Munish Sood
Mandi
Known as “Chhoti Kashi” and regarded as the cultural capital of Himachal Pradesh, Mandi once again resonated with its rich artistic legacy as leading cultural organisations convened to address the declining participation of youth in folk traditions, theatre, and music.
A seminar titled “Changing Era of Folk Culture, Theatre and Cinema: Declining Youth Interest and New Expectations” was organised at Tapas Academy under the chairmanship of senior artist Roop Upadhyay. Representatives from 11 prominent cultural institutions—including Mandavya Kala Manch, Navjyoti Sports and Cultural Art Forum, Saakh Society, Himachal Pradesh Cultural Research Institute, Utsav, Aakar Theatre Society, Shiv Gauri Kala Manch, Sabrang Kala Manch, and Prayas Kala Parishad—participated in the deliberations.
Speakers expressed concern over the diminishing interest of youth in traditional art forms such as folk music, drama, and stage performances. Despite Mandi’s deep cultural heritage rooted in temple traditions and performing arts, modern distractions and lack of institutional support were cited as major challenges weakening the local cultural ecosystem.
A key issue raised was the absence of a dedicated central space for rehearsals and performances, which participants said has led to stagnation in cultural activities. The forum unanimously resolved to form a unified cultural platform to collectively voice artists’ concerns and ensure better social, economic, and emotional support.
Another resolution included plans to organise joint cultural festivals and theatre events to revive public interest and strengthen collaboration among institutions. The forum also expressed concern over external organisations allegedly exploiting Himachal’s folk identity while sidelining local artists, calling for collective resistance against such practices.
