Maharashtra to Implement New Regulations for Folk Art Centres

Synopsis
Maharashtra Minister Ashish Shelar has announced new regulations for folk art centres to protect the state's cultural heritage. The rules will mandate traditional instruments and promote training for new folk artists. Additionally, a new museum in Kolhapur will celebrate Marathi cinema's rich history.
Key Takeaways
- New regulations for folk art centres will be enforced.
- Mandatory use of traditional instruments at these centres.
- A training program to nurture new folk artists will be launched.
- A grand museum in Kolhapur will preserve Marathi cinema's heritage.
- Promotion of cultural tourism through short films is planned.
Mumbai, Feb 10 (NationPress) Maharashtra Minister of Cultural Affairs Ashish Shelar announced on Monday that the state government is set to implement new regulations for folk art centres to protect the state's rich folk art and ensure the vitality of this cultural heritage.
According to Shelar, the Cultural Affairs Department will establish regulations that require the exclusive use of traditional instruments at folk art centres throughout the state. The revenue and police departments will be instructed to take prompt action to enforce these measures, and district collectors will be tasked with initiating the necessary steps.
This decision was made during a meeting chaired by the minister to address the concerns and requests of folk artists in Maharashtra.
“We have received complaints regarding the use of DJs and modern sound systems rather than traditional instruments at these centres. If violations are discovered, district collectors and police will be mandated to take strict action against those accountable. Additionally, there is a lack of folk artists, ‘Lavani’ performers, and other traditional artists at these centres. To rejuvenate and promote these art forms, a specialized training program will be launched in honor of Late Padma Shri Yamunabai Waikar, aimed at cultivating a new generation of folk artists,” he stated.
In another announcement, Shelar revealed that Kolhapur, the birthplace of Marathi cinema, will soon be home to a grand museum at the Kolhapur Chitra Nagari (Kolhapur Film City) to celebrate and preserve its cinematic heritage.
This museum will showcase invaluable memorabilia, including historic documents from the golden age of cinema, classic films, iconic posters, vintage cameras, costumes, scripts, and more. A high-level meeting with the board of directors of Kolhapur Chitra Nagari Corporation took place with the cultural affairs minister.
Shelar stressed that the new museum at Kolhapur Chitra Nagari will be crucial in preserving the rich history of Marathi cinema, enabling future generations to appreciate and connect with its illustrious legacy.
He also emphasized the significance of promoting cultural tourism and suggested producing short films to be shared on social media platforms for broader outreach and awareness about the history of Marathi cinema.
To ensure the effective operation of the Kolhapur Chitra Nagari Corporation, the necessary recruitment mechanisms have been approved. Shelar highlighted the need to bring in architects with expertise in film city development from external sources, given the various developmental projects currently in progress.