Who is Kultar Ahluwalia?
This is an ever-evolving question across the lifespan… as of this moment, I’m a father, husband, son, independent artist, arts worker, workshop facilitator, registered occupational therapist and fan of being in bed before 9pm to watch sitcoms.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
As a child I always wanted to be a writer and work in film. I ended up being a storyteller but more in the mediums of music, poetry and live performance. So maybe I’d work in film? Maybe I’ll make a sitcom!
Who inspires you and why?
Inspiration comes from so many different places. I feel like I go through different periods of time where I’m soaking all of the inputs and absorbing inspiration from the world and then there will be an explosion of creative output. But to go a bit more inward, the greatest inspiration comes from watching my daughter learn and grow and the influence this has on me to be the best version of myself.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I feel very privileged in my working life to have generally always been in work that is in service to others or helping people, whether that’s been as an Occupational Therapist or in the arts in workshop facilitation, mentoring, helping with development programs like Interplay at Nexus Arts. And all of that has been a conscious decision. I hope that all of this is making some little positive difference in the world and having a ripple effect.
Growing up with Punjabi/Sikh influences at home, I was taught a lot about the importance of “Seva” (selfless service). I’d love to be giving back more to the world beyond paid work. I’m very aware of how privileged I am to be in my safe, secure little Adelaide bubble surrounded by loving friends and family.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
I recently was up in Darwin doing my show, The Mixed-Race Tape for Darwin Festival. I’d never been to the NT before. It’s a really special place. The weather, the food, the culture, the super strong arts scene and the greater presence and acknowledgment of First Nations people in the region, has made a lasting impression. I really felt welcomed and at home. I can’t wait for another chance to step foot on Larrakia Land again.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I live in Southern Adelaide on the Fleurieu Peninsula. Our local beaches are Port Noarlunga and Southport, where the Onkaparinga River meets the sea. So, we often take friends and family into the Port Noarlunga township and to the beach. Nothing like taking a rapper from interstate kayaking in the river walking distance from your house!
What are you currently reading?
I recently bought my wife Jacinda Ardern’s A Different Kind of Power and I’m sneakily reading it myself whenever she isn’t.
What are you currently listening to?
As I write this, I am currently listening to Sunshine (Featuring Lyrics Born, Reggie B & Erin Buku) by Bloomy Meadows & Inkswel. They are artists I’ve grown up with over the years and to see them collaborate with an artist like Lyrics Born who we have all admired for so long is pretty magical. Bloomy and Inkswel have a collaborative LP coming out soon that I also feature on, I’m really excited for them.
Happiness is?
Being fully present while doing something meaningful with my wife and daughter.
What does the future hold for you?
The last couple of years has been really busy trying to juggle too many different roles. I’ve consciously slowed things down for the next few months to allow for my time for my family and my art. I’m excited, because the future is a bit unknown, but I know that when you have the privilege of allowing some time and space in your life in a purposeful way, good things will follow.
Kultar presents The Mixed-Race Tape at Adelaide’s Nexus Arts Venue, as part of the 2025 OzAsia Festival, on Tuesday 4 November. For more information, visit: www.ozasia.adelaidefestivalcentre.com.au for details.
Image: Kultar Ahluwalia – photo by Paul Charles Bartlett