Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Apr 11 : N. N. Vohra, Governor, has emphasized the crucial importance of effective conservation, documentation and showcasing of the traditional performing art forms and the rich cultural heritage of the three main regions of the State.
The Governor, who is Chairman of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, was launching a new Scholarship Scheme at a function held at Raj Bhavan here this evening. This scheme, named “SMVDSB-Natrang Young Artists Scholarship Scheme” has been launched in association with “Natrang” for attracting young artists and enabling them to learn and practice the traditional arts of music, dance and drama.
The Governor observed that the successful implementation of this pilot project will provide a bedrock for the growth of theatre movement in the State and the preservation and promotion of various traditional art forms in J&K.
Referring to the Dogri Play “Suno Eh Kahani” presented by the Natrang on this occasion, the Governor lauded the performances of the artists. He observed that this play emanates a very important social message and suggested to Balwant Thakur, Director Natrang, to focus on promoting people’s theatre, which would contribute to the harmonious growth of the society.
The Governor launched the Scholarship Scheme by lighting the ceremonial lamp, gave away mementos to the artists and wished them bright futures ahead.
Usha Vohra, First Lady, and Navin K. Choudhary, Principal Secretary to the Governor, were present on the occasion.
The Scheme will be for three years, whereby 15 young artists will be identified and selected, preferably from the villages in the neighbourhood of the Shri Mata Vaishno Deviji Shrine in district Reasi. These artists will be trained over the next three years by Natrang in traditional art forms and music. It is aimed to ensure preservation and promotion of art forms, prevalent in the villages surrounding the holy Shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Deviji as well as in the neighbouring districts. The Shrine Board will provide the young artists a scholarship at the rate of Rs. 3,000 per month.
Earlier, Balwant Thakur stated that a hunt will be launched shortly to select the most talented artists for training under this Scholarship Scheme.
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