The Nagaland Conservatory of Music (NCM) has successfully concluded a cultural and educational exchange programme with Chiang Mai University, Thailand, through the project “Echoes of the Hills: Exploring the Choral Performances of India and Thailand.”
According to a press release, the collaboration strengthened academic, artistic and cultural ties between the two institutions while promoting greater understanding between India and Thailand through choral music.
A major highlight of the programme was the joint performance by the Nagaland Conservatory of Music Choir and the Chiang Mai University Choir. Bringing together singers from two distinct musical traditions, the collaboration celebrated friendship, mutual respect and artistic excellence while showcasing music as a powerful medium for cultural exchange and people-to-people connections.
The programme was organised by the Indian Studies Centre, Chiang Mai University, in collaboration with the Faculty of Fine Arts, Chiang Mai University, with support from the Consulate of India in Chiang Mai and the Indian diaspora in Thailand.
The inaugural programme featured opening remarks by Associate Professor Dr. Sugree Gasorngatsara, Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts, Chiang Mai University, who highlighted the importance of international artistic collaboration in fostering intercultural understanding. Consul of India in Chiang Mai, Pranav Ganesh, delivered the keynote address, underscoring the role of cultural diplomacy and the arts in strengthening the longstanding friendship between India and Thailand.
Besides the joint performances at Chiang Mai University, the NCM Choir also performed at McGilvary College of Divinity, Payap University, on July 2, Thammanikom Church in San Sai District, Chiang Mai Province, on July 4, and concluded its tour with a special presentation at Refuge Fellowship, Chiang Mai, on July 5.
The performances drew enthusiastic audiences comprising university faculty and students, members of the Indian diaspora, expatriates, local residents and well-wishers from across Chiang Mai Province. The release stated that the warm response reflected the enduring friendship between India and Thailand and reaffirmed the ability of music to transcend cultural and linguistic barriers while fostering mutual respect and goodwill.
The Nagaland Conservatory of Music expressed gratitude to the Indian Studies Centre, the Faculty of Fine Arts, Chiang Mai University, the Consulate of India in Chiang Mai, the Indian diaspora, partner institutions, host organisations and all supporters for their hospitality and contributions to the success of the collaboration.
It added that the successful exchange marked an important milestone in the growing relationship between NCM and Chiang Mai University and expressed hope that the partnership would lead to more academic and artistic collaborations, further strengthening ties between India and Thailand.
