Gig on the Green, a cultural music evening hosted by the Australian High Commission in India, brought contemporary Australian sounds to life at the Australian High Commissioner’s residence in New Delhi on 13 February 2026.
The performance featured two Australian artists of Indian heritage, Reuben de Melo and Milan Ring, offering a night that blended modern Australian music with personal cultural influences rooted in India. Set against an intimate outdoor backdrop, the event created space for music, conversation and cultural connection, drawing guests into an evening shaped by both artistry and shared heritage.
Reuben de Melo, originally from Goa and now based in Perth, is the winner of The Voice Australia 2024. His set included a mix of original material alongside a rendition of the Bollywood classic Give Me Some Sunshine from 3 Idiots. The choice of song struck a familiar note with the audience, highlighting how artists can move naturally between cultures through music.
Milan Ring, a Sydney-born multi-instrumentalist and producer with Indian roots through her mother’s side, performed several unreleased tracks and showcased her genre-blending style. Known for combining soulful vocals with layered electronic production, Ring’s performance reflected the evolving sound of Australia’s music scene, where diverse influences often sit side by side.
Australian High Commissioner Philip Green attended the event and spoke about the value of cultural exchange in strengthening ties between India and Australia. He noted that with more than a million people of Indian origin living in Australia, now the country’s fastest-growing community, artistic collaborations such as Gig on the Green help deepen understanding beyond economic and strategic partnerships.
The evening also pointed to the role of the arts in diplomacy, offering a reminder that cultural engagement often builds connections in ways that formal dialogue cannot. Events like this, centred on creativity and shared experiences, contribute to a broader relationship that includes people, communities and stories as much as policy.
Gig on the Green ultimately served as a celebration of contemporary Australian music infused with Indian heritage, highlighting the vibrant cultural bridge between the two nations and the growing presence of artists who reflect both worlds with ease.
Maria Irene is India Correspondent for The Indian Sun, reporting on technology, finance, culture, and diaspora stories across India and Australia, with a special focus on the Australian Consulate’s initiatives in India
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