PM: Govt working to institutionalise global cultural initiatives in India

Modi said that his government is working to institutionalise global cultural initiatives and develop a modern system on the lines of similar events in cities like Venice, London and Sao Paulo, adding that such programmes should get a global identity as similar events in some of these cities.

“A lot of work has been going on with a sense of pride to develop places associated with Indian art and architecture,” he said, citing the development and renovation of Kedarnath and Mahakal, towards rejuvenating the country’s culture, architecture and artwork.

“India’s vibrant culture and ancient heritage attract tourists from all over the world,” he said. Art and culture have been sources of diversity as well as unity, he said, noting that India is a most diverse country. They also connect people and spread harmony, he added.

On the occasion, he announced the government’s plan to create “cultural spaces” in the five cities of Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Ahmedabad and Varanasi, as a historic start. The Biennale, he said, will serve as an introduction to the Cultural Space in Delhi.

The PM also inaugurated ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat Centre for Design’ at Red Fort and the student biennale – Samunnati. He also launched a commemorative stamp.

Addressing the gathering, the PM welcomed everyone to the World Heritage Site of the Red Fort and highlighted the historical significance of its courtyards which remain unwavering and indelible even though multiple generations have passed before and after India’s Independence.

He said that every nation is endowed with symbols of its own that introduce the world to the country’s past and its roots. He emphasised the role of art, culture and architecture in forging the connection with these symbols, calling Delhi a treasure trove of symbols that provide a glimpse of the rich architectural heritage of India. At the event, the PM recalled India’s “glorious past” when its economic prosperity was discussed around the world.

Speaking about the inauguration of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat Centre for Design, the Prime Minister said that it will provide a platform to promote unique and rare crafts of India while bringing together artisans and designers to help them innovate according to the market.

“Artisans will also gain knowledge about design development as well as become proficient in digital marketing”, the PM said.

He said that India is the most diverse nation in the world and the diversity binds us together. He noted that art, architecture and culture flourish only when there is freedom of thought in society and freedom to work in one’s own way. “With this tradition of debate and dialogue, diversity automatically flourishes. We welcome and support every kind of diversity”, the PM said as he highlighted the organisation of G-20 meetings in different states and cities of the country to showcase this diversity to the world.

“India’s economic growth is linked to the progress of the entire world and its vision of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ brings new opportunities”, the PM said. He noted that India’s revival in the field of art and architecture will also contribute to the nation’s cultural upliftment.

Union Minister for Culture, G Kishan Reddy, Union Ministers of State for Culture, Arjun Ram Meghwal and Meenakshi Lekhi were present. The IAADB is being organised from 9 to 15 December 2023 at Red Fort.