Protecting Arts is government’s responsibility: Minister Kandula Durgesh
The coalition government is committed to preserving and promoting India’s artistic and cultural heritage for future generations, said Minister Kandula Durgesh. On Sunday, the minister inaugurated the GMR Varalakshmi Kalakshetram at Vasthrapuri Colony in Rajam, Vijayanagaram district. On this occasion, he congratulated several artists and reaffirmed the government’s dedication to supporting the arts and artists through concrete initiatives.
Durgesh urged theatre groups to register formally, emphasizing that a central database of artists would help in extending government welfare schemes effectively. He assured that as someone personally passionate about the arts, he would work for the welfare of artists. He also mentioned that the suggestions given by Rajam MLA Kondru Murali regarding the upliftment of artists would soon be implemented. The minister instructed local leaders and Andhra Pradesh Nataka Academy Chairman Gummadi Gopalakrishna to prepare an action plan for the development of the arts sector. He pledged to take related issues to Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan for swift resolution.
Speaking on the essence of art, Minister Durgesh said that true art is a blend of expression, gesture, and speech. “Art is what captivates audiences through beauty, voice, and emotion,” he added. He stressed the importance of preserving dying art forms and honoring artists while passing on the significance of art to future generations. He observed that literature, culture, and art festivals play a key role in building a sustainable and culturally rich society and urged today’s youth to understand the true value of art.
Criticizing the previous government for neglecting art and artists, Durgesh said the coalition government is reviving cultural traditions and protecting the self-respect of artists. He recalled an artist’s grievance that their special pension was merged with general pensions under the earlier regime, stripping them of recognition as artists. “Artists value respect more than money. Their pensions must reflect their identity as artists,” the minister quoted. He assured that this mistake would be rectified soon and pensions would once again be issued as honorary allowances specifically for artists.
North A* *ndhra -The land of Art
The minister highlighted that the coalition government is taking strong steps to extend full support to artists across Andhra Pradesh. He said the government’s approach toward art and culture is highly positive, conducting numerous programs to revive and sustain artistic traditions. Artists will also be honored with awards, he added.
Durgesh mentioned that during his meetings with Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, he requested the allocation of the National School of Drama (NSD) to Andhra Pradesh. The proposal has received in-principle approval, and the NSD is expected to be established in the state soon. He noted that many legendary actors, including Naseeruddin Shah, emerged from the NSD.
Speaking about the cultural richness of Uttarandhra, Durgesh described it as a region that inspired social movements through art. He praised the region’s unique dialect and its captivating folk songs. Referring to revolutionary poet Vangapandu Prasada Rao, the minister quoted his popular folk verses that once energized the masses, saying, “True folk art reflects the pulse of the people.”
Support for Artists
Minister Durgesh lauded MLA Kondru Murali for “bringing Diwali a day early” for artists by standing as their pillar of support. He also appreciated Padma Nataka Padmashri Yadla Gopal Rao, who not only donated land but also played a key role in constructing the Kalakshetram.
Durgesh said the GMR Varalakshmi Kalakshetram would serve as an excellent platform for many artists and suggested that week-long cultural festivals be held there regularly to sustain artistic activities. He assured full cooperation from the AP Department of Culture in popularizing theatre and other traditional art forms.
The minister also commended the idea of setting up a dedicated training room within the Kalakshetram to teach folk arts and Kuchipudi dance, calling it a commendable step. He expressed pride that the initiative aims to train young talents into well-rounded artists capable of showcasing the greatness of Telugu culture to the world.
From NTR to Pawan Kalyan -The legacy continues
Minister Durgesh remarked that Uttarandhra and Rajahmundry are the true birthplaces of Telugu art. He pledged to take necessary measures to advance the artistic sector further. With a touch of humor, he said, “The Telugu Desam Party was founded by the legendary actor NTR, and the Jana Sena Party was founded by a modern-day actor-leader, Pawan Kalyan-I proudly belong to both traditions.”
He stated that the coalition government is making remarkable progress and reaffirmed that nurturing artists is the government’s responsibility. He promised to ensure due recognition and respect for the artists of North Andhra.
Minister Durgesh was warmly welcomed on his arrival in Rajam by MLA Kondru Murali, Nellimarla MLA Lokam Madhavi, Jana Sena district in-charge Pogiri Suresh, and other coalition leaders. The event was attended by Palakonda MLA Jayakrishna, Nataka Academy Chairman Gummadi Gopalakrishna, AMC Chairman Burra Narayan Rao, Padma Nataka Padmashri Yadla Gopal Rao, and several artists and cultural enthusiasts.