H.E Yousuf bin Alawi bin Abdullah, Minister Responsible for Foreign Affairs of Oman, inaugurated the first ever ‘Festival of India in Oman’ in a ceremony organized by the Embassy of India in Muscat on 15 November at Al-Bustan Palace Amphitheatre. H.E. Abdulaziz bin Mohammed al-Rowas, Advisor to His Majesty for Cultural Affairs, was also present. Senior Officials of the Government of Oman, Ambassadors, members of Diplomatic Corps, prominent Omani businessmen, prominent Indians in Oman, persons from the field of art and culture and media persons were also present at the ceremony, attended by over 600 persons; the Amphitheatre was full to its capacity.

An Indian dance troupe Hritaal, enthralled the audience with mesmerizing performance of ‘Hridayabhavna’, a colorful dance collage reflecting the rich cultural heritage of India, directed and choreographed by its Director, Jaydeep Palit. The rich and diverse repertoire included dances from West Bengal to Rajastan. Hritaal Troupe will perform today in Sur to be followed by performances in Sohar on 17th November and in Salalah on 19th November 2016.

The first ‘Festival of India in Oman’ is being organized during November 2016- March 2017 by the Embassy of India in Muscat with the support of Ministry of Culture, Government of India. The Festival comprises Indian Classical and Folk dances, Indian instrumental Music, an Exhibition of Indian calligraphy, an Indian Food Festival and a Fashion Show. The Festival is being organized with a view to present to the people of Oman glimpses of the diverse Indian Culture, representing various traditions of Indian cultural heritage. The cultural Events under the Festival are being held in Muscat and three other major cities of Oman i.e. Salalah, Sur and Sohar.

Delivering his welcome address, Indra Mani Pandey, Ambassador of India, thanked the Government and people of Oman for the support extended to the Embassy in its endeavors to strengthen the strategic partnership between India and Oman, including cultural exchanges. Ambassador mentioned that since people of Oman are already familiar with various facets of Indian culture, Ministry of Culture of India has decided to present those aspects of Indian culture which are lesser known to them to give a taste of diversity and richness of Indian culture.

The Embassy of India hopes that the Festival of India will contribute to a greater understanding of Indian culture in Oman, encourage people to learn more about contemporary India and visit India and strengthen the bonds of India-Oman friendship further.

Muscat, 16 November 2016