New Delhi [India], December 1 (HBTV): Mari Mathias, a Welsh folk and indie singer-songwriter who will be performing in the Hornbill Festival in Nagaland from today, believes that cultural exchange between two nations plays a vital role in strengthening the bilateral relationship into a rich and long-lasting partnership.
Known for blending traditional Welsh folk with modern indie influences, Mathias creates a unique sound that resonates with audiences across cultures. Her music, rooted deeply in Welsh tradition, infuses folk melodies with modern twists that explore contemporary themes.
In an interview with ANI, Mathias shared her experience performing in India and emphasized the importance of cultural exchange at the Hornbill Festival in Nagaland. This year, the British Council (UK's international organization for educational opportunities and cultural exchange) has partnered with the State of Nagaland and the Hornbill Festival as part of the ‘Wales in India 2024’ celebration.
Mathias recalled how she received this opportunity through the British Council and expressed her gratitude. "I first got this opportunity supported by the British Council and performed in Cardiff, which then led to the chance to perform at the Hornbill Festival for its 25th anniversary. Connecting Wales to India is a rich cultural experience, and this is an amazing opportunity for an artist like me. I’m grateful to the British Council for bringing me here to perform at both the Centre Stage Festival and the Hornbill Festival," she said.
Mathias further noted that the event offers a unique opportunity to represent Welsh culture and connect with the heritage and customs of Nagaland, a place rich in its own unique traditions. "It’s a wonderful opportunity to bring together all forms of art and showcase Wales' voice in India while understanding more about Nagaland’s heritage, culture, and customs," she added.
When asked about her attraction to India and Naga culture, Mathias highlighted the similarities between Welsh and Naga traditions. She explained, "The folk music brings voices from an ancient past, and I believe that the Naga culture and heritage are similar to ancient Welsh culture. Music is universal, and this event offers a great opportunity to showcase that, as well as to promote the cultural exchange between vastly different cultures."
She emphasized that festivals like Hornbill provide a platform for indigenous youth and rural communities to express their art. "This experience helps give a voice to indigenous people, and I think it’s crucial for the support from organizations like the Heritage Council and Nagaland. Festivals like this allow rural communities to express themselves through art and contribute to a cultural exchange with language, customs, dance, music, clothing, and traditions," she said.
Mathias further spoke about the significance of cultural exchange and its role in building lasting bilateral relationships. She believes such exchanges foster rich dynamics between countries and promote learning from each other's cultures and traditions. "Cultural exchange creates a rich dynamic and long-lasting partnerships. We can learn so much from each other, especially older customs, which we can pass on orally to the younger generations," she added.
The Hornbill Festival, known as the 'Festival of Festivals,' will feature performances by Welsh folk musicians Mari Mathias and Gareth Bonello, who will collaborate with Naga artist Seyievinuo Chuzho and Khasi artist Benedict Skhemlang Hynniewta. The partnership between the British Council and Nagaland was announced in October during a visit to Wales by Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, recognizing the joint efforts by the British Council, the British Deputy High Commission in Kolkata, the Welsh Government, and Wales Arts International.
The festival will also include talks and platforms for local artists, supported by the India Wales Culture Fund. Ruchira Das, Director Arts India, British Council, affirmed the organization's commitment to fostering creative and cultural exchange.
"The participation of Welsh artists at the festival serves as a testament to the enduring cultural dialogue between India and the UK. We are confident that their performances will inspire meaningful exchanges and unforgettable experiences for audiences in Nagaland and beyond", she added.
(ANI)