POLICY NOTE

2010 – 2011

DEPARTMENT OF ART AND CULTURE

Introduction

“Art transcends all the boundaries and barriers”. That is why Poet Bharathiyar urged us to travel to various parts of the world and bring all treasures to enrich our artistic wealth.

Art and Culture break the monotony and add beauty to our lives. We cannot imagine a world without music, dance, poetry, painting, sculpture and drama. It will make the world a mundane without any life and existence will be inane and insipid. Art forms require the patronage of Government for their continuity and preservation.

Tourism and Culture are intertwined. Culture promotes Tourism and Tourism is benefited by the rich varieties of our Culture. After the formation of Tourism and Culture Department, convergence has been systematically effected by proper coordination between the two sectors by conscious efforts.

The first and paramount job of Department of Art and Culture is to introduce the best form of arts to the people, encouraging and uplifting the artistes, through which culture is fostered for posterity. This Department works for the revival of significant art forms and takes efforts to propagate Thamizhisai in the nooks and corners of our State.

Department of Art and Culture

The Department of Art and Culture is headed by a Commissioner of Art and Culture. It facilitates and regulates the functions of all the Government institutions related to Art and Culture. The functioning of Government Music colleges, Government Music schools, Government colleges for Fine Arts, Government college for Architecture and Sculpture, Jawahar Bala Bhavan and Oviaya Nunkalai Kuzhu are monitored and administered by the Department in an effective manner.

1. Regional Cultural Centres

The Directorate of Art and Culture has six Regional Cultural Centres at Kancheepuram, Thanjavur, Salem, Madurai, Tirunelveli and Thiruchirappalli. The Regional Cultural Centres co-ordinate the cultural activities of the District Art Societies, the District Music Schools and the Jawahar Siruvar Manrams at district level. They are manned by Assistant Directors. They also liaise with Eyal Isai Nataka Mandram, Ovia Nunkalai Kuzhu, Folk Artistes Welfare Board and South Zone Cultural Centre to organize cultural events and conduct training programmes. They organise several art festivals like Tamil Isai Vizha, Karthigai Oli Vizha, Pongal Kalai Vizha, Nattupura Kalai Vizha, Paavai Vizha, Saaral Vizha, Sirkazhi Moovar Vizha, Kattabomman Birthday Celebration, Aruvi Thiruvizha, Kumari Thiruvizha, Sadaya Vizha, Azhither Vizha, Kodai Vizha, Matha Nallinakka Vizha etc.

2 District Art Societies

District Art Societies were formed to identify artistic talents at District level and provide opportunities for their exposition. Identification Cards are issued to various artistes through these Societies so that they may avail financial assistance, priority in cultural programmes and concession in travel are availed by producing these cards.

3. Folk Artistes Welfare Board

In order to provide social security and welfare schemes to folk artistes, Folk Artistes Welfare Board was created and Tamil Nadu Government have initially sanctioned Rs.1 crore to the Welfare Board to provide various benefits to Folk Artistes.

3.1 Registration of Folk Artistes

Any folk artiste who has completed the age of 18 years but not completed 60 years, may register his / her name with the board to become a member of the scheme. 20,661 folk artistes have become members of the Board up to March 2010.

3.2 Welfare Schemes

A sum of Rs.32.09 lakhs has been spent so far towards various welfare schemes to 2381 folk artistes.

3.2.1 Assistance for purchase of Spectacles

A maximum amount of Rs. 500/- for spectacles is given to members. An amount of Rs.5.21 lakhs has been provided upto March 2010 towards purchase of spectacles to 1047 members.

3.2.2 Assistance for Education

Assistance for Education is provided to the son / daughter of folk artiste subject to maximum of 2 children starting from class X up to Post Graduate level and Professional courses along with hostel fees depending upon the course. An amount of Rs.15.51 lakhs has been provided upto March 2010 for education to 1159 members.

3.2.3 Assistance for Marriage

Assistance to meet the marriage expenses of the folk artiste or his son or daughter is provided. An amount of Rs.2.36 lakhs has been given for marriage assistance to 118 members upto March 2010.

3.2.4 Assistance for Delivery of a Child

Under this scheme, a female folk artiste member is provided with a sum of Rs.6,000/- towards delivery for maximum 2 children. An amount of Rs.30,000/- has been provided so far to 5 members upto March 2010.

3.2.5 Assistance for Miscarriage / Termination of Pregnancy

For miscarriage / termination of pregnancy, an amount of Rs.3,000/- is provided towards hospital expenses for maximum 2 times . In Chennai one member is benefited under this scheme upto March 2010.

