CM urges artistes, writers to champion Kerala’s cultural progress

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan emphasizes cultural and artistic voices in Kerala's progress, urging unity to defend secular values.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has stressed the crucial role of cultural, literary, and artistic voices in steering Kerala’s progress, seeking the active involvement of stakeholders to enrich the State’s social fabric.

He was speaking at Parasparam, an interaction with cultural leaders held at Lulu Convention Centre in Thrissur on Monday, as part of the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government’s fourth anniversary celebrations.

“Kerala continues to uphold secular values and humanitarian principles. Artistes and writers have historically played a transformative role in shaping a progressive society,” the Chief Minister said. However, he stressed the need for introspecting if such interventions continued with the same intensity today.

Highlighting Kerala’s unique cultural identity, the Chief Minister underscored the contributions of social reformers such as Sree Narayana Guru in eradicating superstitions and promoting social awareness. He called upon cultural activists to stand united in resisting regressive forces and to act with clarity and conviction in defending the State’s secular and progressive legacy.

Addressing questions about the Nava Keralam vision, he clarified that it was not just about one-dimensional development but about inclusive growth that reached every section and corner of the State. “We aim to elevate our society to match the living standards of middle-income countries, with a strong foundation in social commitment and public welfare,” he said.

Mr. Vijayan said that the State would be free of extreme poverty by November 1, thanks to strengthened public distribution, education, and health-care systems.

Cultural Affairs Minister Saji Cherian, in his address, described Parasparam as a tribute to the government’s nine-year journey and the cultural community’s support. “Our government has rolled out several model initiatives for artistes, from the Vajra Jubilee Fellowship to extensive outreach in folk and tribal arts,” he said. Projects had been tailored for differently abled, coastal, tribal, and transgender artistes to ensure inclusivity in the cultural landscape, he added.