The procedure to set up a Chhattisgarh Culture Council, to bring all units of art, music and literature of the state under one umbrella, has finally begun.
A Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel cleared the proposal, an official statement said. The exercise comes 20 years after the birth of Chhattisgarh.
Before it was formed, all cultural activities of Chhattisgarh were controlled from Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh).
The Chief Minister said in a statement that his government has worked to instill a sense of pride among the people for their culture.
Holidays were announced for ‘Teeja’ (women’s festival), Hareli and Govardhan puja. A decision was taken to prepare text books in Gondi, Halbi and other tribal dialects. A ‘Gadhkalewa’ will come up in all the districts of Chhattisgarh to promote and preserve indigenous cuisine.
The main objective of Chhattisgarh Culture Council is to promote and protect literature, music, dance, theatre, paintings and sculpture, cinema, tribal and folk arts in the state. It will also identify the heritage sectors.
It will establish dialogue and research work with prestigious arts, culture and education related institutions of national level. The Council will integrate fellowships and awards given to cultural workers and institutions in various disciplines.