3.2.6 Natural Death / Funeral expenses

If a registered folk artiste dies naturally, a sum of Rs.15,000/- will be given to the nominee of the deceased registered folk artiste and a sum of Rs.2,000/- will be given to the nominee of the deceased registered folk artiste to meet the funeral expenses. A total amount of Rs.8.67 lakhs has been provided to 51 members under this scheme upto March 2010.

3.3 Free Medical Camp

Free medical camps were conducted in 21 districts and 4614 members and their family members were benefited so far.

3.4 Allotment of Free House Site Pattas

Free house site pattas have been issued to 86 folk artistes in Villupuram, Namakkal and Madurai Districts, in 2009-2010. Applications received for issue of free house site pattas are being sent to the concerned District Collectors for necessary action as soon as received from the folk artistes.

3.5 Free Musical Instruments

Thanjavur District Collector has provided free musical instruments worth Rs.42,000 to the folk artistes. Similarly, Erode District Collector has provided free musical instruments worth Rs.90,200/-, Krishnagiri District Collector, musical instruments worth Rs.10,000/- and Theni District Collector, Rs 52,400/- worth of musical instruments and Villupuram District Collector, Rs. 39,000/- worth of musical instruments to folk artistes.

To encourage the Folk Artistes, chances are given to perform folk arts in “Poongavil Poongatru”, “Mamallapuram Indian Dance Festival” and other Government functions.

3.6 Kalaignar’s Insurance Scheme

Photos of the members and family members of folk artistes were taken for providing identity cards under “Life saving treatment of Kalaignar Insurance scheme”. Folk Artistes and their family are benefited under this scheme.

4. Art Educational Institutions

Music Schools and Music Colleges were established to provide formal education in music. The students of Music Colleges are given Rs.250/- per month as stipend for ten months. Floor mats were purchased to Music Colleges at a cost of Rs.2 lakhs in 2009-2010. Furnitures at a cost of Rs.1 lakh and electrical lights and fans at a cost of Rs.1 lakh have been provided to Chennai Music College.

4.1 Government Music College, Chennai

It was established in 1949. Three-Year Diploma courses in Folk Arts, Bharathanatyam, Vocal and instrumental music (Violin, Veena, Mridangam, Flute, Gadam, Kanchira, Mugarsing, Nadaswaram, Thavil) are offered. Two-Year Post Diploma Courses in Vocal Music (Muthukalai Isai Kalaimani), Two-Year Diploma Course in Nattuvangam and One-Year Diploma Course in Music Teachers Training are offered here.

4.1.1 Poongavil Poongatru

‘Poongavil Poongatru’ ( Music in the Park) is a new venture by the Department of Art and Culture to take Tamil Isai to the common people. ‘Poongavil Poongatru’ is being conducted on all Saturdays in any one of the Parks in Chennai Corporation. Apart from Tamil Isai, various folk arts are also performed in the above programme. People of Chennai City have welcomed the ‘Poongavil Poongatru’ programme.

4.2 Government Music College, Madurai

It was commenced in 1979. Three-Year Diploma Courses in Vocal, Veena, Violin, Mridangam, Flute, Nadaswaram, Bharathanatyam and Folk Art and One-Year Diploma Course in Music Teachers Training are offered in this College.

4.3 Government Music College, Coimbatore

This college is functioning since 1993. It offers Three Year Diploma Courses in Vocal, Violin, Veena and Bharathanatyam and One-Year Diploma Course in Music Teachers Training.

4.4 Government Music College, Thiruvaiyaru

It was started in 1997. In this College, Three-Year Diploma Courses in Vocal, Violin, Veena, Mridangam, Bharathanatyam, Nadaswaram and Thavil and Three-Year Degree Course in Vocal Music are offered. The college is functioning in the new premises with enhanced infrastructure.

4.5 Evening Music College Centres

Two Centres are functioning at Chennai and one at Madurai. Two-Year Certificate Courses are offered in Vocal, Veena and Violin in Chennai Thiyagarayanagar Centre; Vocal, Veena, Violin and Mridhangam in Music College Campus Centre. Vocal, Veena, Violin, Mridhangam and Bharathanatyam are offered in Madurai Centre.

