Hyderabad to Host Lok Manthan 2024 from November 21 to 24
Lok Manthan, a biennial event held in different locations across India, will be hosted in Hyderabad from November 21 to 24 this year. The event brings together a diverse group of participants, including artists, academicians, thinkers, researchers, and social workers.
Union Minister of Coal and Mines, G Kishan Reddy, spoke at a press conference in Delhi on Tuesday. He expressed his excitement about hosting the event in Hyderabad, stating, “We feel fortunate to host this event in Hyderabad this time.” Preparations for the event have been ongoing for the past two months.
The theme for Lok Manthan 2024 centers around understanding the divisive politics affecting the country. The event will explore how these divisions are reflected in art, media, and politics. Reddy emphasized that the aim is to strengthen India’s unity in diversity and discuss global challenges.
Reddy also highlighted the importance of societal development, self-reliance, and the need to uplift tribal communities in education, healthcare, and the economy.
Lok Manthan is a collective effort supported by various cultural organizations, including Prajna Bharati, Itihasa Sankalana Samiti, Sanskara Bharati, Vigyana Bharati, Adhivakta Parishad, Sahitya Parishad, and Bharatiya Turaniya mandal, under the leadership of Pragya Pravh. The event aims to promote India’s rich arts and traditions.
The cultural festival and exhibitions will kick off on November 21 with an inauguration by former Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu. On November 22, President Draupadi Murmu will begin the brainstorming sessions, joined by representatives from various countries.
More than 100 art exhibitions will showcase the work of over 1,500 artists. Additionally, over 400 rare musical instruments will be on display. Pavilions representing tribal associations, voluntary organizations, and State governments will also be set up.
Nandakumar, a key organizer, mentioned that Lok Manthan 2024 serves as a platform for thinkers who prioritize national issues. He recalled previous events, such as the 2016 event in Bhopal, which focused on removing colonial ideas, and the 2018 event in Ranchi, which centered on traditions. The 2020 edition was postponed due to the pandemic, but in 2022, participants gathered in Guwahati to discuss “Loka Vigyan.”
The term “Lok” refers to society or the people, and Lok Manthan seeks to discuss collective thoughts, culture, traditions, and policies. Nandakumar pointed out that mainstream narratives often misrepresent “Lok” as unscientific, but in truth, it represents science and civilization.
This year’s event will feature over 200 exhibition pavilions with participation from international intellectuals and representatives from various communities. Art from countries like Indonesia, which has contributed significantly to Ramayana-based art, will also be showcased.
The event will focus on 13 key topics blending culture and traditions. Governors, Union Ministers, Chief Ministers, and Deputy Chief Ministers from various states will participate. RSS Chief Dr. Mohan Bhagwat will address the closing ceremony.
The event, which is the largest cultural festival to be held at Shilparamam, is being organized in collaboration with the Telangana Cultural Department. Entrance is free for all visitors.
