A song that traveled to space? Meet Georgia through music and dance

Powerful polyphonic singing, dazzling sword dances and colorful traditional costumes brought the spirit of Georgia to life in Beijing during the China-Georgia Cultural Exchange Day.

World-renowned Georgian State Academic Ensemble "Erisioni," which has a history spanning 140 years, presented a series of performances showcasing the country's rich folk traditions. Audiences experienced Georgia's unique polyphonic music, which composer Igor Stravinsky described as "the most modern music ever," alongside dances blending martial valor, romance and ritual elements.

Among the highlights was "Chakrulo," one of Georgia's best-known folk songs. A recording by Erisioni was included on NASA's Golden Record aboard the Voyager spacecraft in 1977, making it the only musical piece from the Caucasus selected to represent humanity's cultural heritage.

Speaking at the event, Georgian Ambassador to China Paata Kalandadze said cultural exchanges are among the best ways for people to understand each other and deepen friendship. Through music and dance, the event offered a vivid example of growing cultural ties between China and Georgia.