4.6 Government District Music Schools

In order to encourage the youth who are interested in music, Government District Music Schools are functioning in 17 places, namely Thiruvarur, Tirunelveli, Thiruchirappalli, Salem, Pudukkottai, Villupuram, Cuddalore, Perambalur, Thoothukudi, Karur, Kancheepuram, Tiruvannamalai, Sivagangai, Krishnagiri, Seerkazhi, Erode and Ramanathapuram. They offer Three-Year Certificate Courses in Vocal Music, Bharathanatyam, Nadaswaram, Thavil and Thevaram. Violin and Mridhangam courses were started during the year 2007- 2008.

4.7 Government Fine Arts Colleges

4.7.1 Government College of Fine Arts, Chennai

It was established in 1850. In this College, Four-Year Degree Courses and Two-Year Post Graduate Degree Courses in the following disciplines are offered:

Degree Courses

1. Industrial Design in Ceramic 2. Industrial Design in Textile 3. Visual Communication Design 4. Painting 5. Sculpture 6. Print Making

Post Graduate Degree Courses

1. Painting 2. Visual Communication Design 3. Industrial Design in Ceramic 4. Industrial Design in Textile 5. Sculpture

Syllabi of this College are approved by the Madras University. A sum of Rs.6.65 lakhs has been sanctioned to this college for purchase of new electrical kiln. A sum of Rs.1.75 lakhs has been provided for creation of metal casting foundry for sculpture students, a sum of Rs.3.73 lakhs has been provided for purchase of Easel Chairs (stands) Desks, Stools and a sum of Rs.1.13 lakhs has been provided for purchase of computers and accessories to Government College of Fine Arts, Chennai.

4.7.2 Government College of Fine Arts, Kumbakonam

It was started in 1887. In this College, Four Year Degree Courses and Two Year Post Graduate Degree Courses in the following disciplines are conducted:

Degree Courses

1. Painting 2. Visual Communication Design 3. Sculpture

Post Graduate Degree Courses

1. Painting 2. Sculpture

Syllabi of this College are approved by the Bharathidasan University, Thiruchirappalli. A sum of Rs.50 lakhs has been provided for construction of new building to Museum Art Gallery, a sum of Rs.1 lakh has been provided for purchase of Photo Copying machine, a sum of Rs.1.75 lakhs has been provided for creation of metal casting foundary, a sum of Rs.3.72 lakhs has been provided for purchase of Easel Chairs (Stands), Desks, Stools and a sum of Rs.1.12 lakhs has been provided for purchase of computers and accessories to the Government College of Fine Arts, Kumbakonam.

Refresher Training Camps are being conducted for the Drawing Teachers District wise working in schools under the control of Directorate of School Education in the name of “ ENNANGALIL VANNANGAL “ through the Government College of Fine Arts, Chennai and Kumbakonam

4.7.3 Government College of Architecture and Sculpture, Mamallapuram

Mamallapuram is considered as the museum of Indian Architecture. It is a UNESCO declared heritage monument for showcasing Indian rock architecture. It has bas-relief, monoliths and cave temples in one place. The Government College of Architecture and Sculpture was established in Mamallapuram in 1957. Four Year Degree Courses are offered in this College from 2000-2001. B.Tech in Traditional Architecture, B.F.A in Traditional Sculpture and B.F.A in Traditional Drawing and Painting are offered. A sum of Rs.1 lakh has been sanctioned to this college for conduct of Exhibition in 2009-2010. The sculptures carved by this college depicting the various scenes from Tamil Classical Literature and History find a place in ‘ Semmozhi Sirpa Poonga’ at Mamallapuram. It has become an additional attraction for the tourists to visit and comprehend our prestigious heritage.

4.8 Kalaikaveri College of Fine Arts, Tiruchirappalli

Kalai Kaveri College of Fine Arts in Tiruchirappalli is an aided College. The administrative control of this College was brought under the Department of Art and Culture in 2000 -2001. Grants to this College are being released through the Directorate of Collegiate Education. Five-Year Integrated Degree Courses, Three-Year Degree Courses, Two-Year Post Graduate Degree Courses in the following disciplines are offered in this College:

1. Bharathanatyam 2. Vocal Music 3. Violin 4. Veena 5. Mridhangam.

5. South Zone Cultural Centre, Thanjavur

South Zone Cultural Centre, Thanjavur function under the Chairmanship of His Excellency, the Governor of Tamil Nadu. It is a Government of India organization for the southern region run with the countenance of the southern States. It organizes cultural programmes and events in co-ordination with the Department of Art and Culture. The Indian Dance Festival at Mamallapuram gets enriched every year by the participation of artistes sponsored by the South Zone Cultural Centre. Rs.16 lakhs was provided to the Department of Art and Culture for conducting cultural functions through Regional Cultural Centres in 2009-2010.

