MUSCAT: A unique fiusion music ensemble of both Oman and India marked the existing friendly bilateral relations between the two countries on January 26, Indian Republic day, at the Indian Embassy premises marking yet another milestone between the two countries.
Titled 'A unique Jugalbandi', Omani band Scales Ensemble played Indian patriotic song 'Vande Mataram' and well-known danseuse Aishwarya performed 'Odissi' dance to the tunes in perfect rhythm and precision.
The event was held at the National Day Reception on the evening of January 28 to mark the 75th Republic Day of India, by Amit Narang, Ambassador of India at the Embassy of India in Muscat. Qais al Yousef, Minister of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion (MOCIIP), graced the occasion as the chief guest.
Khalid Almuslahi, Undersecretary for Administrative and Financial Affairs, Foreign Ministry; Pankaj Khimji, Advisor for Foreign Trade and International Cooperation at the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion; Faisal bin Abdullah bin al Rawas, Chairman of the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI); Members of Majlis Addawla and Majlis Ash'shura; senior government officials; Ambassadors resident in Muscat, as well as prominent members of the Omani and Indian community attended the reception.
The chief guest along with Sayyid Nasr al Busaidi and Amit Narang unveiled a replica of the joint commemorative postage stamp released during the State Visit of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik to India in December 2023.
The festive atmosphere was elevated by a diverse array of Indian delicacies, offering guests a gastronomic journey through the rich culinary heritage of India. Additionally 'Selfie with India' corners, featuring life-size exhibits provided attendees with the opportunity to capture memorable moments against the backdrop of India's cultural and scientific landmarks.
Scales Ensemble is a captivating musical ensemble based in Oman, aimed at harmonising western classical notes with Arabic musical instruments and comprises of six highly skilled Omani musicians. The band is one of its kind, both in terms of the diversity of musical instruments and the quality of instrumental music performed. Among the instruments featured are the violin, qanun, and various oriental percussion instruments which includes a unique mix of flute, cello, and viola, contributing a Western texture that enables the group to perform instrumental music in both classical and Western styles.
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