SEOUL, South Korea — The ancient Indian epic Mahabharata took center stage in the South Korean city of Miryang, where a mesmerizing Kathakali performance brought Indian classical art to life through music, rhythm, and storytelling on Thursday.
The performance, held at Yoga Culture Town, marked the first-ever presentation of Kathakali in Miryang, located in the northeastern Gyeongsangnam-do Province. The Indian Embassy in South Korea shared on X, “A vibrant spectacle of storytelling, rhythm, and expression — Kathakali, one of India’s most iconic classical dance forms, brought the ancient epic of Mahabharata to life through music and dance.”
The Embassy expressed gratitude to Miryang City and Yoga Culture Town for hosting the event, which served as another milestone in the growing cultural exchange between India and South Korea.
The event followed the opening of the 11th Sarang Festival — the Festival of India in the Republic of Korea — organized by the Indian Embassy last week. The festival’s inaugural showcase featured a spellbinding Kathakali performance known for its colorful costumes, intricate makeup, and expressive gestures. Ambassador-designate Gourangalal Das felicitated the troupe, led by noted artist Sreenathan Sreenatha Mandiram, for an hour-long performance depicting “Duryodhanavadham” from the Mahabharata. Deputy Chief of Mission Nishi Kant Singh and Seodaemun-gu Mayor Lee Sung-heon also addressed the gathering.
Around 400 guests attended the event, including diplomats, cultural figures, media representatives, and friends of India in Korea. The Sarang Festival highlights India’s diverse culture through dance, music, cinema, visual arts, and cuisine.
Earlier this week, the Kathakali troupe performed at Busan Citizens Hall, where traditional Indian art met Korean enthusiasm. “The splendor of Kathakali met the vitality of Chhau dance at Busan Citizens Hall on October 22. Through every gesture and beat, the spirit of India met the warmth of Korea,” the Embassy shared on X, thanking Busan University of Foreign Studies for its support.
The ongoing Sarang Festival also features cultural events on Nami Island, one of South Korea’s most popular tourist destinations, drawing crowds eager to experience the colors and rhythms of India. (Source: IANS)
