Chinese drum art troupe enthralls Bangladeshis, enhances cultural ties

DHAKA -- Hundreds of Bangladeshi music lovers were recently enthralled by the wonderful performance of the Jiangdu Spring Drum Art Troupe from China and they clapped and waved energetically as musicians played.

"This is the most amazing drumming performance I've ever experienced," said Abdul Jabbar, a member of the audience. "What I saw was a superb, flawless performance. It was breathtakingly gorgeous."

The sensational drumming, which was conducted on Thursday night at the National Theatre Hall at the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, came from north China's Shanxi province which has long been considered the cradle of famous Chinese drumming, dating back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907).

The performance aimed at celebrating the upcoming Chinese Lunar New Year which falls on Feb 16 this year, and further bolstering ties between Bangladesh and China.

Over the past years, Chinese artists visiting Bangladesh have consistently displayed their unique artistic traditions. Chinese traditional folk music and other artistic performances have captured imagination of the Bangladeshi people and the artists have won audiences' hearts and respect here.

Bangladeshi Cultural Affairs Minister Asaduzzaman Noor, a prominent actor, among other distinguished personalities, also enjoyed the entire performance.

"People in China celebrate Chinese New Year with great enthusiasm and passion, in much the same way as we celebrate our Bengali New Year (also called Pohela Boishakh) here."

"The Chinese New Year festivities continue for many days and are a very special time of year. On the occasion of the festival, I would like to congratulate all the people of China," Noor said.

He went on to express his hope that through such cultural exchanges, the friendly relations between the people of Bangladesh and China will be further strengthened.

"This will be my wish when China ushers in its new year."

As for the performances, such as those titled "Dragons Flying and Phoenixes Dancing," "Drums of Yellow River" and "The Legend of Drum Mountain," he said that the passionate Chinese artists have enchanted the local audience with their power, rhythm and unique style.

Deputy Chief of Mission at the Chinese Embassy in Dhaka, Chen Wei, said Chinese New Year, which dates back 4,000 years, is a time of marvelous festivities.

Chinese New Year means spring will come and winter will go, he said, adding that when he came, he saw all the decorations and all the people. "I felt the warmth of the Bangladesh people. I am so happy that people in Bangladesh can also enjoy Chinese New Year."

He wished all Bangladeshi friends a very happy and prosperous Chinese New Year, and China and Bangladesh an everlasting and ever growing friendship.