Hyderabad: In a significant move aimed at promoting and preserving South India’s rich cultural heritage, the Ministry of Culture is set to establish the first Regional Centre of Sangeet Natak Akademi in Hyderabad. This pioneering initiative, known as Dakshin Bharat Sanskritik Kendra, will be inaugurated by former Vice President Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu and Union Minister Sri G Kishan Reddy on February 12.
The establishment of this centre marks a historic milestone as it will be the first presence of Sangeet Natak Akademi in South India. Dedicated to the promotion, research, and documentation of music, folk and tribal arts, theater, and puppetry, the centre will serve as a state-of-the-art cultural hub fostering the growth of performing arts in the region.
Union Minister Sri G Kishan Reddy expressed pride in the initiative, stating, “It’s a matter of pride that South India’s rich and diverse intangible cultural heritage, renowned globally, will be further strengthened through this dedicated South India Cultural Centre of the Sangeet Natak Akademi.”
Additionally, the Ministry of Culture is commemorating the 100th birth anniversary of the legendary musician and freedom fighter, Sri Ghantasala Venkateswara Rao. As part of this celebration, the Sangeet Natak Akademi proposes the construction of an auditorium named “Bharat Kala Mandapam” within the Dakshin Bharat Sanskritik Kendra.
The foundation stone for the Bharat Kala Mandapam auditorium will be laid alongside the inauguration of the South India Cultural Centre at the CCRT Campus in Madhapur, Hyderabad. The event, scheduled for February 12 at 5:00 PM at Shilpa Kala Vedika, Hitech City, Hyderabad, will also feature a cultural program celebrating the contributions of Sri Ghantasala.
During the ceremony, the Ministry of Culture will honor the recent Padma awardees from the Telugu states, including Padma Vibhushan and Padma Shri awardees, further highlighting the rich cultural legacy of the region.
The establishment of the Dakshin Bharat Sanskritik Kendra underscores the government’s commitment to preserving and promoting India’s diverse cultural heritage, ensuring its preservation for future generations.