On Monday, 1 June, during the inaugural edition of SXSW London 2026, the UK India Creative Circle (UKICC) was delighted to host a creative community showcase at UK House, presented by the Department for Business and Trade, in Shoreditch, London.

The event opened with an electrifying percussion performance by emerging artists Nish Raj on the Ghatam and Janan on Tabla. The duo delivered a captivating percussion cover of Ed Sheeran’s Sapphire—a brilliant example of contemporary UK music infused with Indian musical influences.

Following the performance, Dr. R. Sri Ram, Founder and Executive Chair of UKICC (UK-India Creative Circle), spoke about the vibrant and galvanised community that UKICC has built over the past year. Using the metaphor of a banyan tree, he described the organisation’s growing network of creative talent and businesses across the UK and India.

Guests were then treated to a series of video showcases highlighting the breadth and depth of the UKICC community. The presentations featured work from across music, creative production, film, architecture, interior design, photography, craft, fashion and more.

The audience included members of the UKICC community alongside talented businesses ranging from SMEs to major corporates from both the UK and India. Featured showcases included musical performances from the London Philharmonic Orchestra, Adrian Houston’s Faith in Trees, as well as contributions from the Crafts Council, British Council, Tiagi Productions, Talu Studios, Jag Sihra, Anayah Jewellery and many others.

The video presentations demonstrated both the appetite and the urgent need for meaningful business opportunities within the UK–India creative ecosystem. Guests commented on the importance of the platform in creating genuine commercial connections and enabling deal-making opportunities that help businesses grow.

The showcase was followed by a fireside chat moderated by Kapila Ireland, renowned journalist covering travel, luxury and retail, Editor of DFNI, and a UKICC Distinguished Press Partner.
Joining her on stage were Rupert Daniels, Director for Services at the UK Department for Business and Trade, and Dr. R. Sri Ram.

Rupert Daniels spoke about the importance of communities such as UKICC in supporting the mission of increasing trade between the UK and India. He highlighted that the value created extends beyond individual deals, encompassing employment opportunities in both countries and generating demand for the professional services that support growing creative businesses.

During the discussion, Kapila Ireland asked Dr Sri Ram about his vision for UKICC over the coming years. Returning to his banyan tree analogy, he expressed his desire for UKICC to continue growing while developing strong, dedicated verticals that support different sectors of the creative industries.

The evening concluded with networking among guests at the Sir Devonshire Hotel in Shoreditch, providing further opportunities for collaboration, conversation and connection.