Dubai: The first ever ‘India Show' in Dubai turned to Bollywood, Kathak dance and splendid Indian cuisine on Wednesday evening to bolster trade and commerce between the two countries.
The cultural evening was part of the three-day India Show organised by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, in coordination with the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) to create new business opportunities for both India and the UAE.
While Bollywood actor Kangana Ranaut, director Madhur Bhandarkar and Taare Zameen Par-fame Tisca Chopra lend glitz and glamour to the evening at the Dubai International Convention Centre, the riveting performance of Kathak dancers from India led by Kumudhini Lakhia brought alive the rich artistic glory of the Moghul courts. Playback singer Boney Chakraborthy enthralled the audience with his rendition of the A.R. Rehman composition Azeemusha Shehensha from the movie Jodha Akbar.
The actors and dancers were felicitated for their contributions to the India cinema and art by chief guests Hanif Hassan, UAE Minister of Health, and Anand Sharma, Indian Minister for Commerce and Industry. A. Shaktivel, President of FIEO, M.K. Lokesh, Indian ambassador to the UAE, Sanjay Verma, Indian Consul General and other dignitaries were present.
Pledged
Ranaut pledged she would always be available to promote India. "I want to tell you that whenever and wherever you want me to promote India for any worthy cause, I am going to be by your side," said the actress.
Bhandarkar, one of the top league directors from Bollywood who is well-known for his socially-relevant and real-to-life movies including Chandni Bar, Page 3 and Fashion said as cinema has no boundaries, "Bollywood is an absolute platform to connect between people and see people in different perspectives."
A spread of Indian mangoes and a variety of special delicacies made from the fruit formed a part of the extravaganza.
