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What Are the Specific Programs Organized by Zonal Cultural Centers to Preserve Vanishing Art Forms?

The rich cultural heritage of India is a tapestry woven with diverse and vibrant art forms, many of which are at risk of vanishing due to modernization and changing societal preferences. To combat this, the Government of India has established several Zonal Cultural Centers (ZCCs) across the country. These centers play a pivotal role in preserving, promoting, and propagating the unique and traditional art forms that are on the brink of extinction. Here’s an in-depth look at the specific programs organized by these ZCCs to preserve vanishing art forms.

1. Guru Shishya Parampara Scheme

The Guru Shishya Parampara Scheme is a cornerstone initiative aimed at preserving traditional art forms through the ancient Indian tradition of mentorship. Under this program, highly skilled and veteran artists (Gurus) are identified to train young and aspiring artists (Shishyas) in various rare and vanishing art forms. The training is conducted in a traditional Gurukula setting, ensuring that the nuances and intricacies of the art are passed down meticulously.

• Monthly Remuneration: Gurus receive a monthly honorarium of Rs. 7,500, while accompanists receive Rs. 3,750 and pupils Rs. 1,500 each.
• Duration: The training period ranges from six months to one year, ensuring comprehensive learning.

2. Theatre Rejuvenation Program

The Theatre Rejuvenation Program is designed to revive and promote traditional theatre forms, many of which are fading away. This program includes stage shows, production-oriented workshops, and other theatrical activities.

• Honorarium: Up to Rs. 30,000 per show, excluding travel and daily allowances.
• Selection Criteria: Theatre groups are selected based on their credentials and the merit of their project proposals.

3. Research and Documentation

To ensure that traditional art forms are not lost to time, the ZCCs focus extensively on research and documentation. This program involves:

• Audio-Visual Recording: Detailed recording of performances, techniques, and practices of rare art forms.
• Printed Materials: Publishing books, research papers, and articles that document the history, techniques, and cultural significance of these arts.
• Digital Archives: Creating digital repositories to preserve these art forms for future generations.

4. Shilpgram Program

Shilpgram, or the crafts village program, aims to promote and support folk and tribal art and crafts. It involves:

• Craft Fairs and Exhibitions: Organizing events where artisans can showcase and sell their crafts, providing them with a broader market reach.
• Workshops and Seminars: Conducting educational workshops and seminars to train new artisans and educate the public about the significance of these crafts.
• Design Development: Assisting artisans in modernizing their designs while retaining traditional techniques to appeal to contemporary markets.

5. National Cultural Exchange Program

The National Cultural Exchange Program (NCEP) is essential for showcasing the diversity of Indian art forms across the country. Through this program:

• Festivals and Performances: ZCCs organize festivals and cultural performances where artists from various regions are invited to perform, providing them with exposure and recognition.
• State Participation: Artists from one state participate in cultural events in another state, fostering cultural exchange and mutual appreciation.

6. Octave - Festival of North East

The Octave festival specifically aims to promote the rich cultural heritage of the North Eastern states of India, which are home to many unique and vanishing art forms. This festival:

• Cultural Showcases: Features performances, exhibitions, and workshops by artists from Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Sikkim, Nagaland, Manipur, and Tripura.
• Interstate Exchange: Encourages artists from these states to perform across India, highlighting their cultural heritage and gaining a wider audience.

7. Documentation of Vanishing Art Forms

Specific projects are undertaken to document art forms that are on the verge of extinction. This includes: