Five nations to take part in India`s first military music fest

Military bands from Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, France and Britain will participate in India`s first ever military music festival in New Delhi on Feb 25 to March 9.

The festival is being organised by the army at the parade ground in Delhi cantonment, the Purana Qila and the India Gate, a senior army official told IANS. 

Invitations were sent to France, Britain, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Kazakhstan. "Thailand and Kazakhstan are not participating," the official said. 

Asked about Pakistan, when other immediate neighbouring countries are participating, the official said: "They were not invited." 

From India, bands of all the three arms - army, navy and air force, Kalaripayattu (traditional martial art of Kerala) display team, teams from northeast, bhangra dance, Ladakh dance and lezim dance from Maharashtra would also be showcased. 

Each contingent would be of 50 people each. The foreign military bands will arrive in New Delhi on Feb 25. 

According to officials, President Pratibha Patil would witness the bands-performance on Feb 28. 

"We are still awaiting confirmation of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh`s presence at the event," the official added. 

Beside the VVIPs, the common people too can enjoy the cultural programmes and music at India Gate. 

In the past, Indian military bands too have participated in international events. 

A 400-strong Indian military detachment took part in the Bastille Day parade in France in July 14 last year. Drawn from the army, navy and the air force, the contingent marched to Indian martial music played by a 90-member band.