Recently, during the International Ramayana Festival in Bangkok, a Malaysian Odissi classical dance troupe captivated the audience with their magnificent performance of the epic “Ramayana.” Led by Datuk Ramli Ibrahim, chairman of Sutra Foundation in Kuala Lumpur, the group fulfilled their creative vision in “Jaya Ram,” a performance that showcased the rich Odissi dance style from Odisha, India. In a interview with Bernama Datuk Ramli Ibrahim said,
This time, Malaysia presents itself as a country with transcultural offering, emphasising that arts and culture have become a globalised experience, We are one family
The festival celebrated with a collaboration between Malaysia and India, was held from 12 July to 15th July across three prominent venues in Bangkok, the Thailand Cultural Centre, Sanam Luang Ceremonial Ground and shopping mall ICONSIAM. The event was organized by Thailand’s Ministry of Culture, commemorated King Maha Vajiralongkorn’s 72nd birthday.
The festival featured performances not just from Malaysia and Thailand but six other countries, including India, Cambodia, Myanmar, Singapore, Philippines, and Indonesia. Each showcased unique interpretations of the “Ramayana,” highlighting the transcultural nature of arts and culture.
Datuk Ramli Ibrahim emphasized the importance of performing in Southeast Asia, where audiences are highly receptive and performances are well-received. With more than two thousand attendees, the festival offered an enriching opportunity for all visitors to experience the Ramayana’s timeless narrative.
Datuk Ramli Ibrahim has also said to Bernama,
I feel that why we should give more importance performing in Europe or New York when places in South-East Asia can offer such a wonderful audience and performances are so well received here
This collaboration underscored Malaysia’s commitment to promoting globalized cultural experiences, reinforcing the idea that “we are one family” in the world of arts and culture.
Sources: Bernama
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