A one-day painting workshop titled “Viksit Bharat ke Rang, Kala ke Sang” was held today at the iconic Gaiety Theatre in Shimla. The event was organized by the Lalit Kala Akademi Sub-Centre under the aegis of Lalit Kala Akademi, New Delhi, Ministry of Culture, Government of India. The theme focused on “Building a Developed India through Arts and Traditions.”
Hon’ble Governor of Himachal Pradesh, Shiv Pratap Shukla, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Addressing the gathering, the Governor emphasized that art and culture are vital pillars in the journey towards a developed India (Viksit Bharat@2047). He described artists as cultural ambassadors, whose creativity and vision have the power to inspire generations and bring development closer to the people.
He highlighted how various flagship programmes like the Swachh Bharat Mission, PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi, and Jan Dhan Yojana have contributed significantly to India’s transformation under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. These initiatives, he said, are making every citizen an active stakeholder in the national development mission.
He further urged artists to use their talents not only to achieve artistic brilliance but also to promote social harmony, nationalism, and development through their work. He expressed confidence that India’s artistic community will continue to play a critical role in positioning the country as a global cultural powerhouse.
Earlier in the day, Governor Shukla visited Shimla’s historic Ridge Ground, where he interacted with young painters participating in live art demonstrations.
Nand Lal Thakur, Vice-Chairman of Lalit Kala Akademi, New Delhi, provided an overview of the programme.
Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur also addressed the event, echoing the importance of linking art and culture with India’s development journey. MLAs Balbir Verma, Dr. Janak Raj, and several other dignitaries were present during the programme.
