ISLAMABAD, March 31: The three-day dance and music festival “Indus Rhythm” at Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) enthralled audience here Monday with traditional dance and music to welcome the spring season in the capital.

The well-known National Performing Arts group comprising experienced dancers, orchestras and technical staff performed in the show.

While the graceful stage images were the part of evening which aimed at creating harmonious musical accompaniment, good supporting effects of costumes, props and lighting in order to bring about a fully developed stage art. The group has already represented Pakistan in more than thirty countries to promote friendship and cultural exchanges while it boasts a rich repertoire of folk and classical dances.

While the audience considered these dances as a pearl in the treasure house of the traditional performing arts which have a long and rich heritage whereas the performing skills by these folklorists have its own style.

The performers communicated the origins, histories and magical legacies of their traditional dance cultures heralding the countless pleasures of spring, dances and music of the people of Pakistan. Belonging to various regions of Pakistan, the folk artists highlighted the fascinating music and traditions of all the four provinces including Northern Areas and Tribal areas of the country in vibrant costumes and jewellry.

According to the performers, the folk dancing in the different regions of Pakistan reflects the mood, occupation and surroundings of the people while few are popular through out the country.

The whole atmosphere portrayed the performers’ immense athletic strength, impeccable balance which focused the body and mind to work in perfect harmony.

Each individual artist’s physical and philosophical strength combined with that of the fellow members of troupe which depicted the magnificent balancing in dances. The show enthralled the audience who fully appreciated the skills of the folklorists in dancing and melodious singing.

“These events should be organised on regular basis for providing recreational and entertainment facilities for the general public which also provide the glimpses of rich cultural heritage for the youth of the country”, a visitor in the show said.

The show depicted the images full of life reflecting the fusion of modern and tradition whereas wedding celebrations and popular dances were the major source of attraction in the festival.

From the Buddhist traditions of this region to the present day Luddi and the Kathak dance with soul soothing beat of Tabla created a tranquil ambiance.

The Fishermen’s Dance captured the rhythm of the fishermen’s life while the most popular folk song of Pakistan Ho Jamalo dance described the 18th century warrior Jamal Khan Rind, as ten feet tall with flashing red eyes, who defended his homeland from foreign invaders.—APP