A one-day painting workshop under the theme "Viksit Bharat ke Rang, Kala ke Sang" was organised today at the historic Gaiety Theatre, Shimla by the Lalit Kala Akademi Sub-Centre under the aegis of Lalit Kala Akademi, New Delhi, Ministry of Culture, Government of India. The theme of the programme was: Building a Developed India through Arts and Traditions.
Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Addressing the gathering, the Governor said that art and culture are powerful forces in shaping society and play a vital role in realising the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047 as articulated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
He described artists as cultural ambassadors whose creativity inspires future generations and carries the dream of a developed India to every citizen. Shri Shukla underlined that under the leadership of the Prime Minister, India has emerged as a respected global leader.
Referring to transformative initiatives such as the Swachh Bharat Mission, Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi and Jan Dhan Yojana, he said these programmes have given new momentum to the nation’s development journey. He noted that every Indian is becoming a stakeholder in the vision of making India a developed nation by the year 2047.
Supporting the Prime Minister’s call for adopting Swadeshi, he said such efforts strengthen national self-reliance and pride. The Governor urged artists to use their creativity not only for artistic excellence but also to promote harmony, patriotism and development.
He expressed confidence that the dedication and talent of Indian artists would help establish India as a global cultural power. Earlier in the day, the Governor visited the historic Ridge Ground in Shimla, where he encouraged young artists engaged in live painting.
Vice-Chairman of Lalit Kala Akademi, New Delhi, Nand Lal Thakur briefed about the programme. Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur also addressed the gathering. MLA Balbir Verma and Dr. Janak Raj, along with other dignitaries, were present at the event.