Haryana’s Energy, Transport & Labour Minister, Sh. Anil Vij urged to the people that “Today, bitterness is increasing in marital and family life. Sociologists and socially aware people must step forward to eliminate this growing issue.” He further emphasized the need to rebuild the social fabric and said that “Earlier, people used to sit together and talk, but now everyone has become isolated.
We need to break these walls and strengthen our communities by joining hands." He added that “We must step outside our homes and eliminate these social distances.” Moreover, he underlined the importance of art by saying that “The flow of art must always continue, as theatre and art are the best mediums to portray social evils.”
Sh. Vij was addressing the people after the performance of the play "Putla" at the Open Air Theatre in Subhash Park, Ambala, organized by the Kaladhara Group. He announced to release of Rs. 5 lakh from his discretionary fund to the group. Speaking about the play, he praised the performance and said that “The theme is well conceived and relates to the Ramayana.
It shows how, in the old systems, the powerful had control, but in truth, those who consider others puppets (putlas) are themselves puppets.”
Daily light, sound and laser shows will be projected on a lotus flower at Shaheedi Smarak – Vij
Sh. Vij said that he is happy to see cultural events being held regularly at Subhash Park’s Open Air Theatre, and mentioned that “There’s not a single week without an event now. I always wanted the people of my city to get a platform to showcase their talents, and that vision is becoming a reality.”
He also revealed that a similar Open Air Theatre is being built at Shaheedi Smarak, with a seating capacity of 2,000, where light, sound and laser shows will be presented daily on a lotus flower-shaped setup.
Social connections are disappearing, we must act to eliminate societal evils – Vij
He recalled how, in the past, theatre used to be a primary medium to communicate ideas to the masses and reflect societal issues. “But with the advent of television, things changed. We have become confined.
Earlier, we played outside, sat at the village chaupals, shared conversations – now it’s all gone. You no longer see kites flying or children playing games like gulli-danda. Today, people come home in the evening and sink into their screens. Social bonds are weakening, he asserted.”
He also commented on changing marital values, saying that “Earlier, marriages were arranged by parents and couples lived happily. Today, living alone has led to broken homes. Joint families used to exist and everyone contributed socially. But now, our social fibre has weakened, he said.”
Whatever funds are needed to improve the sound system at Subhash Park's Open Air Theatre will be provided– Vij
Sh. Vij assured that necessary funds will be provided to upgrade the sound system at the Subhash Park Open Air Theatre so that event organizers do not have to bring external equipment. He also directed that no VIP sofas be placed in the viewing area, and even VIPs should sit among the general audience to fully enjoy the performances and create unity.
On this occasion, Energy Minister Anil Vij also honoured the office bearers of the Kaladhara Group, the performers, Rotary Club President Kamalpreet Sabharwal, Khalsa School Principal KP Singh, Sanjeev Valaya and several others.