Jammu: Stressing on the importance of cultural and intellectual engagement of youth, Deputy Chief Minister Dr. Nirmal Singh said involvement of children and youth in cultural activities helps in channelizing their energy towards a right perspective.
The Deputy CM was speaking at the culminating day of four-day long “Celebrating Childhood” festival organised by Natrang at Abhinav Theatre, Jammu.
During the program, the Deputy CM felicitated two talented children from Jammu, Vrinda Gujral and Satyam Mehra, who proved their mettle in a talent show, Sabse Bada Kalakaar, telecasted on Sony TV.
Minister of State for Culture Priya Sethi, Natrang Director Balwant Thakur, Additional Secretary, Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages Dr. Arvinder Amn, ADC Arun Manhas, senior leader Mamta Singh and other prominent citizens were present in the program.
While addressing the gathering, the Deputy CM said Theatre imbibes confidence in children and motivates them to take any challenge head-on in life. The government has taken many path-breaking steps to provide platform to children to hone their skills and display talent at national and international level, he added.
Appreciating Vrinda Gujral who emerged as runner-up in Sabse Bada Kalakaar, Dr. Singh said her talent is out of this World and she will definitely reach commanding heights in her life.
Speaking on the occasion, Priya Sethi asked the Academy and gathering to promote Vrinda’s talent and her feat on social media so that the message reaches every part of the State. She asked JKAACL to put out hoardings and banners to highlight talented girl’s achievement.
She further said the government will establish a Writers Club in Jammu soon so that the intellectuals get a common place to discuss ideas and views for the cultural advancement of the State.
Later, the Deputy CM handed over certificates to the children who participated in the “Celebrating Childhood” festival.
