Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated the centenary celebrations of Bhatkhande Sanskriti University in Lucknow, lighting the ceremonial lamp and highlighting the university’s historic contributions to Indian music and performing arts.
A Century of Cultural Excellence
Addressing the gathering, CM Yogi Adityanath praised the university for its journey from humble beginnings to becoming a beacon of Indian cultural consciousness. “Bhatkhande Sanskriti University today stands as a shining example of how culture and arts contribute to nation-building,” he said, congratulating the institution on reaching its 100th year.
He emphasized that culture forms the soul of the nation and that the university has preserved Indian music, theater, and arts over the past century. Referring to the vision of Pandit Vishnu Narayan Bhatkhande, the CM highlighted the importance of nurturing cultural education as a means of fostering national pride and identity.
Honoring Artistic Legacy
The event also celebrated notable alumni who have significantly contributed to Indian arts, including Kathak dancer Dr. Purnima Pandey, Padma Shri folk singer Malini Awasthi, vocalist Dilraj Kaur, and music composer Keval Kumar. Their achievements reflect the university’s century-long commitment to excellence in performing arts.
A coffee table book titled “A Legacy of Excellence” was also released, showcasing the university’s journey, historic photographs, and contributions to Indian music and culture.
Centenary Infrastructure and Future Plans
The Chief Minister announced that the state government has allocated six acres of land in Lucknow for the construction of a modern campus for Bhatkhande Sanskriti University. The new campus will feature open theaters, at least two auditoriums, a library, and research facilities, adhering to global standards for education and cultural studies. The existing building will be converted into a museum to preserve the university’s history and honor its distinguished teachers, students, and alumni.
CM Yogi Adityanath stressed that artists must be respected and provided with safe working environments, training opportunities, and employment support, reinforcing the government’s commitment to nurturing India’s cultural talent.
Celebrating Indian Cultural Consciousness
During the inauguration, the university’s students performed the university anthem, and a cultural exhibition was inaugurated along with a special commemorative cover released by the Indian Postal Department. The ceremony underscored how Bhatkhande Sanskriti University has, over generations, given Indian music and arts a renewed identity, blending tradition with contemporary recognition.
The centenary celebrations of Bhatkhande Sanskriti University mark a significant milestone in preserving India’s musical and cultural heritage and promoting national consciousness through arts.
Read also: UP CM Yogi Adityanath Warns of NSA Action Against Fertiliser Black Marketing to Protect Farmers
