Youths add festive touch to classical art forms

BANGALORE: “Indian traditional art forms like classical dances and folklore dances are losing significance with the increasing Westernization,” said Tushar Girinath, Commissioner, Department of Public Instruction, at the inauguration of ‘Youth Festival-2011’ on Monday.Speaking at the competition on classical dances, he said, “Traditional art forms are the symbols of our Indian culture. Government should promote art and encourage youth to take up traditional art forms. Western   programmes are attracting youth, due to which traditional art is taking   back seat.”Stressing the need to retain traditional arts Dr Ramesh, Deputy Commissioner of Police Dr G Ramesh said “The number of participants taking part in traditional programmes has drastically come down. Youth are more attracted towards Western music.  We are forgetting our culture and the value of music. It is our responsibility to retain the traditional art.”On the two-day Youth Festival-2011, competition on classical and folklore dances will be held.