Indian celebration, inviting audiences to sing, dance and connect through music.

Sydney Bollywood is one of Australia's leading Bollywood dance companies, welcoming people of all ages, abilities and cultural backgrounds to experience the joy of Bollywood dance. Known for vibrant performances and an inclusive community spirit, Sydney Bollywood will present a special dance showcase and host a free Mini Bollywood Dance Class from 2.30pm to 3pm, giving festival goers the chance to learn some moves and join the fun.

Solanki Das is an Indian creative and contemporary dancer, choreographer and founder of Rhythmic Soul Dance Academy. Having performed across India, New Zealand and Australia, Solanki blends traditional Indian dance with contemporary movement practices to create performances that celebrate culture, storytelling and creative expression.

Community Group India National Anthem Dance, will present a vibrant traditional Indian dance performance featuring the colourful costumes, music and sounds of  India. This exciting performance celebrates our nation’s rich cultural diversity and the spirit of unity that brings people from different cultures and backgrounds together. Through music and dance, we aim to showcase the beauty of Indian culture while celebrating multiculturalism, inclusion and the wonderful diversity of our community.

Special Activities

Henna Artist

Festival-goers can experience the beauty of traditional South Asian body art with a Henna Artist available from 1pm to 3pm.

Mini Bollywood Dance Class

Join Sydney Bollywood for a free interactive Mini Bollywood Dance Class from 2.30pm to 3pm in the Funhaus Factory, perfect for beginners, families and anyone wanting to experience the energy and joy of Bollywood dance firsthand.

FREE EVENT - ALL WELCOME

Monsoon Mela is a vibrant celebration of South Asian culture, creativity and community featuring live music, dance, food, cultural experiences and family-friendly activities in the heart of Gosford.

This program is proudly brought to you by Central Coast Council and funded by the NSW Government Social Cohesion Grants for Local Government. We're better together.

Designed to welcome all communities and encourage participation across a day of live entertainment and cultural discovery, family-friendly activities, and delicious food experiences,

Monsoon Mela celebrates diversity while creating opportunities for people to gather, connect and share stories. 

Festival highlights 

• Live music and special guest performances 

• Dance, DJ and drumming 

• Family-friendly entertainment 

• South Asian Street food.

This project is delivered in partnership with Central Coast Council and proudly funded by the NSW Government through the NSW Social Cohesion Grants for Local Government