Latest news with #Parasparam
The Hindu
19-05-2025
- Politics
- The Hindu
CM urges artistes, writers to champion Kerala's cultural progress
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has stressed the crucial role of cultural, literary, and artistic voices in steering Kerala's progress, seeking the active involvement of stakeholders to enrich the State's social fabric. He was speaking at Parasparam, an interaction with cultural leaders held at Lulu Convention Centre in Thrissur on Monday, as part of the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government's fourth anniversary celebrations. 'Kerala continues to uphold secular values and humanitarian principles. Artistes and writers have historically played a transformative role in shaping a progressive society,' the Chief Minister said. However, he stressed the need for introspecting if such interventions continued with the same intensity today. 'Resist regressive forces' Highlighting Kerala's unique cultural identity, the Chief Minister underscored the contributions of social reformers such as Sree Narayana Guru in eradicating superstitions and promoting social awareness. He called upon cultural activists to stand united in resisting regressive forces and to act with clarity and conviction in defending the State's secular and progressive legacy. Addressing questions about the Nava Keralam vision, he clarified that it was not just about one-dimensional development but about inclusive growth that reached every section and corner of the State. 'We aim to elevate our society to match the living standards of middle-income countries, with a strong foundation in social commitment and public welfare,' he said. Mr. Vijayan said that the State would be free of extreme poverty by November 1, thanks to strengthened public distribution, education, and health-care systems. Inclusivity Cultural Affairs Minister Saji Cherian, in his address, described Parasparam as a tribute to the government's nine-year journey and the cultural community's support. 'Our government has rolled out several model initiatives for artistes, from the Vajra Jubilee Fellowship to extensive outreach in folk and tribal arts,' he said. Projects had been tailored for differently abled, coastal, tribal, and transgender artistes to ensure inclusivity in the cultural landscape, he added. The event began with a traditional welcome dance by the Guru Gopinath Natanagramam. Ministers K. Rajan and R. Bindu; Planning Board Vice-Chairman V.K. Ramachandran; K. Radhakrishnan, MP; Thrissur Mayor M.K. Varghese; P. Balachandran, A.C. Moideen, and Murali Perunelli, MLAs; district panchayat president V.S. Prince; Cultural Affairs Director Divya S. Iyer; and District Collector Arjun Pandian took part. Organised by the Department of Culture, over 2,500 cultural activists from 14 districts attended the event and 15 distinguished individuals were honoured on stage for their contributions.
The Hindu
18-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Hindu
CM to interact with cultural leaders at ‘Parasparam' on Monday
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will hold an interactive session with the cultural leaders and artists in an event titled 'Parasparam' here on Monday, in connection with the fourth anniversary of the second Pinarayi Vijayan government. The event will take place at the LuLu Convention Centre, Puzhakkal, Thrissur from 9 a.m.. Organised by the Department of Culture, the event is envisioned as a dialogue platform, continuing the spirit of initiatives like 'Nava Kerala Sadas' and 'Mukhamukham.' The goal of the programme is to rally State's cultural community around a shared vision of progress, creativity, and social reform, standing firm against regressive ideologies and reinforcing a humane, inclusive cultural identity. The event will be inaugurated by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, with Minister for Culture Saji Cherian presiding. Cultural Affairs Additional Chief Secretary Rajan N. Khobragade and director of Department of Culture Divya S. Iyer will address the gathering. Ministers K. Rajan and R. Bindu; Union Minister of State Suresh Gopi, MP; K. Radhakrishnan, MP; P. Balachandran, MLA; Thrissur Mayor M.K. Varghese; district panchayat president V.S. Prince; and District Collector Arjun Pandian will also attend the programme. A special highlight of the opening ceremony will be a traditional welcome dance presented by Guru Gopinath Natya Gramam. The event will also feature a cultural exhibition showcasing the vibrancy and evolution of Kerala's artistic landscape. Over 2,500 cultural activists from across Kerala's 14 districts are expected to participate in this creative exchange. The Chief Minister will directly respond to discussions and questions by the artists.