6. Tamil Nadu Eyal Isai Nataka Manram

Tamil Nadu Sangeet Nataka Sangam was established by the Government of Tamil Nadu in the year 1955 to achieve the objectives of the Central Sangeet Natak Akademi at State level and foster traditional Tamil Arts. It was renamed as Tamil Nadu Eyal Isai Nataka Manram in the year 1973. This organisation is implementing several schemes from the grants sanctioned by the State Government.

6.1 Schemes of Cultural Activities

The main activities of the Manram consists of exchange of cultural troupes between the States, sanctioning of monthly financial assistance to the indigent artistes and sanctioning of family maintenance grant to the families of deceased famous artistes. It encourages talented budding artistes by providing opportunities for their performances through various cultural organizations of Tamil Nadu. It is responsible for conferring “Kalaimamani” awards to the artistes for their yeomen service to the enrichment of performing arts. It extends grants to professional drama troupes for production and staging of Tamil dramas depicting our ancient culture and heritage. It sanctions grants for publication of rare books in the field of art and culture. Works like releasing of grants to voluntary cultural organizations towards the commemorative festival of savants, conducting various cultural festivals for the benefit of the artistes, documentation of rare forms of traditional arts to enable the future generation to know about them, recording and preserving of music programmes of the senior artistes and encouraging research on our folk arts and traditional classical fine arts are undertaken by this wing of the department.

6.2 Conferment of Kalaimamani Award

With a view to felicitating the famous artistes who are contributing in a commendable manner in the field of performing arts, the Tamil Nadu Eyal Isai Nataka Manram is conferring “Kalaimamani” Awards. So far 1521 artistes have been honoured. In the functions so far organized for conferring Kalaimamani award, portraits of 336 eminent deceased artistes in various art disciplines have been unveiled. At the “Kalaimamani” award investiture ceremonies, Porkizhi (Cash Award) is being awarded to senior Kalaimamani artistes. In this way, Porkizhi has been given totally to 202 artistes. With a view to encouraging and felicitating the voluntary cultural organizations and splendid performing drama troupes, 28 cultural organizations and 19 drama troupes were awarded Shields and Rolling Shields till date.

6.3 Financial Assistance to Indigent Artistes

Under this scheme, Rs.500/- per month was given as financial assistance to the aged famous artistes and men of letters who are now in indigent circumstances. The Government have issued orders for enhancing the financial assistance to Rs.1000/- from the financial year 2006. 500 indigent artistes were benefited by the new sanctions made during 2009-2010.

6.4 Family Maintenance Grant to the Families of Deceased Famous Artistes

The bereaved families of the deceased artistes are given family maintenance grant. Under this scheme 88 families at the rate of Rs.2000/- and 77 families at the rate of Rs.3000/- and 81 families at the rate of Rs.5000/- and 112 families at the rate of Rs.6000/- have benefited.

6.5 Inter State Cultural Exchange Programme

It is essential to create opportunities for the outsiders to know about the arts and cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu so as to promote national integration. A scheme known as Inter-State Cultural Exchange Programme is being implemented by the Manram with the co-ordination of Sangeet Natak Akademi to achieve this objective. Under this scheme, 81 cultural troupes from other States have visited Tamil Nadu and 84 cultural troupes of Tamil Nadu have also visited to other States.

6.6 Encouragement of Talented Young Artistes

In order to provide an avenue to the budding artistes in Bharathanatyam, Classical Vocal and Instrumental Music, the Manram extends grant to effective Voluntary Cultural Organizations of Tamil Nadu for conducting performances. Till date, 1823 young artistes have benefited under the scheme.

6.7 Grants to Folk Artistes / Troupes for Purchase of Musical instruments and Costumes

The Manram extends grants to folk artistes and troupes for costumes and musical instruments. Under this scheme, a sum of Rs.750/- is given to each folk artiste and Rs.2500/- to each troupe. So far, 1425 folk artistes / troupes have been benefited.

6.8 Grants for the Production of New Dramas

Under this scheme, grants to Drama troupes for the production and staging of new Tamil plays based on Tamil art and culture are given.

6.9 Grants for the Production of New Dance Dramas

Under this scheme grants are given for the production and staging of new Tamil dance-dramas based on Tamil literature and culture.

6.10 Grants for the Publication of Rare Books on Arts

Financial assistance has been sanctioned to publish books on art. Under this scheme, 104 books have been published. Action is being taken to publish books at a cost of Rs.2 lakhs on the life history of eminent deceased artistes whose portraits have been unveiled.

