Celebrating South Asian Heritage through Summertime Raga

South Asian Heritage Month is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the rich cultural traditions, history and artistic legacy of South Asia. Among its greatest treasures is Indian classical music—an art form that has been nurtured and passed down through generations for thousands of years.

At the heart of this tradition is the raga. Far more than a musical scale, a raga is a melodic framework designed to evoke particular moods, emotions and even the changing seasons or times of day. Its origins can be traced back to the ancient Natya Shastra, a foundational Sanskrit treatise on music, dance and drama, reflecting a cultural heritage that continues to inspire audiences across the world today.

Our forthcoming Summertime Raga concert is a celebration of this living heritage. It offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty, depth and expressive power of Indian classical music while honouring a tradition that has flourished for centuries and continues to evolve through today’s performers.

As we mark South Asian Heritage Month, we invite you to join us in celebrating not only a remarkable musical tradition, but also the enduring cultural connections that music creates across communities and generations. Whether you are discovering Indian classical music for the first time or returning to a familiar sound, Summertime Raga promises an evening of artistry, reflection and shared cultural celebration in the beautiful surroundings of Elvaston Castle’s Old English Garden.

Event Information

Date & Time: Saturday, 4 July, 4.00–6.00 pm

Venue: Elvaston Castle Country Park, Borrowash Road, Elvaston, Derby DE72 3EP

Traditional Indian snacks, masala chai and coffee will be available during the interval. Please do not bring alcoholic drinks.

Suitable for ages 9 and above.

Concessions: Available for senior citizens and pensioners (66+), unpaid carers, children aged 10–17, and full-time students. Please bring a valid student card if claiming a student concession.

With limited capacity in this intimate garden setting, early booking is strongly recommended.

Find out more here: https://www.surtalarts.co.uk/event-details/summertime-raga