Lal Singh emphasizes on preservation of local arts, culture

Pays rich tributes to V R Khajuria on 85^th birth anniversary

JAMMU, DECEMBER 04- Minister for Forest, Environment and Ecology, Choudhary Lal Singh today called for making dedicated efforts for promotion of creative arts and preservation of cultural heritage of the state.

The Minister was speaking at a function organized by Viraj Kala Kendra, a Non-Governmental Organisation at Gandhi Nagar on the 85^th birth anniversary of renowned sculptorer Vidya Rattan Khajuria, here today.

MLC Zafar Iqbal Manhas, Chief Conservator of Forests Farooq Gillani, President Viraj Kala Kendra Rita Jitendra besides prominent citizens and students of various schools were present on the occasion.

Choudhary Lal Singh said that it is the duty of every citizen to value and preserve the rich heritage of our composite culture adding that this culture is the identity of the state and its people.

The Minister asked the budding artists to analyze artworks from the past and take inspiration from them. He said art work holds evidence to life in the past and by looking at it, one can learn about his cultural history and heritage.

Choudhary Lal Singh said that work of an artist must reflect life as arts play a vital role in presenting historical and cultural view point through their models. “Studying art from the past helps us understand the evolution of the society,” he added.

The Minister said that the government had initiated proactive measures to safeguard and protect cultural diversity of the state and urged the artists to contribute through their art in this noble cause.

Applauding Viraj Kala Kendra for its initiative to edify students about art, culture and heritage of the State, Choudhary Lal Singh said that the management was doing a fantastic work in promoting and popularizing State Art and Culture.

In his address, MLA Zafar Iqbal Manhas said that Sculptures have played vital role in educating the younger generation about arts, culture and heritage of the State.

Responding to the demand of the President Viraj Kala Kendra, he announced Rs. 50,000 out of CDF for purchasing the Public Address System for the Kendra.   

Later, the Minister and MLC also inspected the exhibition of sculptures by Ganesh Kumar Sharma as a tribute to Vidya Rattan Khajuria. The Exhibition also features works of students from various schools of the city.