6.11 Documentation on Dramaturgy

Pursuant to the sanction of Rupees Ten lakhs by the Government to the Manram, action has been initiated to document and preserve the photos of the drama artistes, their voices and scene of the dramas and to collect the costumes, dresses, sceneries and stage materials, which were used by the deceased famous artistes to exhibit for the younger generation to know about the dramaturgy.

6.12 Documentation on Traditional Tamil Isai

Documentation about the traditional Tamil Isai, portraying life history from Seerkazhi tripartite to Rajarathinam Pillai is under progress.

6.13 Organising Camp on Muthamizh

It is proposed to conduct Training course on Literature, Music and Drama during summer holidays with the help of eminent artistes and creators in the concerned fields, similar to that of the film appreciation course conducted by the Pune Film Institute.

6.14 Construction of a Guest House for the Artistes

For staying of the artistes, who come from other Districts to Chennai, a Guest House measuring 363.90 Square meter have been constructed in the premises of the Tamil Nadu Eyal Isai Nataka Manram. An amount of Rs.10.50 lakhs has been sanctioned for providing furniture and fittings in the Guest House. Further, a standard Digital Audio-Visual Library in the name of “Kalaignar Thirai Arangam”, having world wide cinemas and musical records has been established in the premises of the Manram.

6.15 Conferment of All India Level Awards for the Artistes in the field of Literature, Music and Dance

In order to felicitate the artistes who have contributed at the National level in the disciplines of literature, music and dance, three awards, each carrying one lakh rupees have been instituted in the name of “Bharathi”, “M. S. Subbulakshmi” and “Balasaraswathy” respectively.

6.16 Cultural Festivals of the Manram

With a view to know about the importance of our extinguishing traditional art forms, by our younger generation and provide sufficient programme opportunities to the folk artistes, the Tamil Nadu Eyal Isai Nataka Manram is organising various cultural functions and conducting folk festivals.

The Manram is also extending grants to Voluntary Cultural Organisations for their various art projects.

7. Tamil Nadu Ovia Nunkalai Kuzhu

It was established in the year 1975, for preserving, promoting and propagating fine arts such as Painting, Sculpture and Graphics. The schemes of the Kuzhu are implemented with the grant- in- aid sanctioned by the Government.

7.1 Scheme of conferring ‘Kalaichemmal’ Awards

“KALAICHEMMAL” awards are conferred on the eminent artists of Tamil Nadu in recognition of their meritorious service in the fields of Traditional and Contemporary Arts. A cash award of Rs.20,000/- each and a citation plaque are given to them. Till date, 11 eminent artists of Painting and Sculpture in traditional field and 42 artists of Painting and Sculpture in contemporary field have been conferred with this title.

7.2 Scheme of conducting State level exhibition of traditional art and giving awards

State level Exhibition of Traditional Art is conducted by the Ovia Nunkalai Kuzhu. For outstanding creations, an Exhibition Award of Rs.15,000/-each is given to five “Senior Artists” above 30 years of age and Rs.5,000/- each to 10 “Junior Artists” who are below 30 years of age.

7.3 Scheme of conducting exhibition of contemporary art and giving awards

State level Exhibition of Contemporary Art is conducted by the Ovia Nunkalai Kuzhu and artists are encouraged. For outstanding creations, an Exhibition Award of Rs.15,000/- each is given to five participating “Senior Artists” who have completed 30 years of age and Rs.5,000/-each is given to 10 participating “Junior Artists” who have not completed 30 years of age.

7.4 Scheme of financial assistance to artists for conducting one-man shows or group shows

Financial assistance of Rs.5,000/- per exhibition is given to the artists in Tamil Nadu to conduct their exhibitions either individually or collectively as a group.

7.5 Scheme of awarding scholarships to young artists

For encouraging the students of Government Fine Arts Colleges at Chennai and Kumbakonam, a scholarship of Rs.5,000/- each is given to outstanding final year Post Graduate Degree students and Rs.3,000/- each to outstanding final year Degree students. Till now, 528 Degree students and 70 Post Graduate students have been given scholarships.

7.6 Art Galleries at Districts

Three Art Galleries of Ovia Nunkalai Kuzhu with creative pieces of eminent artists of Tamil Nadu are functioning at Udhagamandalam, Madurai and Art Gallery at Government College of Fine Arts, Chennai.

8. Tamil Nadu Jawahar Siruvar Mandram

Tamil Nadu Jawahar Siruvar Mandram was established in 1979 at Chennai. The aim of this Institution is to inculcate artistic talent and aesthetic fervour in the minds of children between five and sixteen years of age.

