The Hampi Utsav will be held from February 13 to 15, and artists from different fields such as music, culture, art, and drama will be given equal opportunities in the programmes, said District Commissioner Kavita S. Mannikeri.
She gave this assurance during a preliminary meeting with local artists, associations, and organisations at her office on Monday. It has been decided to organise the festival more specially and innovatively compared to last year, and preparations are underway accordingly. The DC responded to theatre artiste Manjamma Jogati, who expressed strong displeasure over local artists being ignored on the main stage.
“Hampi Utsav brings together a large number of artistes. Local artistes will be properly screened, and genuine and qualified artistes will be given priority. Your cooperation is important for this,” she said.
Manjamma Jogati said, “Earlier, there was less funding and fewer facilities, yet the festival was conducted neatly. Now, despite having everything, it is not being organised properly. Only film stars and well-known artistes are allowed on the main stage, while local artistes like us are neglected. Instead of this discriminatory approach, everyone should be treated equally and given equal chances.”
No advance payment:
Responding to a demand from an artist for advance payment, District Collector Kavita said that a proposal has been sent to the government seeking a grant of ₹22 crore for the festival, and there is currently a shortage of funds. Therefore, an advance payment cannot be made. She said the remuneration would be paid in a single instalment once the funds are released by the government.
It was suggested that a platform be created for arts like leather puppetry and silk puppetry, and that exhibitions on organic farming and seasonal grains should be organised. A special lecture on these topics was also proposed.
The DC said the festival would be held within government norms. However, efforts would be made to accommodate the suggestions as far as possible and ensure the festival is organised properly in every way.
Zilla Panchayat CEO Nongjoy Mohammad Ali Akram Shah, Sub-Divisional Officer P. Vivekananda, Assistant Director of the Kannada and Culture Department Siddalingesh Rangannavar, and others were present.
‘Understand the hardships of the disabled.’
“The parking system at the Hampi festival creates difficulties for the blind and differently abled, as the main stage is far from the parking area. Without a transport pass facility, reaching the main stage becomes impossible. It was suggested at the meeting that the district administration should take note of this and make alternative arrangements.”