Promoting India’s Cultural Heritage Globally
The Ministry of Culture in India has launched the “Global Engagement Scheme” to showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage. This initiative aims to enhance India’s image on the global stage while fostering connections between people from different cultures. A key component of this scheme is the Festival of India (FoI), which takes place in various countries. These festivals serve as a platform for artists from diverse cultural backgrounds to perform and engage with international audiences.
Festival of India: A Cultural Showcase
The Festival of India is a vibrant celebration of Indian culture held abroad. It features a wide array of performances, including folk art, classical dance, and contemporary music. Artists from various disciplines, such as folk music, folk dance, and theatre, participate in these festivals. The goal is to promote cultural exchange and strengthen bilateral ties through artistic expression.
Since its inception, the Festival of India has seen significant participation. From 2013-14 to 2023-24, a total of 62 festivals have been organized in different countries. Over 2,348 artists, including many folk artists, have showcased their talents at these events. Each performance not only highlights the richness of Indian culture but also fosters a sense of community and understanding among diverse audiences.
The Ministry of Culture ensures that artists are compensated fairly for their contributions. The main artist receives a performance fee of ₹35,000, while accompanying artists earn ₹7,000 for each performance. This financial support encourages artists to share their craft globally, enhancing the visibility of Indian culture.
Supporting Folk Artists and Cultural Societies
In addition to the Festival of India, the Ministry of Culture actively promotes Indian folk art and music through grants to Indo-Foreign Friendship Cultural Societies. These grants enable cultural societies in foreign countries to organize various cultural programs and activities. By supporting these initiatives, the Ministry aims to create a platform for Indian artists to connect with international audiences and share their heritage.
The financial assistance provided to these cultural societies plays a crucial role in sustaining and promoting folk art. It allows artists to perform and engage with communities outside India, fostering a deeper appreciation for Indian culture. The Ministry’s commitment to promoting folk art is evident in the number of artists who have participated in these programs over the years.
Furthermore, the Ministry has empaneled artists and groups from various art forms. This empanelment process ensures that talented artists are selected for international performances. For instance, two folk artists/groups and one Kathak artist from Uttarakhand are currently empaneled. One troupe from Uttarakhand participated in the “Freedom 70 Cultural Event” held in Cuba and the Dominican Republic in 2017, showcasing the state’s rich artistic heritage.
Financial Assistance for Veteran Artists
Recognizing the contributions of veteran artists, the Ministry of Culture has implemented a scheme to provide financial assistance to artists aged 60 and above. This initiative aims to support older and economically disadvantaged artists who have made significant contributions to their respective fields.
Under this scheme, selected artists can receive up to ₹6,000 per month. This amount is adjusted based on any state artist pension they may already be receiving. The financial support helps ensure that veteran artists can continue to pursue their passion and contribute to the arts, even in their later years.
In Uttarakhand, four artists have benefited from this scheme over the past two years. This initiative not only provides financial relief but also acknowledges the invaluable contributions of these artists to Indian culture. By supporting veteran artists, the Ministry of Culture helps preserve traditional art forms and encourages the next generation to appreciate and engage with their cultural heritage.
In conclusion, the Ministry of Culture’s initiatives, including the Global Engagement Scheme and financial support for veteran artists, play a vital role in promoting India’s rich cultural heritage on the global stage. Through festivals, grants, and financial assistance, India continues to share its vibrant arts and traditions with the world.
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