TEHRAN -- Amano Manish, an Indian slide guitar player, who traveled to Iran to take part in the 40th Fajr International Music Festival, has hailed the centuries-old cultural exchanges between Iran and India, saying it encompasses not only arts and culture but also goods and food.
According to the public relations office of the festival, Manish, who has visited Iran four times, described the festival atmosphere as “excellent.”
He emphasized the importance of such cultural events in fostering understanding and eliminating misconceptions between cultures.
The musical artist pointed out Indian music has been influenced by Persian music, and that many Indian poets have written in Persian, adding Iranian poets like Saib Tabrizi have also lived in India for years.
Manish who is on the Ava-ye Zamin ensemble, led by Iranian musician Vahid Ayrian, featured Indian tabla player Pavann Nayak and vocalist Pavan Naik, and blending Iranian and Indian musical traditions.
The performance was part of the festival’s mission to promote cross-cultural dialogue.
Manish has previously collaborated with Iranian artists, including Rouzbeh Nematollahi. He praised the festival for its international flavor, bringing together artists from diverse backgrounds to showcase their traditions.
Meanwhile, Spain’s Ambassador to Iran Antonio Gaspar has expressed his delight at the inclusion of renowned flamenco guitarist Daniel Casares in the 40th Fajr International Music Festival.
Casares, a native of Malaga, performed a solo flamenco guitar recital, showcasing one of Spain’s most challenging musical traditions, according to the Public Relations Office of the 40th Fajr International Music Festival.
“I’ve known Daniel since he won his first award at 16. His solo performances are exceptional, and I congratulate the festival organizers for inviting him. He is an excellent representative of Spanish flamenco music,” Gaspar said.
He voiced hope that Casares’ visit to Iran will not be his last, noting the guitarist’s regret at having to leave so soon.
Gaspar, who attended the performance with his family, praised the festival’s atmosphere and the Iranian audience’s appreciation for Spanish music.
“I was surprised by how many Iranians spoke Spanish and enjoyed the performance. Music transcends language and brings cultures closer together,” he remarked.
The ambassador also expressed his admiration for Iran’s rich and diverse musical traditions, stating, “Iran is a vast and culturally rich country. I hope to contribute to introducing this heritage to Spain during my time here.”