Kala Utsav is a flagship initiative of the Ministry of Education, Government of India, launched in 2015 under the Department of School Education & Literacy. It aims to promote arts in education by nurturing and showcasing the artistic talents of secondary school students across the country. This annual event provides a platform for students to explore and celebrate India’s rich cultural diversity through various art forms.
OBJECTIVES AND VISION
The primary objective of Kala Utsav is to integrate arts into the school curriculum, thereby enhancing students’ understanding and appreciation of cultural heritage. It encourages students to develop pride in national culture, preserve tribal heritage, and cherish traditional music, dance, and other art forms. By participating in Kala Utsav, students gain experiential learning opportunities that contribute to their holistic development
STRUCTURE AND PARTICIPATION
Kala Utsav is organized at multiple levels: school, district, state, and national. Students compete in various categories, including music, dance, visual arts, and theatre. The event is structured as an art festival, featuring performances and exhibitions that highlight the vibrant cultural tapestry of India. This multi-tiered approach ensures widespread participation and fosters a sense of unity among students from diverse backgrounds.
ALIGNMENT WITH NATIONAL EDUCATION POLICY
The initiative aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes the importance of integrating arts and culture into the education system. NEP 2020 advocates for play-based and experiential learning, recognizing the role of arts in developing creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills among students. Kala Utsav embodies these principles by providing a platform for students to engage in artistic endeavors.
RECENT DEVELOPMENTS
In recent years, Kala Utsav has seen increased participation and recognition. For instance, the State Level Kala Utsav 2024-25 was held in Kohima, Nagaland, where students showcased their talents in various art forms. The event highlighted the cultural richness of the region and provided students with an opportunity to connect with their heritage.
Additionally, the national-level Kala Utsav 2023 was inaugurated by Union Minister for Education and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan. He emphasized the role of Kala Utsav in connecting India’s cultural diversity by nurturing the creative and artistic talents of school students
FINAL THOUGHTS
Kala Utsav stands as a testament to India’s commitment to fostering artistic talent among its youth. By integrating arts into the education system, the initiative not only preserves the nation’s cultural heritage but also equips students with essential life skills. As Kala Utsav continues to evolve, it promises to inspire future generations to embrace and celebrate the rich artistic traditions of India
MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS WITH KEY
| MCQ | CLICK HERE |
RESOURCE HANDBOOKS
| Handbook 1 | CLICK HERE |
| Handbook 2 | CLICK HERE |
| Handbook 3 | CLICK HERE |
