BIMSTEC Traditional Music Festival 2025 ‘Saptasur: Seven Nations, One Melody’ – A Celebration of Cultural Unity

Why in News?

• For the first time in 2025, the BIMSTEC Traditional Music Festival was organized at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.
• The event, themed ‘Saptasur: Seven Nations, One Melody’, brought together the musical traditions of BIMSTEC member countries on a shared platform.
• This cultural initiative was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the BIMSTEC Summit held in Thailand in April 2025.

Key Highlights:

Venue and Objective of the Festival

• Venue: Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi
• Objective: To showcase the rich musical traditions of the BIMSTEC nations in the Bay of Bengal region and to promote cultural connectivity.

Participating Countries under the Theme ‘Saptasur: Seven Nations, One Melody’

1. India
2. Bangladesh
3. Bhutan
4. Myanmar
5. Nepal
6. Sri Lanka
7. Thailand

Organizing Body:-

• Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR)

Inauguration:

• Inaugurated by External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar
• The event was free and open to the public

India’s Role: As a Cultural Bridge

• The festival strengthens India's "Cultural Diplomacy", using music and culture as instruments of regional cooperation.
• This initiative reflects the role of soft power within BIMSTEC, helping deepen bilateral and multilateral relations among member countries.

A Cultural Milestone for BIMSTEC

• This is the first cultural event in BIMSTEC's history, opening avenues for future cultural cooperation.
• The program embodies the principle of "Unity in Diversity", reinforcing the spirit of BIMSTEC.

BIMSTEC:- Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation