President Droupadi Murmu Celebrates Art’s Social Impact at Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards Ceremony

New Delhi:  President Droupadi Murmu, today, conferred the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowships and Awards for the years 2022 and 2023, highlighting the profound societal impact of art.

Addressing the gathering, President Murmu emphasized that art transcends its aesthetic appeal, asserting that it serves a broader social purpose. She drew attention to historical instances where artists wielded their creative expressions as tools for societal welfare, contributing significantly to the awakening of communities through their creations. The President underlined Indian art as a prime example of the nation’s soft power.

In light of the rising prevalence of mental health issues, President Murmu identified a potential cause in society’s emphasis on material happiness over spirituality. She asserted that a connection with art fosters creativity and provides a pathway to discovering truth, offering profound meaning to life.

President Murmu commended the role of art and artists in weaving the diverse fabric of India into a cohesive thread of unity, thereby fulfilling the fundamental duties enshrined in the Constitution. She highlighted the significant contribution of the artistic community in shaping the cultural identity of the nation.

Applauding the efforts of Sangeet Natak Akademi over the past seven decades, the President expressed appreciation for the institution’s pivotal role in promoting various art forms, both in the realm of performing arts and intangible heritage. She underscored the importance of preserving and promoting India’s rich cultural tapestry.

In a moment of congratulation, President Murmu extended her best wishes to all the recipients of the Akademi’s Fellowship and Awards. She expressed confidence that the awardees would continue to enrich the Indian art tradition across diverse forms and genres of music and drama, contributing to the nation’s cultural legacy.

The ceremony was attended by eminent personalities from the world of arts, culture, and politics, creating a vibrant atmosphere celebrating the resilience and impact of India’s artistic heritage.