JEDDAH, 27 October 2006 — The two-day Asia Festival, which is open to men, women and children of all nationalities, begins at the International Indian School-Jeddah (Boys Section) this evening.
The festival, to be inaugurated by Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Director General Muhammad ibn Ahmad Tayyab, will have cultural events from all the participating countries, namely Bangladesh, Brunei, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, Thailand, India, Malaysia, Japan, China and Indonesia.
“There will be cultural performances today from the Philippines, India, Thailand, Bangladesh and China,” said a press release issued by the Asian Consuls General Club, the organizers of the cultural extravaganza. “Tomorrow, Japan, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei will showcase their culture.”
The Indian Consulate has prepared a host of events that include a semi-classical dance, a mime and “mohiniattam” dance. Children from all other participating Asian countries will be part of the welcome song to be sung during the inauguration ceremony at 6.30 p.m. today.
The Sri Lankan Consulate will be holding three cultural dances at the show tomorrow at 9.20 p.m. with the assistance of the Sri Lankan International School and a couple of Sri Lankan business organizations.
“The pageant is the first of its kind in the Kingdom and a rehearsal for even greater shows to come in future. It is a challenge for us as Sri Lankans to compete with other major countries like India, Malaysia and China,” said Sri Lankan Consul General M. Inamullah in a press release.
China, Malaysia, Thailand and Brunei have lined up documentary films to project their culture and tourism. Entrance tickets for the event are priced at SR10 for adults, SR5 for children. Tinytots will be allowed in for free. Tickets will be available at the security gate of the Indian school.
