Thai cultural bonanza in town

Thai performers decked in traditional costumes at the programme

The function was organised by the Royal Thai Embassy in collaboration with Thai Airways International Public Company Ltd and Bangladesh-Thai Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Chief guest for the occasion was Begum Selima Rahman, State Minister, Ministry of Cultural Affairs who was received by Suphat Chitranukroh, Ambassador of Thailand to Bangladesh.

The Sbun-Nga group from Chiang Mai, Thailand offered the invitees a tasteful and energetic performance with their vast array of vibrant colours and graceful steps. A large screen projector at the background kept the viewers informed about the significance of each dance, explaining its origin and meaning. Sbun-Nga dance troupe is one of the pioneer dance troupes in Thailand having performed in over 50 countries over the past 20 years. "We focus on spreading the message of friendship among nations,' asserted Akadet Nakkabunlung, dance instructor of the troupe.

The performance was divided into four broad categories based on the four different regions in Thailand. The first part of the dance illustrated the hilly areas of north Thailand where people are mild tempered and slow, and hence the dance took a softer approach. The victory drum dance, Finger nail dance, and Peacock dance completed the dance episode, whereas a fusion fashion show titled From the hands of the hill and a song composed by the King, HM Blue took the enthralled audience by surprise at the rich culture of this Asian nation.

The second part was based on the culture of southern Thailand showcasing the vast blue ocean. Their customs are mixed with the Malays and hence a fashion show depicting the Colour of Asia was followed by The Coconut shell dance, Manora dance, Batik dance and a Thai popular song.

Bangkok--the literal meaning being 'the city of angels' was the predominant theme of the third part and depicted the glory of central Thailand. Siam drum dance, Harvest dance, Angel dance and a King-composed song: Love at sun down was included in this section.

North-eastern Thailand--a mélange of Laos and Cambodian traditions, the people are happy go lucky people and hence the performances were fast paced. Happy dance and the Whisky pot dance ended this section.

Last but not the least was the Good relationship dance. All the members of the troupe came together in a whirlwind of whites, silvers and diamonds signifying the bond between Thailand and Bangladesh. The colour combination represented peace, whereas the diamonds showed the value the Thais put on this very special relationship between the two countries. Miss Thailand Universe and Miss Thailand World were among the performers.