Folk arts reflect our way of life, says MP Kanimozhi at ‘Neithal' festival

The Hindu

a day ago

Folk arts are deeply rooted in our lives and these reflect in our lifestyle, said Lok Sabha member Kanimzohi Karunanidhi while attending the inaugural event of 'Neithal' folk arts festival held at V.O.C College ground in Thoothukudi.
Addressing the gathering, Ms. Kanimozhi said that while people often label these as rural or folklore, they are in fact the art forms of the people capturing their lifestyle, experiences, sorrows, happiness and everything in between.
She emphasised that 'Koothu' forms and other rural folk arts as powerful expressions that closely imitate real life and reflect it through the perspective of people themselves.
Ms. Kanimozhi also highlighted how the songs of the tribal communities reflect the wide range of flowers and plants found in their surroundings. Similarly, folk songs of 'Neithal', the region where the lives of the people center around the sea and the shore, captures the details of marine life, fishing methods and nets much of which remain unfamiliar to many, she mentioned.
She stressed the preserving and passing these art forms on to future generations, as they offer deep insights into traditional knowledge and way of life.
The first day of the festival began with a ceremonial music performance by students of Thoothukudi Government School, followed by Bharatanatyam performance and other cultural performances.
In addition to the performances, over 40 stalls have been set up at the venue featuring traditional cuisine, products by women Self Help Groups and crafts by local artisans.
Social Welfare and Women Empowerment Minister P. Geetha Jeevan, Thoothukudi Corporation Mayor Jegan Periyasamy, District Collector K. Elambahavath, Corporation Commissioner L. Madhubalan, Superintendent of Police Albert John were among the dignitaries present at the event.