First Indian music and dance festival aimed to showcase the country’s rich and diverse culture was kicked off in Sydney, yesterday. Union Tourism and Culture Minister Mahesh Sharma inaugurated the 10-week “Festival of India” last night with spectacular joint performances by Indian and Australian artists.
Launching the festival, Mr Sharma said, festival is the first of its kind and a matter of pride for both the countries. He said both nations enjoyed strong relationship which has strengthened and diversified over the years.
New South Wale Minister for Ageing and Disability, John Ajaka said, the initiative, announced by the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Sydney in 2014, is expected to bring people of both sides closer. He said the economic relations with India will grow further as it emerges as one of the world’s largest economies.
The festival, an initiative of Indian government supported by the Australian side, will run across seven cities including Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane, Canberra and Adelaide.