@kabeeryousef –
A perfect blend of art, culture, traditional music and dance marked the 51st National Day celebrations on Thursday. The highlight of the event organised by the Lujain Foundation was the national operetta “Najl of Sultans”
The operetta began with the music of the Salaam al Sultan, then a ceremonial cake was cut accompanied by the melodies of flute and harp by young Omani artistes.
A visual presentation of how the Sultanate was built from scratches by Late His Majesty Sultan Qaboos and what His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik continues to build in poems that touched the audience emotions who expressed the joy of the National Day.
‘Rejoice, Home’ performed by artistes on percussion and drums evoked patriotism and love of the land
Renowned Omani poet, Saeed bin Khamis al Sarhani launched Al Azi on stage as crowds stood behind him carrying their swords enthusiastically chanting the national anthem. It ended with many verses that expressed patriotism and loyalty to the Sultanate of Oman and its leader.
Next came Razha with performers carrying sticks and swords swaying to the tunes with steady steps.
Another operetta ‘Loyalty to Haitham’ was performed by Ashraf bin Khamis al Ghadani followed by ‘The Art of Nana’ that took the audience to the lofty mountains of Dhofar.
The event ended with a presentation of paintings of GCC leaders that reflected the depth of the Omani-Gulf relations.
Sayyid Saeed bin Sultan bin Yarub al Busaidi, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth for Culture, inaugurated the event in the presence of a number of officials and diplomats.
Various supporting groups and those who contributed to the operetta were honoured later by Lujain bint Muhammad al Hina’i, head of the Lujain Foundation for the Organisation of Exhibitions and Conferences.
Pics by: Hussain al Muqbali
