Saharsa District Administration Revives Shehnai Tradition for Local Artistes
Saharsa district admin to support shehnai players living in penury, obscurity
Hindustan Times
Image: Hindustan Times
The Saharsa district administration in Bihar, India, is reviving the traditional shehnai by linking local players to the Mukhyamantri Kalakar Pension Yojna, providing them with a monthly stipend of ₹3,000. This initiative aims to restore the instrument's prominence at government functions and combat the decline caused by modern music trends.
- 01Saharsa district in Bihar is reviving the shehnai tradition.
- 02Local shehnai players will receive a stipend of ₹3,000 through a government scheme.
- 03The initiative aims to promote shehnai at government events and combat modern music trends.
- 04There are approximately 100 shehnai players in the district facing financial difficulties.
- 05The revival has instilled hope among local musicians for a better future.
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The Saharsa district administration in Bihar, India, is taking steps to revive the traditional shehnai, a classical wind instrument that has fallen out of favor due to modern music trends. The administration plans to link local shehnai players to the Mukhyamantri Kalakar Pension Yojna, which will provide them with a monthly stipend of ₹3,000. This initiative aims to change the perception of the shehnai from being merely a wedding instrument to a respected fixture at government functions. District culture officer Sneha Kumari stated that efforts began in January, coinciding with performances at government events, including the birthday of former Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. Approximately 100 shehnai players in the district have struggled financially, with many seeing a decline in demand for their performances. Local musicians express hope that this government support will not only promote traditional music but also address the competition posed by unlicensed DJs and modern music. Maheshwari Ram, a shehnai player, noted that the revival has already led to increased performance opportunities at public events, fostering optimism among his peers.
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This initiative provides financial support to struggling shehnai players, helping them sustain their livelihoods and reviving interest in traditional music.
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