The zonal cultural centres across the country are promoting traditional Indian arts and culture and attracting a number of youths, Uttar Pradesh Governor B L Joshi said.
The centres, brainchild of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, are helping save our rich arts and culture which are on the verge of dying, Joshi said here last night during the concluding ceremony of cultural extravaganza 'Mati ke Rang', (colours of soil), organised by seven zonal cultural centres and hosted by south central zone cultural centre (SCZCC).
Union Culture Minister Chandresh Kumari Katoch, Maharashtra Culture Minister Sanjay Deotale, his Meghalaya counterpart Clement Marak, Ministry of Cultural Affairs secretary Ravindra Singh, among others, were present on the occasion.
Katoch said the UPA government was committed to preserve art through various programmes, besides taking care of performing artistes and providing them with financial assistance.
About 750 folk artistes representing seven zonal centres from across the country presented a cultural show on the occasion.
