Young friends of culture

TALKING CULTURE has become fashionable in recent times. Self- acclaimed culture curators are a burgeoning tribe, taking up issues in their own flamboyant way. Nevertheless, a few institutions and individuals are involved in fostering timeless traditions in an ambience devoid of commercial considerations.

Dakshinachitra, the heritage centre at Muthukadu, for instance, has been rendering yeoman service to the arts through a ceaseless itinerary of workshops and festivals. The programmes are not just aimed at creating awareness among adults. There are a host of them targeting children too. True, for it is the young minds that are hit hard by the maelstrom of Western culture.

Dakshinachitra, which has thousands of students flocking to its premises, has started the club as part of its efforts "to inculcate awareness of the rich cultural traditions of the country." The programmes for children are designed in such a way that they are not just educational but also fun. "It is a unique concept which will enhance the child's interactive capabilities, personality, talent and traditional values."

Membership (Rs. 150) to the club is open to students in the age group of six to 15. Some of the offers to members include an entry fee waiver five times in a year, use of the Madras Crafts Foundation library, nominal charges for workshops, transport from the MCF and back etc. Club activities will be held on one Sunday in every month. This month, the club will focus on photography - techniques and tips to handle the camera.

The thrust on the participation of youngsters in culture-related activities goes beyond the launch of Young Friends of Dakshinachitra. There is a plethora of educational and cultural outreach programmes spread over four months.

These programmes "are linked with the school curriculum and are basically educational." Workshops on wind (a wind mill has also been installed!) and water, beginning this month, will make learning exciting through scientific experiments. There are special cultural workshops (pottery and folk dance and music) for special children too. An Ayyanar Festival scheduled from July 7 to 15 is another attraction. The festival will be marked by an Ayyanar procession, making of terracotta rodents and folk dance performance.

A Children's Mela from July 9 to August 10 will include several activities like bullock cart rides, cycle acrobats, demonstrations on glass blowing, pottery, palm leaf decoration, kolam etc.

And that's not all. There are more innovative programmes through which children can relish the richness of our culture. Call 4902412 for details.

T. KRITHIKA REDDY

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