SEOUL, KOREA — The yearlong cultural Festival of India – ‘Namaste Korea’ (Greetings to Korea) – draws to a musical and colourful close this month. Organized by the Embassy of India and the Indian Cultural Centre in Seoul, in collaboration with the National Theater of Korea, the grand finale would feature recitals of Bharathnatyam (classical Indian dance) by Ms. Rama Vaidyanathan and percussion music by Delhi Panchavadyam Trust, an Indian musical Orchestra. The performances would be held in Seoul (on 7th March) and Gyeongju ( 9th March).
The performance in Seoul would be inaugurated by Dr. Syed Shahid Mahdi, Vice President of Indian Council for Cultural Relations, along with the President of National Theater of Korea Mr Ho-sang Ahn and the Ambassador of India Mr. Vishnu Prakash.
Over the preceding months a variety of Indian cultural performances, have been held and enjoyed by thousands of Koreans, Indians and foreign nationals, in Seoul, Busan, Nami, Jeju, Keochang, Jeonju and Gyeongju. The decision to hold reciprocal cultural festivals in South Korea and India, was taken during the landmark visit of President Lee Myung-bak to India in January 2010. It was also agreed to establish Cultural Centers in both capitals. The Indian Cultural Centre was opened in Seoul in April 2011. Besides arranging cultural programmes all over South Korea, it offers regular Yoga, Kathak (classical Indian dance) and Hindi classes.
The lead performer, Ms. Rama Vaidyanathan is a highly accomplished and renowned exponent of Bharatnatyam. She has performed to critical acclaim all over India and the world. She has received countless Presidential and civilian awards. She brings to her dance a rare sense of devotion and dedication, which leaves the audience with a sense of spiritual fulfillment. The performance is further enhanced by a stunning ensemble of musicians from India who will perform live an especially composed score.
Panchavadyam, an orchestra of five music instruments, is an ensemble performed during temple-festivals of India. Starting from a slow-tempo in the captivating rhythm, it steadily progresses and reaches the crescendo. It is a tower of rhythm created in front of caparisoned Elephants lining up in the temple-yard during the Festivals. The music of Panchavadyam is engrossing especially in the lush-green background of the pastoral-temples. The Korean audience will be treated to a mini sample of this musical form.