Indian Classical Music Concert in Riyadh Highlights India-Saudi Cultural Ties
Riyadh — An Indian classical music concert organized by the Embassy of India in Riyadh highlighted the growing cultural ties between India and Saudi Arabia.
The embassy, in collaboration with the Royal Commission for Riyadh City, organized the concert, titled “Desert Harmony,” featuring internationally acclaimed Indian musician Shujaat Husain Khan.
“An unforgettable evening in Riyadh! Desert Harmony – Sitar Melodies, presented by the Embassy of India with (RCRCSA), brought the soul of Indian classical music to a captivated audience comprising Saudi Government officials, diplomats, the Indian community, and music lovers,” the embassy wrote on X on Sunday.
“Grateful to the legendary Ustad Shujaat Husain Khan for a truly mesmerising performance. The evening highlighted the strong cultural ties between India & Saudi Arabia and the shared appreciation for music that brings people together,” the embassy added.
Earlier in the week, Indian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia and Yemen Suhel Khan welcomed Khan to Riyadh.
“Ambassador Dr Suhel Khan warmly welcomed the internationally acclaimed Sitar Maestro Ustad Shujaat Husain Khan to Riyadh today,” the embassy said Friday.
The embassy said the event promised an evening of musical excellence and cultural exchange, further strengthening friendship and appreciation between India and Saudi Arabia through the universal language of music.
The concert was held Friday at the Cultural Palace in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter.
Last year, India and Saudi Arabia signed a memorandum of understanding on cultural cooperation.
According to India’s Ministry of Culture, “the MoU aims to strengthen cultural ties between the two countries by fostering cooperation across a wide range of cultural fields, including arts, heritage, music, and literature. It focuses on promoting cultural exchanges, sharing regulatory and policy experiences, and facilitating participation in festivals and events.” (Source: IANS)
