Jogen Chowdhary is first artist in-residence at Rashtrapati

After innovators, it is turn of Rajya Sabha member Jogen Chowdhary to be the first guest under 'In-Residence Scheme for Writers and Artists' at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Chowdhary (75), who is Professor Emeritus of Visva Bharati University, Santiniketan will be staying at Rashtrapati Bhavan for 14 days from today.
Chowdhary was Keeper (Art) at Rashtrapati Bhavan between 1972 and 1987 and his several paintings already form part of the Presidential Palace's art collection.
The scheme was launched by President Pranab Mukherjee on December 11, 2013 with the aim of providing writers and artists an opportunity to stay in the majestic building and be a part of the life of Rashtrapati Bhavan.

"The initiative is an attempt to encourage established as well as young and upcoming writers and artists by facilitating them a stay close to nature in the picturesque and serene surroundings of Rashtrapati Bhavan," an official statement said.
The programme seeks to provide an environment which will inspire creative thinking and rejuvenate artistic impulses. Various activities like reading sessions, exhibitions of works of art and interaction with the residents of Rashtrapati Bhavan will also be organised in consultation with the selected writers and artists under the scheme.
Earlier four innovators were selected under the "In-house innovators programme" which was aimed at providing platform to to inventors for sharing their plans with various ministries and departments.