First-Ever BIMSTEC Traditional Music Festival Begins in New Delhi

In a historic moment for regional cultural cooperation, the first-ever BIMSTEC Traditional Music Festival will be held today at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. The event, titled ‘SaptaSur: Seven Nations, One Melody’, will bring together artists from the seven BIMSTEC nations—India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand—for an evening of musical harmony and shared heritage.

A Celebration of Seven Nations

The festival, organised by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), will showcase the rich and diverse musical traditions of the BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) member countries. It promises to be a unique cultural experience, symbolising the motto of unity in diversity across the Bay of Bengal region.

Role of India in Strengthening Cultural Ties

The genesis of the festival lies in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s announcement at the BIMSTEC Summit in Thailand (April 2025), where he affirmed India’s commitment to strengthening regional cultural ties through music. By hosting this inaugural edition, India has taken a leading role in using culture as a bridge for regional cooperation and people-to-people connectivity.

Inauguration and Participation

The festival will be inaugurated by External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar this evening. Entry to the event is free and open to all, with seating available on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests are requested to be seated by 6:00 PM to witness what promises to be an extraordinary evening of cultural exchange.

Cultural Milestone for BIMSTEC

This first edition of the BIMSTEC Traditional Music Festival marks an important cultural milestone in the journey of the regional organisation. It highlights the role of soft power and cultural diplomacy in strengthening bilateral and multilateral ties among BIMSTEC members.