17 artists felicitated by Jharkhand government

Ranchi, Mar 31 (UNI) For the first time after creation of the state, the Jharkhand government today felicitated 17 artists of the state for their valuable contribution to the folk art and other cultural acitivities.

Among the artists, who were felicitated, were Padmashree Kedarnath Sahu (Saraikela-Chau), Padmashree Syamcharan Pati (Ssaraikela), Javnarain Samal (Sarikela-Chau), Mohan Rao (Dumka), Haren Thakur (Ranchi), Mukund Nayak (Balalong-folk dence), Yoshoda Devi (Khunti) and Chetan Joshi (Bokaro flute). Each received a citation, Rs 10,000 in cash and a shawl.

Speaking at the function, home and cultural affairs minister Sudesh Mahato said the government would set up a cultural centre to train the young artists of the state.

A seminar would also be organised next month to discuss on development of arts and culture in the state, he added.

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