In Tamil Nadu Jawahar Siruvar Mandrams function in 36 places: in 24 places as District Jawahar Siruvar Manrams, in 10 places as Jawahar Siruvar Mandram Extension Centres and in two places as Jawahar Siruvar Mandram Rural Centres.

8.1 District Jawahar Siruvar Mandrams

District Jawahar Siruvar Mandrams are functioning at Chennai, Pudukkottai, Madurai, Udhagamandalam, Coimbatore, Tiruchirappalli, Cuddalore, Nagercoil, Thanjavur, Kancheepuram, Sivagangai, Tirunelveli, Salem, Ramanathapuram, Dindigul, Dharmapuri, Krishnagiri, Theni, , Tiruvallur, Erode, Thiruvarur, Virudhunagar and Villupuram.

8.2 Jawahar Siruvar Mandram Extension Centres

Jawahar Siruvar Mandram Extension Centres are functioning at Perambalur, Thanjavur, Kulithalai, Karur, Chennai (Dr.M.G.R Deaf and Dumb School, Ramapuram), Madurai, Thoothukkudi, Nagapattinam, Thiruvannamalai and Namakkal.

8.3 Jawahar Siruvar Mandram Rural Centres

Two Rural Centres for imparting artistic talents to children are effectively functioning in Ponpudupatti, Pudukkottai district and Ellis Nagar at Madurai.

8.4 Part time training in Jawahar Siruvar Mandram

Part time training in the following 20 disciplines are given in Jawahar Siruvar Mandrams:- Bharathanatyam, Folk Dance, Crafts, Vocal, Drama, Gymnastics, Mirudhangam, Tabela, Karathe, Computer, Keyboard, Veena, Drums, Bands, Tailoring, Drawing & Painting, Screen Printing, Flute, Yoga and silambattam.

At Chennai, training is given for six days in a week in 16 disciplines. In the District Jawahar Siruvar Mandrams and Extension Centres, training is given for three days in a week in four disciplines. In Rural Centres, training is given for three days in a week in two disciplines. Around 8865 children are being trained in all the Jawahar Siruvar Mandrams in our State. Children libraries are functioning in all Jawahar Siruvar Mandrams except two Rural Jawahar Siruvar Mandrams and Krishnagiri District Jawahar Siruvar Mandram.

For the benefit of the children residing in Chennai and to spread the Jawahar Siruvar Mandram activities, five Centres were started in residential areas. Training is given in 14 activities in Periyar Nagar Centre, 11 activities in Vyasarpadi Krishnamurthy Nagar Centre, five activities in Tambaram Selaiyur Centre, six activities in Puzhuthivakkam Centre and two activities in West Tambaram. All these Centres are functioning on all Saturdays and Sundays.

In 40 Chennai Corporation schools, after school hours, Jawahar Siruvar Mandram gives cultural training in Dance, Vocal, Drawing and Painting for three days in a week. In 18 Corporation schools, training is given for children in dance, in 22 schools training is given for children in Vocal Music. Free Bharathanatya Arangetrams were conducted to three students of Chennai Periyar Nagar Centre.

8.5 Children Camps

From Tamilnadu Jawahar Siruvar Mandrams, 125 children participated in the South Zone Bal Shree selection camp held at Thiruvananthapuram, 16 children in the National Bal Shree Selection held at New Delhi, 42 Children, in the National Childrens’ Assembly held at New Delhi and 14 children participated in the National Young Environmental Conference at New Delhi.

State level Summer Camp was conducted at Kollimalai in Namakkal District. Two hundred students were trained in the field of Bharathanatyam, Folk Dance, Vocal, Drawing, Handicrafts, Sylambam and Yoga.

State Level Craft workshop was conducted for 100 Jawahar Siruvar Mandrams’ children for ten days at Kumbakonam in clay modeling, doll making, Batik, Collage work and Candle making.

Winter Camp was organised for 100 children for 10 days at Salem. In this State Level Camp, training was given for children in Bharathanatyam, Folk Dance, Vocal Music, Drawing and Craft.

8.6 National Awards

National Bal Bhavan has selected the following children from Tamilnadu for the National Bal Shree Honour 2009, namely Selvi N.Harini from Chennai for creative performance, Selvi Diya Naresh Rao for creative innovative science, Selvi M.Naveena for Creative Writing and Selvi B.Roopadarshini from Tirunelveli for Creative Innovative Science. These children are going to receive the Award from Her Excellency the President of India shortly.

