Malaysian Odissi dance troupe shines at International Ramayana Festival

The Malaysian Odissi classical dance troupe delivered a spellbinding performance of the epic “Ramayana” during the International Ramayana Festival held in Bangkok from July 12 to 15, 2024. The troupe, led by the renowned Datuk Ramli Ibrahim, chairman of the Sutra Foundation in Kuala Lumpur, showcased their creative vision through the performance titled “Jaya Ram.” This presentation highlighted the rich and intricate Odissi dance style originating from Odisha, India, and captivated a diverse audience.

In an interview with Bernama, Datuk Ramli Ibrahim expressed the significance of Malaysia’s role in the global cultural landscape. “This time, Malaysia presents itself as a country with transcultural offerings,” Ibrahim stated. “Arts and culture have become a globalized experience; we are one family.” His comments underline the event’s broader message of unity and cultural exchange.

The festival, marking King Maha Vajiralongkorn’s 72nd birthday, was a vibrant celebration of the Ramayana, featuring performances from eight countries including India, Cambodia, Myanmar, Singapore, the Philippines, and Indonesia. The festival spanned three notable venues in Bangkok: the Thailand Cultural Centre, Sanam Luang Ceremonial Ground, and ICONSIAM shopping mall. The event, organized by Thailand’s Ministry of Culture, drew over two thousand attendees, offering an immersive experience of the Ramayana’s enduring legacy.

Southeast Asia’s Embrace of the Ramayana

Datuk Ramli Ibrahim emphasized the importance of performing in Southeast Asia, where audiences demonstrate a deep appreciation for such cultural performances. “I feel that why we should give more importance to performing in Europe or New York when places in Southeast Asia can offer such a wonderful audience and performances are so well received here,” Ibrahim remarked. This perspective highlights the region’s growing influence and receptiveness in the global arts scene.

The festival’s successful collaboration between Malaysia and India, alongside other participating countries, illustrated the transcultural nature of arts and culture. Each performance presented a unique interpretation of the Ramayana, reinforcing the idea that cultural exchange enriches global understanding and unity. Malaysia’s participation in the festival not only showcased its rich artistic heritage but also reaffirmed its commitment to promoting cultural experiences that resonate across borders.