New Delhi, April 2 (NationPress) BJP MP Hema Malini has addressed a letter to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, voicing her apprehensions about what she referred to as a “rising trend of cultural fascism” in West Bengal, while also highlighting significant concerns regarding the liberties of artists in the region.

In her correspondence dated March 28, now made public, Hema Malini expressed her profound sense of distress, worry, and helplessness.

"I write to you burdened with deep anguish, concern, and a sense of helplessness. My words reflect not just the sentiments of a Member of Parliament, but also those of an individual who has dedicated her life to upholding, promoting, and practicing India’s vibrant cultural legacy, particularly in classical dance. This passion has been my driving force since childhood, and thanks to divine favor, I have had numerous opportunities to follow this passion throughout my life. For me, culture is a sacred obligation, a means to uphold our civilizational values, and a bridge that unites people," stated Hema Malini.

She expressed that it is deeply upsetting to observe what she describes as a growing trend of cultural fascism within West Bengal.

"It is profoundly disheartening to see what can only be termed a rising trend of cultural fascism in West Bengal. This is paradoxical, considering West Bengal has historically represented a beacon of art, literature, and sophisticated cultural expression. Kolkata, in particular, has always been synonymous with intellectual richness and artistic excellence. I have always regarded the people of West Bengal and Kolkata as having an exceptional appreciation for culture. However, the occurrences of recent years have caused significant distress to artists and cultural practitioners across the nation," she added.

Hema Malini cited specific incidents, noting that on March 15, a planned performance of a Draupadi dance drama at the Dhono Dhanyo Auditorium in Kolkata was unexpectedly cancelled at the last moment.

"I would like to formally record some recent occurrences. On March 15, we were set to perform a Draupadi Dance Drama at the esteemed Dhono Dhanyo Auditorium in Kolkata. Unfortunately, the performance was abruptly cancelled, with shifting and inconsistent explanations provided, including logistical issues and references to an Election Commission press conference," she mentioned.

She further noted that permission to use Science City Hall was denied, citing that the Prime Minister was in the city and had events scheduled at that venue.

"Likewise, permission to use Science City Hall was refused, claiming that the Honourable Prime Minister was in town and had scheduled programs at the venue. This was despite the fact that no event of his was scheduled at Science City. His engagements were at a different location and unrelated to the venue in question. Having organized Prime Ministerial visits in my constituency, I know that such visits do not disrupt other events, especially those not closely situated to the venue," she emphasized.

Hema Malini also claimed that these incidents are not isolated.

"What is most tragic is that these events do not stand alone. Over the years, there has been a consistent pattern in West Bengal. Permissions for cultural events are often delayed or denied, frequently at the last moment, causing uncertainty and disruption for artists and organizers," she asserted.

Expressing concerns about safety, she remarked that performing in West Bengal has increasingly become a source of anxiety due to insufficient security assurances over the past eight to nine years.

"Equally alarming is the matter of safety and security. In the past eight to nine years, performing in West Bengal has become a cause for concern, with inadequate safety assurances," she claimed.

She noted that this situation not only affects artists but also has a severe impact on the livelihoods of many performers who rely on such opportunities for their sustenance.

"For me and those performing, this situation does not only affect artists but also greatly impacts the lives of numerous performers, many of whom come from modest backgrounds and depend on such opportunities for their survival. This environment is both unfortunate and unacceptable," Hema Malini commented.

Reflecting on her extensive experience, she stated that she has performed throughout India for decades and that her programs are strictly cultural in nature, devoid of any political context. She mentioned that leaders from various parties have attended her events and extended their appreciation.

"I have had the honor of performing across India for decades. These events are purely cultural. They are non-political and aimed solely at celebrating our shared heritage. Culture, by its very nature, should unite us. In many of my events, Union Ministers, Chief Ministers, MPs, and MLAs from various political backgrounds have attended. Their words of appreciation have inspired us all to strive even harder. If I, as a five-time Member of Parliament, feel a sense of insecurity and helplessness in such circumstances, one can only imagine the plight of countless other artists," she added.

She urged for cultural spaces to remain free from political influence, asserting that while political differences may exist, the preservation and celebration of the country’s cultural heritage should be a collective priority.

"I earnestly call for cultural spaces to be kept free from political influence. We may contest vigorously in the electoral arena, but we must transcend differences when it comes to preserving and celebrating our shared cultural legacy," she concluded.