Pranab floats world flute festival at Rashtrapati Bhawan

President Pranab Mukherjee floated a music extravaganza outfit 'Indra Dhanush' at the Rashtrapati Bhavan and held its first World Flute Festival to commemorate Krishna Jayanti on Sunday.

Mukherjee had invited union ministers, members of Parliament, media persons, judges and leaders of the opposition for this cultural event.

"The title 'the rainbow' symbolises the many foundations of life as well as its essence.  We at the Rashtrapati Bhavan have started Indra Dhasush as a cultural series which seeks to showcase the richness, diversity and magnificence of Indian art and culture. It is an ode to our timeless cultural heritage and a platform for artists from all age groups to exhibit their talent. The series shall present over time performances by people accomplished in different forms of art," he said at the opening.

Mukherjee seemed to enjoy the one-hour cultural programme thoroughly -- he was seen clapping and tapping his foot on the beats.

Mukherjee also unveiled a sculpture titled 'peace' at the programme. Many musicians of note regaled audiences with their performances. The first was melody by noted flautist and composer Naveen Kumar.

Other notable performances were Turkish melodies Yemen Turkusu and Cecen Kizi by Burecu Kardana, and Vande Mataram Maa Tuhhe salam medley and a Krishna Bhajan by Pandit Renu Majumdar.