Conclusion

Department of Art and Culture acts as a bridge between the past and the future, synthesizing various art forms of Tamil Nadu and showcases them to the outsiders. The folk arts of Tamil Nadu have got a revival due to the efforts taken by this Department. The Department is taking the art forms to the door steps of the people and make them relish their content and style. This paradigm shift has helped in transforming the art scenario and made it more people friendly.

DEPARTMENT OF ARCHAEOLOGY

Introduction

Archaeology is the scientific study of past cultures and the way people lived based on the things they left behind. The purpose of archaeology is to understand how humans in the past interacted with their environment, and preserve the history for present and future learning. The study of the cultures includes the examination of the artifacts, objects made, used, or changed by man. To some extent, it can be defined as our voyage to the past, where we discover who we were and therefore who we are. In broad scope, archaeology relies on cross-disciplinary research. Archaeology always relies heavily on the materials left behind by our forefathers and the human progress is based on technological development. A number of science and humanities subjects such as anthropology, history, art history, classics, ethnology, geography, geology, linguistics, physics, information sciences, chemistry, statistics, palaeo-ecology, paleontology, palaeo-zoology, palaeo-ethno botany, and palaeo-botany and even computer science helps in the archaeological studies through recovery, documentation, analysis and interpretation of material remains, environmental data, including architecture, sculpture and their features, bio-facts and landscapes.

Department of Archaeology

The Department of Archaeology was established in 1961 by the Government of Tamil Nadu to conserve and preserve the ancient monuments in the State and to conduct excavations at archaeologically and historically important places. Its activities also included copying, deciphering and publishing of stone inscriptions, setting up of site museums, chemical preservation of art objects, documenting them with photographs and registration of antiquities. A library exclusively for scholars is functioning.

Conservation

So far 85 ancient and historical monuments including religious and secular buildings have been declared as protected monuments by the State Government. Under the Twelfth Finance Commission Grants (2006 – 2010), a sum of Rs.7.80 crores was allotted for structural conservation of 40 monuments. Rs.3.00 crores was especially sanctioned for the conservation of Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace at Madurai.

1) Conservation works to Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal, Madurai - 300.00 Lakhs 2) Trilokyanatha Jeena Swamy Temple,Thiruparuthikundram, Kancheepuram District - 9.00 Lakhs 3) Sivankoil, Ulagapuram, Villupuram District - 7.40 Lakhs 4) Chinnayankulam, Chinnayampet, Thiruvannamalai District - 3.00 Lakhs

5) Thadagapureeswararkoil, Madam, Thiruvannamalai District - 88.60 Lakhs 6) Sivankoil, Alagiyamanavalam, Thiruchirappalli District - 7.95 Lakhs

7) Thirumalai Nayakkar Mandapam, Valaiyapatti, Madurai District - 25.00 Lakhs

8) Poolavudaiyar Inscriptions, Seevalaperi, Tirunelveli District - 2.65 Lakhs 9) Sivankoil, Kandamangalam, Villupuram District - 22.50 Lakhs 10) Visaleeswarar temple, Vilakkanampoondi, Thiruvallur District - 9.25 Lakhs 11) Jain beds and inscriptions, Velayuthampalayam, Karur District - 5.00 Lakhs 12) Vishnukoil, Ulagapuram, Villupuram District - 5.00 Lakhs 13) Sivankoil, Kooram, Kancheepuram District - 1.00 Lakhs

14) Chokkeeswarar Temple, Kancheepuram District - 2.00 Lakhs 15) Vitreous enamel protection notice board for 22 Nos - 1.48 Lakhs 16) Poondi Arugar Koil, Erumpedu, Arani Taluk, - 15.00 Lakhs

17) Sivan Koil, Ayyapatti, Melur Taluk, Madurai District - 16.00 Lakhs 18) Vazhipokker Mandapam, Thangi, Taluk, Kancheepuram District - 6.25 Lakhs 19) Sadayar Koil, Tiruchinampoondi, Tirukattupalli Taluk,Thanjavur District - 13.05 Lakhs 20) Delennoy Tombs & Udayagiri Fort, Puliyur Kurichi,Kalkulam Taluk, Kanniyakumari District - 90.00 Lakhs 21) Sapthamathirika Sculptures, Perunkanchi, Tirutani Taluk, Vellore District - 1.00 Lakh 22) Twin temple, Keelaiyur, Ariyalur Taluk & District - 16.00 Lakhs 23) Agastheeswarar Koil, Perungudi, Thiruchirappalli Taluk & District - 3.00 Lakhs 24) Tirumoolanathar Temple, Perangiyur, Ulundurpet Taluk, Villupuram District - 8.40 Lakhs 25) Swasthic well, Tiruvellarai, Thiruchirappalli Taluk & District - 2.50 Lakhs 26) Kattabomman Fort, Kamuthi, Mudukulathur Taluk, Ramanathapuram District - 14.60 Lakhs

