“Cultural Heritage Survives Only with Protection and Direction”: Prerna Shrimali at the Finale of ‘Batiyan Ki Gali’ Dialogue Series

Ananya soch: The fourth season of the acclaimed dialogue series Batiyan Ki Gali concluded at the Rajasthan International Centre with an insightful and thought-provoking conversation featuring internationally renowned Kathak exponent and Sangeet Natak Akademi Awardee Guru Prerna Shrimali. The programme was jointly organised by Curio, Rajasthan Forum and Tree Tradition, and focused on the present condition of art, culture and cultural institutions in India.

The evening commenced with a traditional Guru Vandana performed by Kathak dancer Manisha Gulyani, a disciple of Prerna Shrimali. In an engaging interaction led by the programme’s curator and young Bismillah Khan Awardee Priyadarshini Mishra, Prerna Shrimali emphasised that art has always required sustained patronage. “Without protection and a clear direction, preserving our cultural heritage is simply not possible,” she said.

Expressing concern over the deteriorating condition of the Jaipur Kathak Kendra, Prerna Shrimali noted that despite being over five decades old, the institution has failed to produce artists of national or state-level distinction. She stressed that cultural institutions thrive only under visionary leadership and well-defined objectives, which are currently lacking.

Commenting on the recent budget, she expressed disappointment over inadequate focus on art and culture. She observed that Indian classical and folk arts flourished under royal and later governmental patronage, but today are increasingly reduced to festivals and crowds, putting cultural continuity at risk.

On the growing attraction of the younger generation towards virtual platforms, she remarked that true artistic identity is built through sustained practice and discipline. “The virtual world is temporary and cannot replace authentic artistic contribution,” she asserted.

On the occasion, emerging tabla artist Mehraj Hussain was honoured with the Karmath Yuva Samman for his dedication, refined rhythm sense and consistent riyaaz. The event also witnessed emotional messages from noted writer and Balika Vadhu fame Purendu Shekhar, along with reflections shared by family members and distinguished guests, making the evening deeply moving and memorable.