New Delhi, 21 October (H.S.): President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday emphasised the need to provide young and emerging artists with adequate opportunities to develop their talent, explore new artistic mediums and expand their creative potential. She said art should not remain confined to galleries but should reach schools, universities, public spaces and wider sections of society.

The President presented the Lalit Kala Akademi Awards to selected artists at the 65th National Art Exhibition in New Delhi. She also honoured the Grand Prize winners and artists who received Honourable Mentions at the Third Print Biennale India 2026. Union Minister of Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat was also present at the event.

Murmu said the awards ceremony celebrated India’s artistic heritage, cultural diversity and contemporary creativity. It showcased the country’s rich traditions across diverse art forms, creative energy and continuously evolving modes of artistic expression.

The President observed that art was not limited to paintings on canvas, sculptures carved in stone or creations produced through other mediums. Rather, she said, art reflected the culture of a society, embodying memories of the past, experiences of the present and aspirations for the future. It also helped people view and understand their times and society from new perspectives.

She stressed the need to provide traditional artists in remote areas with training in new technologies and contemporary artistic practices. Such initiatives, she said, would enable them to showcase their talent on wider platforms and participate in various competitions.

The President noted that artists today needed not only creative opportunities but also financial support, access to broader markets and avenues to connect with art collectors. She expressed satisfaction with the efforts being undertaken by the Lalit Kala Akademi and the Ministry of Culture to promote the sale of artworks.

Murmu urged all stakeholders to ensure that young and emerging artists received adequate opportunities to hone their skills, experiment with new artistic mediums and broaden their creative potential.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar