Health and Family Welfare Minister and district in-charge, K.R. Ramesh Kumar, today said folk arts will never die as they have originated amidst the lives of the working masses in rural areas.
Inaugurating a State-level convention of drums and other leather instruments organised by Karnataka Janapada Academy at T. Chennaiah Rangamadira here, he said “The songs and dance of people during their works in fields, rivers and other places gave birth to folk art forms. Even if some other arts die, folk art will not.” There may be some setback for promotion of folk art forms due to the influence of western culture. However, folk arts will live as long as human race lives.
He lauded the efforts of Janapada Academy in providing a forum for artistes to showcase their talent.
MLA Varthur Prakash presided over the function. MP K.H. Muniyappa and Academy president Picchalli Srinivas spoke. Deputy Commissioner K.V. Thrilokchandra was present.
Hundreds of artistes from various parts of State took part in a colourful procession in the town preceding the inaugural programme.
CM for awards ceremony
The Janapada Academy’s annual award presentation ceremony will be held at Chennaiah Rangamandira tomorrow. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will present the awards to artistes and folk experts at a function scheduled to held at 6 p.m. Kannada and Culture Minister Umashree will be the chief guest.
