We need encouragement, recognition more than money: Kalyana Karnataka-based folk artist

Veteran folk artist and Rajyotsava award winner Hanifa M. Shaikh said that artists, particularly those from Kalyana Karnataka, need encouragement and recognition more than financial assistance to sustain and preserve traditional art forms.

Inaugurating the Interaction with Achievers programme organised by the Department of Kannada and Culture at the Rangayana auditorium in Kalaburagi on July 10, Ms. Shaikh said that while she had not amassed material wealth through art, she had earned an invaluable place in the hearts of the people.

Recalling her early struggles, she said folk art had been her lifeline during difficult days of poverty. “When officials of the Department of Kannada and Culture and my fellow artistes stand by me, I never feel poor; I feel rich,” she said, appreciating the department for its continued support to artistes.

She rendered one of her self-composed devotional songs, drawing appreciation from the audience. Urging artistes to take advantage of government welfare schemes, she appealed to them to submit the required documents to the authorities on time.

Joint Director of the Department of Kannada and Culture Basavaraj Hugar said the Kalyana Karnataka region had introduced the voices of women to the world through the traditions of vachana, tatvapada, and dasa sahitya. He said Ms. Shaikh’s journey from a conservative family to becoming a celebrated exponent of tatvapada (rendering philosophical or spiritual songs) singing was an inspiration to the younger generation.

Rangayana Administrator Sidram Sindhe said Ms. Shaikh had played a significant role in preserving and popularising the philosophical compositions of Kadakol Madivallappa through music, thereby helping carry the region’s cultural heritage to younger generations.

He commended the Department of Kannada and Culture for identifying and honouring senior exponents of traditional art forms, and providing them with a platform to inspire society.

Deputy Director of the Department of Kannada and Culture Jagadishwari Nasi, and Rangayana Director Sujatha Jangamashetti were among those present at the event.