Minister Shri Kapil Mishra Holds Interactive Meeting with Artists to Promote and Preserve Art and Culture

New Delhi: May 28, 2025 – Delhi Government’s Minister of Art, Culture, Language, and Tourism, Shri Kapil Mishra, held a special interactive meeting today with renowned artists from various artistic disciplines at the Delhi Secretariat. The primary objective of the meeting was to engage in dialogue with the artists, listen to their ideas, and incorporate them into the government’s upcoming initiatives.

Mr. Mishra stated that a new government has come to power in Delhi with overwhelming public support. This government is committed to advancing the vision of the Honorable Prime Minister. He emphasized that no nation or society can be complete without its art, culture, and language, and making Delhi a leading center in this domain is a top priority.

He acknowledged the immense contribution of artists in nurturing and advancing culture, while also candidly admitting that the government’s contribution in the past has been minimal and insufficient. He remarked that in recent years, the focus on art and culture has significantly declined, and this must be rectified.

Through an inspiring anecdote, Minister Mishra underlined the importance of art and culture. He narrated how, during a time of war, Napoleon considered cutting the budget for the arts to meet resource demands, but was advised against it—being told that a state devoid of art and culture is not truly victorious.

The meeting was attended by senior artists from the fields of film, music, theater, performing arts, devotional music, and singing—some of whom have been honored with prestigious awards like the Padma Bhushan. Minister Mishra warmly welcomed all the artists and personally went to their seats to greet and honor them, a gesture that was met with thunderous applause throughout the auditorium.

Artists proposed that art and culture-related events be organized in all legislative constituencies to provide platforms for emerging talent. They also suggested the construction of a cultural complex dedicated to talented artists living in slum areas. Additionally, they demanded the creation of a dedicated digital portal for artist registration and recognition.

The artists emphasized the need for a comprehensive and permanent cultural infrastructure, stating that a strong foundation for the development of art and culture is essential in a metropolis like Delhi.

Minister Kapil Mishra listened attentively to all suggestions and assured swift action on the issues raised. He announced that the Delhi Government will organize two to three major cultural festivals annually, providing opportunities for emerging artists to showcase their talents and for esteemed artists to perform in the capital.

This meeting is being seen as a new beginning in the collaboration between the government and the artistic community, which is expected to accelerate efforts to establish Delhi as a hub of art, culture, and creativity.

Furthermore, Minister Kapil Mishra facilitated a meeting between the artists and Delhi’s Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, who warmly welcomed the artists and assured full support from the government in the future.