Indian folk artists mesmerise Russian audience in Moscow

Patil and Medvedev watched the 90 minute classical and folk arts performance held at the world famous Bolshoi Theatre last night organised as part of the ongoing "Year of India in Russia" festival.

The concert titled 'Sahasra Patra', which means a lotus of thousand petals, was performed in a kalideoscopic backdrop and kept the audience spell-bound receiving spontaneous response.

"It was one and a half hour complete immersion in the Indian culture," Medvedev told Patil at the end of the performance.
He said the friendly ties with New Delhi had stood the test of time and would never be overshadowed by differences and conflicts, and the relationship with India was always one the most important foreign policy priorities of Moscow.

Patil said: "we are assured that India lives in the hearts of every Russian. Similarly, I can assure you that Russia lives in our hearts as a land and a people who share our feelings of mutual respect and abiding friendship".

The event started with noted Hindustani classical musician Shruti Sadolikar Katkar rendering a composition in praise of God.
This was followed by Nadeswaram from Tamil Nadu, Talavadhyam and Kathakali from Kerala, Shanka Vadyam from Orissa, Flower and Thunchem from Jammu and Kashmir, Bisukamsale from Karnataka and Kinnauri Nati from Himachal Pradesh among others.
"Very innovative and a sheer magnificient show. All kudos go to Bansi Kaul, renowned director and choreographer, who helped put together the show," well known lyricist Gulzar said.
The festival was organised by the Indian Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR) and came as part of the year-long celebration.
The performance was telecast live by Russia's federal television channel Kultura (culture). The Year of Russia festival was held in India last year.