JEDDAH: Saudi and Indian artists participated in a joint cultural program organized by Soorya at Lora compound here recently, winning applause of a huge audience, and reflecting the power of culture in integrating peoples.
Abdullah Aftab, supervisor of Jeddah community services unit at Saudi Aramco, told Arab News that he was extremely happy in participating in the event. “This is the first time I am attending such a wonderful program,” he said.
He disclosed plans to organize a similar event at Aramco compound in order to help Saudis understand the rich culture and heritage of Indians. “Cultural exchange is essential for people to know each other and improve their relations.”
The joint program, which saw members of Al-Turath folklore troupe from Jeddah joining hands with Indian kathak exponent Rajendra Gangani and veena maestro Rajesh Vaidhya and their teams, was a new experience for both the artists and their fans.
“The Saudi folklore music and dance are really fantastic. It’s lively and moving,” said Vaidhya while watching the show of Saudi artists, who presented mizmar and other traditional dances. He was moved by the friendly gesture of Saudis.
This year’s Soorya festivals in Saudi Arabia began in Dammam, where Abdullah Saihati, chairman of Saihati Group and chief patron of the organization, inaugurated the event. It then moved to Riyadh before reaching Jeddah.
“This sort of program should reach a wider horizon,” said Rajeev Shahare, deputy chief of the mission at Indian Embassy, while opening the program in Riyadh.
Saudi Arabia intends to strengthen its cultural relation with India. The Council of Ministers on Monday authorized Culture and Information Minister Abdul Aziz Khoja to hold talks with his Indian counterpart to sign a memorandum of understanding with Indian Council for Cultural Relations.