In an exciting cultural crossover, Scottish accordion player and vocalist Ruairidh Maclean, popularly known as RuMac, is all set to make his maiden voyage to India this December. The artist, famed for his anarchic blend of traditional Scottish folk and contemporary sounds, will perform at two prestigious events: the iconic Hornbill Festival in Nagaland and a special concert at the historic Tollygunge Club in Kolkata.
A Genre-Defying Artist Makes His Indian Debut
RuMac's first-ever performance in India promises to be a unique auditory experience. Hailing from Ullapool in Scotland, the musician describes himself as a "mad guy who plays the accordion and shouts a lot." His artistic journey began with traditional Scottish music before evolving into a unpredictable fusion that spans Gaelic songs and heavy metal rock. Audiences can expect a high-energy, genre-fluid performance where powerful storytelling meets raw musical energy.
Performance Schedule and Cultural Partnership
The musician's Indian tour is backed by a significant cultural partnership. RuMac will first take the stage at the Hornbill Festival in Nagaland, which runs from December 1 to 10, 2025. This year's edition is particularly notable as the United Kingdom is the country partner, underscoring the deepening cultural links between the UK and Nagaland. The British Council, which supports this performance, plays a key role in facilitating this artistic exchange.
Following his northeastern showcase, RuMac will head to Kolkata for a performance at the Tollygunge Club on December 4, 2025. This event is a collaborative presentation by the British Council and the Tollygunge Club, aiming to celebrate artistic mobility and cross-border cultural narratives.
Enthusiastic Responses from Organisers
Debanjan Chakrabarti, British Council director for East and Northeast India, expressed delight in welcoming RuMac. He highlighted that the artist's innovative yet tradition-rooted music embodies the creative exchange the Council champions. Similarly, Songit Bagrodia, President of the Tollygunge Club, stated the club was honoured to host RuMac's debut Indian showcase and anticipated an exceptional evening of music and cultural engagement.
RuMac himself shared his thrill about the upcoming visit, stating his eagerness to perform in a part of the world he's never visited before and to bring "a little bit of The Highlands of Scotland" to his audience in Kolkata.
This tour represents a vibrant moment of cultural diplomacy and artistic exploration, connecting Scottish highlands with the vibrant landscapes of Nagaland and Kolkata through the universal language of innovative music.
