Local artists felicitated by Speaker Ritu Khanduri Bhushan

U’khand’s Folk Art showcased at Bhararisain Vidhan Sabha complex
my uttarakhand news Bureau
Bhararisain (Gairsain), 11 Feb: The Uttarakhand Vidhan Sabha building located in Bhararisain, Gairsain—the summer capital of the state—is no longer just a center for democratic deliberations, but is steadily emerging as a vibrant symbol of Uttarakhand’s rich folk art, culture, and traditions. At the initiative of Speaker Ritu Khanduri Bhushan, paintings and traditional Ramman masks depicting various folk and cultural themes of the state have been installed in the Assembly premises to promote local art and artists.
These artworks vividly and impressively portray Uttarakhand’s distinctive cultural heritage, including the Nanda Raj Jat Yatra, Chholiya dance, Ramman festival, traditional musical instruments, Aipan art, and Ramman masks. All the artworks have been created by local artists of the state, providing them not only with a prestigious platform but also with recognition and respect for their talent. It is worth noting that, last year, beautiful Aipan art was created by local women in the Dehradun Assembly building as well, which received widespread appreciation from all sections of society.
On this occasion, Speaker Bhushan stated that Uttarakhand’s folk art and culture form the foundation of the state’s identity and heritage. Encouraging artists and giving their work a place in dignified public spaces is a meaningful and necessary step toward cultural preservation. She added that, as a woman, she feels a special connect to art, culture, and creative expression, and wishes to see Uttarakhand’s traditions remain vibrant for future generations.
Artists Mukul Badoni, Jyoti Joshi, and others who prepared the paintings expressed their gratitude to the Speaker, stating that for the first time they had the opportunity to display their art on such a prestigious platform, which has boosted their morale and inspired them to do even better work in the future. The artists also mentioned that artworks and gifts created by them have been presented by the Speaker to various dignitaries across the country. Aipan-adorned shawls, paintings, and other mementos have been gifted to the President of India, the Prime Minister, the Home Minister, the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, and several other distinguished personalities, thereby giving national recognition to Uttarakhand’s art and culture.
On this occasion, Shekhar Pant, the officer in charge at Bhararisain (Gairsain), briefed the Speaker about various ongoing developmental and administrative works in the Assembly complex. He informed her that continuous efforts are being made to expand infrastructure, improve connectivity, and enhance civic amenities in the region.
This initiative is not only an effort to preserve Uttarakhand’s folk culture but also an important step toward strengthening the dignity, self-reliance, and cultural pride of local artists.