Indian song and dance steals the show at ‘Roof of the World’ festival at Khorogh

The silent mountains of Pamir were filled with the songs and dances of six thousand strong audiences who became mad for the beatings of Tabla and the ‘Ali Ali’ chanting of the Qawali troupe from India. The Indian performances won the heart of Pamiris during the three days of ‘Roof of the World’festival organized in Khorogh recently.
Khorogh witnessed the 12th edition of the Roof of the World festival from 26th to 28th of July 2019. As what started as a tiny spring has grown into a massive river like Panjo Dariya, this festival of Khorogh has drawn international attention over the years.Pamiris,known for their unique art and culture have nurtured this festival for the last 12 years under the leadership of MrSamandarPulanov.This year seven countries including Tajikistan, Afghanistan, Kajakistan, Kirgistan, Uzbekistan, India and USA took part in the festival Khorogh is a city cut off from the world for the cold seasons and surrounding mountains. This festival brings a fresh air of enthusiasm in the minds of people who are otherwise busy in their own world. The main events were held in the Central Park Open Air Theatre, whereas, the workshops and masterclasses were conducted in IsmailiCentre adjoining the Central Park. People from far off and nearby places rushed to the Central Park to witness the annual cultural extravaganza, represented by international artists. The Indian Embassy Dushanbe, sent a team of 12 artists and the Tabla teacher under the leadership of the Director, Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, to partake in the festival for three days. When the festival drew curtains, an official from Swiss Development Cooperation, who was also one of the sponsors of the festival said“The whole city ofKhorogh is talking about the performance of Indian group. Indian performance for three days included the Qawali, Indian and Tajik folk songs, and Classical Kathak dance from the students of SVCC