by Soniya Basu | Jul 28, 2025 | Events
This summer, Edinburgh Fringe is turning up the volume and the laughs with a spectacular showcase of Indian comedy talent. In a bold cultural move, Soho Theatre is presenting 15 shows across 7 venues in the city, featuring some of the most vibrant voices straight from India’s comedy scene. Three standout acts promise to deliver big belly laughs, whip-smart wit, and uniquely desi perspectives: Prashasti Singh, Shamik Chakrabarti, and Urooj Ashfaq.
While you’re catching shows at the Fringe, explore more things to do in Edinburgh.
🌞 Prashasti Singh – Divine Feminine
📍 Bristo Square | ⏰ 8:45 PM | 30 Jul – 24 Aug
Fresh from the sets of Netflix’s Ladies Up and Amazon Prime’s Comicstaan, Prashasti Singh brings a power-packed set titled Divine Feminine. Expect sharp observations, unapologetic takes on gender, modern womanhood, and middle-class millennial desi dilemmas. Her voice is one of India’s most celebrated in stand-up, and this solo show promises sass, satire, and plenty of soul. With imagery evoking divine energy and 90s flair, she’s here to reclaim the feminine on her own terms and make you laugh doing it.
🪑 Shamik Chakrabarti – Despite Appearances
📍 Gilded Balloon at Appleton Tower – Eve | ⏰ 9:00 PM | 30 Jul – 24 Aug
A Fringe debut that’s got heads turning: Shamik Chakrabarti arrives with a dry wit and what Soho Theatre calls “laid-back rants.” Donning a kurta and seated cross-legged, his vibe is relaxed, but his punchlines pack heat. Whether he’s dissecting diaspora identity or deconstructing spiritual clichés, Shamik is the thinking person’s comic, equal parts hilarious and cerebral. This is one for fans of observational humor with a desi twist.
🎤 Urooj Ashfaq – How to Be a Baddie
📍 Monkey Barrel 4 | ⏰ 6:25 PM | 30 Jul – 24 Aug
Winner of Best Newcomer at the Edinburgh Comedy Awards 2023, Urooj Ashfaq returns to the Fringe with How to Be a Baddie. Wrapped in a pink dress and tangled in mic cords, Urooj’s visuals speak volumes like this isn’t your average “baddie” story. Known for her wild-eyed stage presence and electric delivery, she’s redefining Indian comedy for a global audience. Whether she’s poking fun at pop culture or diving into emotional realness, Urooj brings raw energy and unmatched timing.
🎟️ Book Now – Before They Sell Out!
All three shows run from 30 July to 24 August across Edinburgh Fringe’s top venues. With India’s best comic talent lighting up stages, this is your chance to witness a comedy renaissance rooted in heritage, identity, and good old-fashioned LOLs.
🔗 underbellyedinburgh.co.uk
🔗 gildedballoon.co.uk
🔗 monkeybarrelcomedy.com
Don’t forget to check our Events Calendar for more South Asian-led performances in Scotland.
For British South Asians, these shows are more than entertainment. They are cultural catharsis. For everyone else? A hilariously eye-opening glimpse into the nuances of modern India. Whether you’re craving satire, self-deprecating humour, or sharp feminist takes, this Fringe, India’s funniest are ready to deliver. Don’t miss them.
by Soniya Basu | Jun 11, 2025 | Events
If you’re looking for the perfect summer vibe—think dreamy skies, Instagram-worthy moments, and non-stop music—then the Manchester Hot Air Balloon Festival 2025 should be at the top of your bucket list. Set in the heart of Heaton Park, this epic weekend event combines balloon magic and music festival energy, creating an unforgettable experience for the ScottishIndian community. Whether you’re Desi by roots, Scottish by postcode, or somewhere beautifully in between, this festival is tailor-made for your vibrant, adventurous lifestyle.
What’s the Buzz About the Manchester Balloon & Music Festival?
Running from July 18 to 20 at Heaton Park, the Balloons & Beats Festival 2025 is set to be Manchester’s ultimate fusion of culture, color, and community. Picture this: giant hot air balloons floating across the skyline while live DJs drop beats below. It’s giving “Desi Day Out meets British Summer Time.”
With activities ranging from dawn balloon launches to late-night dance tents, there’s something for everyone—families, friend squads, couples, and solo explorers. And yes, there will be plenty of global street food options (chai, chaat, or churros—pick your poison).The Manchester Hot Air Balloon Festival 2025 isn’t just a photo-op—it’s a celebration of community, music, and Desi culture in the heart of Manchester.
Why ScottishIndian Vibes Belong at UK Summer Festivals
At ScottishIndian.com, we’re all about spotlighting cultural crossovers, and this event is exactly that. The balloon fest is more than just visuals—it’s a celebration of diverse music, food, and people. Expect everything from Afrobeat to Bollywood remixes, vegan biryani to wood-fired pizza. It’s the multicultural magic that makes the UK such a vibe—and we’re here for it.
Plus, festivals like these offer the perfect space for young British Indians and Scots-Indians to reconnect with their identity while making new memories with their chosen families.
Insider Tips (Because We’ve Got You)
Here’s how to make the most of your Balloons & Beats 2025 weekend:
- Arrive early for balloon launches (they usually take off at sunrise).
- Carry a picnic blanket + power bank (because battery anxiety is real).
- Support local Desi vendors—check the food market lineup in advance, you might find hidden gems from Glasgow to Leicester.
- Dress for the gram—you’ll want flowy fits, comfy shoes, and that windproof things.
And don’t forget to tag us in your pics @ScottishIndianUK and use #ScottishIndianVibes for a chance to get featured on our site!
How to Travel to Manchester for the Balloon Festival 2025
Heaton Park is easily accessible via Manchester Metrolink, and there’s ample parking nearby. If you’re coming from Scotland, book advance train tickets via Edinburgh or Glasgow and make it a weekend getaway with your gang.
🎉 Looking for more UK-based cultural events? Check out our Events section for Desi-friendly happenings across the UK.
In a world where adulting is exhausting, events like Manchester’s Hot Air Balloon Festival 2025 offer that perfect mix of escape and expression. Whether you’re vibing solo, bringing your fam, or planning a Desi-style reunion, this festival is your moment.
Follow ScottishIndian.com for more updates, travel tips, and event guides tailored to British Indian life. Because we don’t just attend events—we elevate them with our style, spirit, and spice. 🌶️
