Festival of Bharat Parva soon to take off in big cities; PM Narendra Modi gives his nod

NEW DELHI: The government is planning to host Bharat Parva, a festival of India-type of programmes, aimed at reviving the cultural milieu in Indian cities. The proposal, learnt to have been blessed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is expected to take off in some of the big Indian cities this year itself.

The ministry of culture organises ‘Festivals of India’ overseas as part of its larger initiative to build on the ‘India’ brand by showcasing the culture and heritage of the country.

“The idea is to revive culture in India which will also help boost domestic tourism. While we have huge tourism potential and such a rich cultural heritage, it is hardly tapped. Why should an Indian child go out and see other countries… he must be exposed to the rich Indian heritage and culture. The Bharat Parva aims to do just that,” Union Culture Minister Mahesh Sharma confirmed to ET.

The minister added that Bharat Parva is expected to be a financially viable project, and will help foster a spirit of cultural exchange within the states of India.

The Festivals of India events that are celebrated abroad are a mix of dance performances, musical shows, besides literary meets and other theme-based cultural events and exhibitions.

The aim is to replicate such events in India as well. There will be similar performances in metro cities to start with, and then we will assess if they can be scaled up to smaller cities as well, said a senior official from the ministry of culture.

“It will allow people in India access to the great cultural performances and shows that India hosts abroad. Also, it will help revive the much needed cultural space in our cities — so, someone in Delhi will be able to understand the elements unique to the culture of Assam and Arunchal Pardesh as well,” added the official who did not wish to be identified.