Singer Sona Mohapatra hopes the government, especially after the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, will focus more on arts and bring about cultural change in the industry by bringing in a more effective cultural ministry.
On June 4, the Bharatiya Janata Party won 240 out of 542 seats. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to form the government for the third time and the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance is getting a majority in the Lok Sabha elections.
Looking forward to the end results, Sona said, “There is already a lot of good work happening on the infrastructure front and hopefully it will continue its natural progression and perfection, but I also hope to see a concerted effort towards creating live venues for culture and performing arts across the country. Not just highways, schools and toilets.”
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She adds, “Celebrating digital desi social media influencers who help celebrate our Indian identity is one thing, but I would love to see a more vibrant culture ministry that has a real budget allocation, not just one clubbed together with the tourism ministry. We underestimate the soft power of art, music, beauty in our lives and I believe there should be a performing arts and cultural centre like NMACC and also an open concert venue hosting Indian artists from all genres of music in all smart cities.”
The singer, who recently released her new song ‘Barsa Badariya’, also focused her attention on the entertainment and education system.
He said, “Entertainment taxes are so high that it is impossible for individuals to become concert promoters in India, this has to change. My second wish is to see a change in the education system; to help set up more institutes that help produce skilled professionals like AC and fridge repairmen along with other practical skills who will get employment and better prospects than the colonial transfer of the largely useless system of college graduates in BA, BSc, BCom or even engineering institutes that produce professionals who leave the country in large numbers.”
The singer’s third and final wish for the government in power was to “intervene in big cities like Mumbai to ensure that life is more equitable for everyone.” She also stressed the need for more parks and larger spaces.
The film industry has got new representation in the Lok Sabha this year. Actress Kangana Ranaut won from Mandi with 52.9 per cent votes, while actor-politician Arun Govil won from Meerut with 46.2 per cent votes.
