A colourful presentation of Thai culture by Sbun-Nga Group

Traditionally attired Thai dancers perform at the programme

On July 15, at the National Theatre Stage, Sbun-Nga Group staged a cultural programme representing Thai culture as part of the 11-day Thailand Festival 2005.

In his welcoming remarks, Suphat Chitranukroh, the Ambassador of the Royal Thai Embassy, said, "We believe that the cultural exchange will help promote friendship as well as trade and commerce between Bangladesh and Thailand."

Dr. Pravich Rattanapian, Thai trade representative as well as State Minister for Cultural Affairs, Thailand, in his opening speech said, "In the near future we hope to arrange a Bangladeshi Festival in Thailand."

Selima Rahman, the State minister for Cultural Affairs, said "Bangladesh will sign an agreement on cultural activities including performing arts, archaeology and others, with Thailand."

The cultural event started with the devotional dance titled Blessing presented by two members of Sbun-Nga Group in colourful attire and a little basket of florets in hand. The dancers, arrayed in the costumes of goddesses, sprinkled petals on the audience. Later, the dance troupe presented traditional Thai dance numbers.

Two dancers clad in gorgeous costumes presented a dance, common in central Thailand titled Hanuman and Suwannamatcha a piece adapted from the Indian epic The Ramayana.

Salawan Dance, represented the rich heritage of the northeastern part of Thailand.

An impressive display of the Manora Dance, a representation of southern Thailand, depicted the wonderful land of myth and legends. The performance of the dancers, dressed in costumes of the legends of the region, was the most spectacular piece of the show.

Lantern Dance, a typical northern Thai dance, began with the presentation of the dancers with lotus shaped candles in hands.

After the classical dance presentation, a singer performed two songs.

Later, Sbun-Nga Group displayed contemporary dances. The troupe promoted their business sectors like tourism. In one of the contemporary dance pieces, titled Sawasdee Bangladesh Dance, the troupe sought to depict the friendship between Bangladesh and Thailand. Two dancers, in the piece, appeared in typical Thai attire while two others in Ghagra presented Bangladesh. A caveat: Ghagra does not represent traditional Bangladeshi culture.