The Government of India has been working to preserve and promote our cultural heritage for the past 10 years. One of their initiatives is the Sangeet Natak Akademi (SNA), which focuses on preserving and promoting India’s diverse culture expressed through music, dance, and drama. To further promote South India’s rich cultural heritage, the Ministry of Culture plans to establish a Regional Centre of Sangeet Natak Akademi in Hyderabad, called Dakshin Bharat Sanskritikkendra.
G Kishan Reddy, the Union Minister of Tourism, Culture, and DoNER, expressed his pride in strengthening South India’s intangible cultural heritage through this dedicated cultural center.
Currently, the Sangeet Natak Akademi does not have a presence in South India. The new center in Hyderabad will focus on promoting research and documentation of music, folk and tribal arts, theater, and puppetry. It aims to become a leading cultural space that fosters the cultural growth of the state.
The Ministry of Culture recently celebrated the 100th birth anniversary of Ghantasala Venkateswara Rao, a legendary musician, freedom fighter, and Padma Awardee. Ghantasala’s music and voice continue to be cherished by music lovers worldwide. In recognition of his contributions, the Sangeet Natak Akademi plans to build an auditorium named “Bharat Kala Mandapam” within the Dakshin Bharat Sanskritikkendra in Hyderabad.
The foundation stone for the auditorium and the inauguration of the South India Cultural Centre will take place on February 12 at Shilpa Kala Vedika, Hitech City, Hyderabad. The event will include a cultural program celebrating Ghantasala’s contributions. Former Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and G Kishan Reddy will inaugurate the center.
During the event, the Ministry of Culture will also honor the recent Padma awardees from the Telugu States, including the Padma Vibhushan and Padma Shri awardees.
