GUWAHATI: In a bid to provide a platform and nurture local talent, the Assam government has charted plans for a grand cultural series titled “Assam Sanskritik Mahasangram”. Slated to kick off on October 25, the event is anticipated to span across 3,000 venues, engaging approximately 10 lakh participants from diverse corners of the state before culminating in February 2024.
Revealing this news, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, on Tuesday, officially introduced the logo, theme song, memento, jingle, certificate, and the kit for judges specifically designed for the cultural extravaganza.
“The Mahasangram is not merely a cultural event, but an effort to spotlight the abundant inherent talents of our state. Our objective is to foster holistic personality development among our youth, ensuring they receive the recognition they deserve,” Sarma told the press, elaborating on the rationale behind organising the event.
Commenting on the financial commitment, Sarma disclosed an allocation of Rs 36 crore by the state government to ensure the event’s success. He added that the state’s cultural affairs department has been directed to organise the extravaganza.
In an advisory, the Chief Minister has also asked those involved in making the event a success to refrain from soliciting donations for the series. He also hinted the possibility for each MLA to divert up to 10% of their local area development funds towards the event.
Chief Minister Sarma added that the Mahasangram is envisaged as a vehicle for cultural empowerment, aligning with the government’s aspirations to expedite the holistic development of all Assam’s residents.
The contest will segregate participants into three age-group categories, offering a platform for a myriad of artistic expressions. The categories will encompass Jyoti Sangeet, Bishnu Rabha Sangeet, Bhupendra Sangeet, Rabindra Sangeet, Bihu Dance (group), and Folk Dance (group).