Dehradun News: Even though the auditorium located at Haridwar Bypass of Art and Culture Department has been equipped with high-end facilities, but even after two years neither the board of the department nor the name of the auditorium has been given.
It was announced by the then Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat in the year 2020 to name this auditorium built at a cost of five crores after the famous folk singer late Jit Singh Negi. But after this the government did not show seriousness in this direction.
Slow pace of work due to release of budget in small installments
With the aim of saving the folk culture and giving a platform to the artists, the Art and Culture Department laid the foundation stone of the auditorium in the year 2011 near Akashvani Bhawan on Haridwar bypass.
The task of construction was handed over to the Drinking Water Corporation, but due to release of budget in small installments, the pace of work remained slow. Built in June 2020, this auditorium with a capacity of 270 spectators has been equipped with high-end facilities. 270 luxurious chairs have been installed.
Apart from this, better quality light and sound systems have been installed and the exterior has been given a hilly look. Talking about bookings, so far six programs have been organized in addition to art exhibition on 21st Bharat Rang Mahotsav, World Museum Day.
The main reason for low booking has been lack of publicity and rate not being fixed by the department. On the other hand, the artist who worked for the culture of Uttarakhand and after his death, the auditorium is not being recognized anywhere even after the announcement in his name.
What do folk artists say
Hema Negi Karasi, folk singer, says, “I would like that whenever there is an announcement, its work should be completed by the government or departmental level. Late Jit Singh Negi played an important role in preserving the culture of Uttarakhand through folk songs.” Played a role. In such a situation, whatever pending works should be completed.
Kishan Mahilapal, folk singer, says, “Artists have to book hotels from outside for conferences, programs and other events. While the Culture Department has auditoriums, the benefits of which should also be given to the artists. This will give recognition to the artists and auditoriums.” There won’t even be desolation in me.”
Bina Bhatt, Director, Department of Culture says, “The auditorium has been built for artists to set up a stage and perform various programmes. The work of giving it a hill look was going on which was completed recently. Have got it made which will be installed by the end of this year.”
