SPIC-MACAY's first globalal convention begins May 20 in Kolkata

Over 1,800 delegates will participate in the first SPIC-MACAY international convention on promoting Indian classical music and culture that begins here May 20.

The week-long convention, to be hosted by the Indian Institute of Management, will see performances by Kathak exponent Birju Maharaj and folk artist Teejan Bai, among others.

It will be inaugurated by West Bengal Governor M.K. Narayanan and Shehnai maestro Ustad Ali Ahmed Hussain Khan.

"For the first time this year we will have an international convention here," SPIC-MACAY chief convener Raja Auddy told mediapersons at the Bengal Chamber here.

SPIC-MACAY (Society for the Promotion of Indian Classical Music And Culture Amongst Youth) is a voluntary youth movement which promotes Indian classical music, classical dance, and other aspects of Indian culture.

"We are getting delegates from different parts of the world. We have nominated foreign students who are coming for the event," said Ranjana Nagrare of the organisation.

Delegates from Pakistan, Bangladesh, Mauritius, Afghanistan among several other countries will participate in the event.