Symphony
— By Aiyushman Dutta

A Naga handshake with Thailand

Commemorating the World Music Day, the ‘Handshake Concert’ of Nagaland was held in Bangkok, Thailand on 21st June. A noteworthy initiative of the Rattle and Hum Music Society, Nagaland, the event was supported by the Government of Nagaland and Ministry of Trade and Commerce, Royal Government of Thailand. After a great deal of effort by officials from both the countries, agreement papers were finally signed, air tickets booked and artists from the Land of Festivals have landed in the Land of Smiles!

Dr. Tolto Metha, the delegate from Nagaland accompanying the troupe, said, “On this musical day, the Convention Centre at the Centara Grand became the proud host of an inter-cultural event that saw artists from both the countries, showcasing vibrant and colorful performances on the same stage. Much to the delight of the organizers, the venue was packed with enthusiastic music lovers, old and young alike. With over a thousand in attendance, the performances from both Nagaland and Thailand were received with much admiration.”

Nagaland was able to showcase some of its finest artists including the Zowe Madrigal, Tetseo Sisters, O.F.F., Avancer, Kenei Chale and the dance troupes from the Sumi and Zeliang communities. A strong Naga contingent of about 35 which included artists, officials and professionals from various fields did bring some more smiles in the ‘Land of Smiles’ on this eventful day. The Naga musicians did an excellent job in packaging the show with Traditional, Modern Rock, Broadway and Soul music.

The excited entourage from the ‘Land of Festivals’ was led by Azo Nienu, Minister of Health & Family Welfare and Dr. Nicky Kire, Advisor of the Music Task Force along with Abu Metha, Press Secretary to the Chief Minister, Government of Nagaland. The other officials included Theja Meru and Khriehu Liezietsu, Chief Patron of the Rattle and Hum Music Society and members of XL, Nagaland, besides the other Government officials. Mention must be made on the giant effort extended by the Chief Minister of Nagaland, Neiphiu Rio, who made it sure that the event was a grand success.

Metha further said, “The evening also saw a fine collection of the Thai culture, music and food with the traditional Thai dancers giving an astounding performance, much to the delight of the guests and especially the delegates from Nagaland, all of whom were seated at the front dinner tables. The concert became livelier and louder with heart pounding performances by the Pop diva of Thailand, Christina Aguila, whose songs were coupled with energetic dance routines by her crew.”

Yanyong Phuangrach - The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Trade and Commerce, Government of Thailand attended the concert along with a host of other prominent dignitaries from both the Government and companies of Thailand, who were all evidently pleased with the inter-cultural concert.