HYDERABAD, Nov 21: President Droupadi Murmu on Friday inaugurated the second edition of the Bharatiya Kala Mahotsav at the Rashtrapati Nilayam in Secunderabad, marking the launch of a nine-day celebration of the cultural heritage of western India.
The festival, organised in collaboration with the Ministries of Culture, Textiles and Tourism, aims to showcase the artistic, craft, culinary and folk traditions of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Goa, Dadra & Nagar Haveli, and Daman & Diu.
Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, the President recalled that the first edition had introduced visitors to the rich heritage of the Northeast. This year, she said, the focus shifts to western India, offering the public an opportunity to experience its folk culture through handicrafts, dance, music, literature and cuisine.
She noted that the government of India has been taking several steps to help people, especially the youth, connect more deeply with the country’s cultural roots.
Events like the Bharatiya Kala Mahotsav, she added, not only broaden understanding among people from different regions but also strengthen respect for India’s diverse heritage and encourage its preservation.
The President expressed confidence that the festival would draw large numbers of visitors over the coming days.
Among those present at the event were Telangana Governor Jishnu Dev Varma, union Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, union Coal and Mines Minister G Kishan Reddy, Rajasthan Governor Haribhau Bagde, Goa Governor Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju, Telangana Minister for Panchayat Raj, Rural Development and Women and Child Welfare D Anasuya Seethakka, and Gujarat’s Minister for Tribal Development, Khadi and Rural Industries Naresh Maganbhai Patel.
The Bharatiya Kala Mahotsav will be open to the public from November 22 to 30 between 10 am and 8 pm. Entry is free. Visitors can book their slots online, while walk-in bookings are also available.
(UNI)
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