Patna: A high-level team from the Union Ministry of Culture has arrived in Bihar to inspect sites for the proposed ‘Kalagram’ cultural hubs in Patna and Bodh Gaya. The visit, taking place from April 8 to 11, marks a significant step toward boosting the preservation and promotion of traditional art, craft, and culture in the state.
The central team is led by Joint Secretary Lily Pandey and includes senior officials from the Ministry of Culture. They are assessing the suitability of land allotted for the Kalagram project, which aims to provide local artists and craftsmen with spaces for training, exhibitions, and marketing their work.
A key meeting was held at Bihar Museum on April 8, where the visiting officials interacted with top state authorities. Those present included Pranav Kumar, Secretary of the Department of Art, Culture and Youth; Rachna Patil, Director of Archaeology and Culture; Ruby, Director of Cultural Affairs; and Ashok Kumar Sinha, Additional Director of Bihar Museum. The delegation also met with Bihar’s Chief Secretary to discuss the project’s roadmap.
The initiative follows the success of the first Kalagram set up during the Mahakumbh 2025 in Prayagraj. The Ministry now plans to replicate this model across 20 cultural destinations in India, with Patna and Bodh Gaya among the chosen sites.
Once operational, Kalagram is expected to revitalise Bihar’s cultural scene, empower local talent, and enhance the state’s profile on India’s cultural map.
