CM Mohan Yadav declares the restoration of Rangmandal at Bharat Bhavan.
CM Mohan Yadav emphasized that art is a powerful medium of expression, reflected not only in creative works but also in human behavior and emotions. He highlighted Madhya Pradesh’s rich artistic heritage, which has produced globally renowned artists. He credited Bharat Bhavan for elevating the state’s cultural prominence on the world stage. Speaking at the 43rd anniversary celebration of Bharat Bhavan during the State Shikhar Samman ceremony, he expressed pride in the institution’s legacy.
During the event, CM Mohan Yadav honored 15 distinguished artists with the State Shikhar Samman for 2022 and 2023, recognizing their exceptional contributions to various artistic fields. The awards included a shawl, coconut, plaque, and a cash prize of ₹2 lakh. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to preserving and promoting Madhya Pradesh’s cultural heritage, emphasizing that artists are the soul of society and deserve utmost respect.
Marking the occasion, CM Mohan Yadav announced the revival of Rangmandal, a significant initiative for theater enthusiasts. He stated that the return of Rangmandal would revitalize the theater scene, providing new opportunities for young artists and further strengthening the state’s artistic ecosystem. This announcement was met with enthusiasm from the artistic community, as Rangmandal has historically been a vital platform for nurturing theatrical talent in the state.
Culture, Tourism, and Religious Trust Minister Shri Dharmendra Singh Lodhi highlighted Bharat Bhavan’s role as a beacon of artistic and cultural revival in Madhya Pradesh. He emphasized the institution’s contributions to preserving traditions while empowering emerging artists.
Shri Vaman Kendri, Chairman of Bharat Bhavan’s Board of Trustees, described the institution as a hub for diverse art forms, playing a crucial role in positioning Bhopal as a leading cultural center in India. Principal Secretary of Culture and Tourism, Shri Shiv Shekhar Shukla, lauded Bharat Bhavan’s four-decade-long dedication to the arts, asserting its significance as an unparalleled center for artistic excellence.
The ceremony, attended by a large number of artists, intellectuals, and art enthusiasts, concluded with the Chief Minister visiting an art exhibition on the Bharat Bhavan premises.
State Shikhar Samman Awardees (2022-2023)
Fifteen artists were honored across nine disciplines:
- Hindi Literature: Dr. Urmila Shirish (2022)
- Urdu Literature: Shri Mahmood Ahmed Sahar (2023)
- Sanskrit Literature: Dr. Mithila Prasad Tripathi (2022), Dr. Govind Dattatreya Gandhe (2023)
- Classical Music: Vidushi Kalpana Jhorkar (2022), Vidushi Shashwati Mandal (2023)
- Classical Dance: Ms. Mohini Moghe Puchhwale (2022), Vidushi Bharti Hombeel (2023)
- Visual Arts: Shri Ishwarkir Raval (2022), Shri Hari Bhatnagar (2023)
- Dramatic Arts: Shri Shri Ram Jog (2022), Shri Satish Dave (2023)
- Tribal & Folk Arts: Shri Ramsingh Urveti (2022), Shri Kailash Sisodia (2023)
- Rare Instrument Playing: Pandit Sunil Pawgi (2023)
The event reinforced the state’s commitment to nurturing the arts and honoring the artists who keep cultural traditions alive.
