Kazakh culture made a powerful statement in India during the 11th Music and Dance Festival held in New Delhi. The performance by Kazakh artists became more than just a concert — it marked an important step in strengthening cultural and humanitarian ties between Kazakhstan and India, DKNews.kz reports.
A strong Kazakh presence on the festival stage
Kazakhstan was represented at the festival by around 68 artists, showcasing some of the country’s leading cultural institutions. Among them were:
- the Astana State Academic Philharmonic named after Erkegali Rakhmadiev, conducted by Maestro Abzal Mukhitdin
- the “Gakku” dance ensemble
- the Kazakh Chamber Choir of the Aktobe Regional Philharmonic named after Gaziza Zhubanova
Together, they presented a diverse programme combining classical music, choral performance and traditional dance, capturing the attention of an international audience.
When musical traditions meet
One of the highlights of the festival was the joint performances by Kazakh artists with renowned Indian musicians Lakshminarayana Subramaniam and Kavita Krishnamurti. These collaborations became a vivid demonstration of how different musical traditions can blend naturally on one stage.
The performances reflected not only technical mastery, but also mutual respect and creative harmony between the cultures of Kazakhstan and India.
A night of unity and national pride
The concerts were attended by Kazakh citizens living in India, diplomats from the Embassy of Kazakhstan in India, as well as Kazakh students studying at Indian universities. Their presence created a special atmosphere of unity, turning the event into an emotional meeting point for the Kazakh community abroad.
For many, the evening became a reminder that national culture continues to resonate far beyond the country’s borders.
Cultural diplomacy in action
The festival performance stood out as a strong example of Kazakh-Indo cultural diplomacy. It contributed to deeper mutual understanding between the two nations and strengthened Kazakhstan’s international cultural presence.
Kazakh music and dance were received not as something distant or exotic, but as a living art form capable of speaking to a global audience.
Tour across India continues
The New Delhi performance is only the beginning. The tour programme of the Kazakh artists will continue in other major Indian cities.
Concerts are scheduled in Kolkata, Chennai and Bengaluru, where audiences will have further opportunities to experience the richness of Kazakhstan’s musical and dance heritage.
