Indian cultural fest to kick off from May 17 in Kathmandu

A unique cultural festival showcasing the diversity of India and its rich traditions will kick off here in the Nepalese capital on May 17.
"The festival is being organised with the objectives of providing a platform to intertwine happiness by spreading rich Indian culture in Nepal through collaboration and fun by bringing people, corporations and organisations together," a statement issued by the Indian Embassy said.
"The festival is a combination of food, art, traditional dance and music by world-class artists," it said adding, "this is a unique festival showcasing diversity of India."
India and Nepal have ancient and diverse relationship which needs to be nurtured from time to time and such cultural festivals will help facilitate a conversation between them, said Indian Ambassador to Nepal Ranjit Rae yesterday.

India is rich in culture and tradition and this event will bring a little bit of Indian cultural diversity to the Nepalese audience, he added.
Rae said besides Kathmandu, the cultural event will also be held in Chitawan, Pokhara and Birgunj.

A 3.5-km-long run for fun is also being organised in Kathmandu as part of the festival.
Ambassador Rae will formally inaugurate the festival amid cultural programmes. A 17-member Bhangra Troupe from Punjab has already arrived here to perform during the festival.
Four-member Sarod troupe led by Pandit Debojyoti Bose and a Manipuri Dance troupe will soon join them.
The festival is being organised by Indian Culture Centre, Kathmandu, in association with Indian Embassy and Indian Council for Cultural Relations, New Delhi.

Nepali artists Manoj Gautam and Salikram Ghimire will also join the Indian artists during the show.