KARACHI: The Arts Council of Pakistan’s auditorium No: 1 was packed to the rafters on Wednesday evening to witness the performance of the Mongolian band Echoes of the Ancients.

It proved to be a memorable event as the group entertained the audience with its heart-warming music and dances depicting the colourful and traditionally opulent Mongolian culture.

The show kicked off with a folk song that underscored affinity with nature. The female singer impressed music lovers with her powerful voice. Her performance in the lower register was particularly good. It was followed by a solo piece on a string instrument. The musician played the tune with effortless ease and composure. The rustic sound of the composition signified lush landscapes and an unsullied natural ambience.

Next up was the traditional Mongolian dance act by a young girl. It was liked immensely by the audience. The grace and poise with which the dancer displayed her talent was praiseworthy. There was endearing purity to her art.

Artists from Mongolia perform for the first time in Pakistan

Then the show returned to music with a rendition signifying the 12 elements in the Asian zodiac system followed by a few more exhilarating acts. The audience enjoyed it to the hilt.

Earlier, the Deputy Head of Mission of Mongolia, Munkhtushig addressed the attendees. He said Mongolia and Pakistan established diplomatic relations in 1962, but the historical and cultural connections between the two nations dated back to the Mughal Empire. “Mongolia is located between Russia and China. We are the second largest landlocked country in the world.”

He said among other things Mongolia is a land of nomadic traditions.

The spirit of nomadic life is deeply ingrained in its people, reflecting in their warmth and hospitality.

“I firmly believe that people-to-people ties and cultural exchange play an important role in enhancing the understanding between the people of different countries in the region, and make invaluable contributions to the development of bilateral relations.” He added that the concert was a first of its kind cultural programme.

The council president, Ahmed Shah, said it’s for the first time that Mongolian artists were performing in Pakistan. “This is the beginning of a very strong cultural and diplomatic relationship between Mongolia and Pakistan.”

Published in Dawn, May 3rd, 2024