Al Gomhuria newspaper

Al Beheria cultural troupe’s visit to India

The Egyptian Ministry of Culture selected Al Beheira Folk Dance Troupe to represent Egypt in the 5^th Sufi Dance Festival, which was held in India on June 27, 2007 and continued for 10 days.

During its tour in India, the Troupe performed its artistic shows in three places: New Delhi, Kashmir and Hyderabad. The Troupe presented different items, including tanoura dance, which was highly admired by the audience. Among other items presented are dances reflecting the popular heritage of Al Beheira governorate (wedding parties of Wadi Al Natron, fishermen show) and Nubian wedding parties and life in Upper Egypt.

The shows performed by the troupe in New Delhi achieved unprecedented success and the audience were very keen to attend them all for being reflecting the Sufi spirit.

In Kashmir, which was the second leg for the troupe in India, the people of the state received the members of the troupe with flower on their arrival at the airport. The Kashmiris were very happy with the tanoura shows, which they consider an important part of the Sufi traditions. The shows were attended by senior officials in Kashmir state, including the Chief Minister, who attended tanoura shows in Egypt.

Hyderabad was the third and last leg for the troupe, where the audience were eagerly waiting for the troupe, after the news they heard about the successful and wonderful shows presented by its members in New Delhi and Kashmir. After the end of the shows, the Chief Minister of the state held a dinner banquet in honour of the troupe and presented some gifts to its members.

It is worth mentioning that this troupe won several prestigious awards, the last of which was "Spring of Friendship Festival" Award in Korea for its excellent performance.

In fact, such types of arts should be given greater attention, as it is an essential and integral part of the popular heritage and a reflection of the country's culture, history and traditions.

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