27) Thiruneelakandam, Pananjadi, Ambai Taluk, Tirunelveli District - 4.00 Lakhs

28) Old Kattabomman Fort, Panchalam Kurichi, Ottapidaram Taluk, Thoothukkudi District - 2.85 Lakhs

29) 44 British Solider’s Tombs, Panchalam Kurichi, Ottapidaram Taluk, Thoothukkudi District - 5.90 Lakhs

30) 5 British Soldier’s Tombs, Ottapidaram, Ottapidaram Taluk, Thoothukkudi District - 0.90 Lakh 31) Rudrapathi Temple, Keelakadambur, Kattumannarkoil taluk, Cuddalore District - 40.00 Lakhs

32) Sri Kailayamudayar Temple, Cholamadevei, Thiruchirappalli District - 9.00 Lakhs

33) Valeeswarar Temple at , Taluk,Vellore District - 9.00 Lakhs 34) Providing shed to the Sculptures at Gangaikondacholapuram, in Ariyalur District - 3.00 Lakhs 35) Sivan Koil, Gopurapatti, Lalgudi Taluk, Thiruchirappalli District - 4.80 Lakhs 36) Asthagiriswarar Koil, Varichiyur, Madurai Taluk & District - 0.95 Lakh

37) Udayagiriswarar Temple, Varichiyur, Madurai Taluk & District - 1.00 Lakh 38) Murugan Temple, Varichiyur, Madurai Taluk & District - 1.00 Lakh

39) Chinna Ivarmalai, Thathanayakkanpatti, Palani Taluk, Dindigul District - 6.60 Lakhs 40) Brahmi Inscription, Karungalakudi, Melur Taluk, Madurai District - 2.45 Lakhs

All the works have been completed. Documentation of the monument works have been carried out under Twelfth Finance Commission Grants and general details of the declared monuments are being published shortly.

To create awareness among department officials, tourists and general public about the conservation of monuments, archaeological sites and objects of heritage value, the Tourism and Culture Department, Government of Tamil Nadu organized one-day seminar on “Protecting Monuments for Posterity” on 04.08.2009. Thiru K.S. Sripathi, IAS, Chief Secretary to Government of Tamil Nadu, inaugurated the seminar in which Dr. V. Irai Anbu, IAS, Secretary of Tourism and Culture Department, participated.

Excavation and Museum

The primary activity of this department is to carry out excavations at historically important places. So far, excavations have been carried out at 33 historical sites and valuable antiquities have been unearthed. They are being preserved in 14 archaeological site museums, situated in various districts of the State. They are at 1) Poondi, 2) Arcot, 3) Dharmapuri, 4) Coimbatore, 5) Karur, 6) Madurai, 7) Courtrallam, 8) Ramanathapuram, 9) Gangaikondacholapuram, 10) Poompuhar, 11) Tranquebar, 12) Thanjavur – Maratta, 13) Thanjavur – Rajarajan and 14) Tirukkoilur. Under the scheme of Archaeological Excavation at historical sites, excavation at Gangaikondacholapuram in Ariyalur District at a cost of Rs.3.00 lakhs in the year 2008 had been completed. Documentation of excavation and publication of report is nearing completion. During the year 2009-2010, under the scheme of excavation, preliminary works were commenced at Rajakkal Mangalam, Nanguneri Taluk, Tirunelveli District at a cost of Rs.2.00 lakhs.

This Department has conducted an Exhibition to create awareness among students and general public on ‘Preservation of Heritage Monuments’ from 19.11.2009 to 25.11.2009 in connection with World Heritage Week celebration.

Epigraphy

An Institute of Epigraphy is functioning in the Department. It conducts one year Diploma Course in Epigraphy and Archaeology. Every year eight Post Graduate students are being enrolled and training is given in Epigraphy and Archaeology. So far, 200 students have undergone this course. A sum of Rs.1000/- is paid as stipend to each student every month.

During the year 2004-2005 an “Intensive Campaign” of copying of inscriptions in Tamil Nadu was launched and is continuing in the districts of Thiruvannamalai, Salem, Sivagangai and Tirunelveli. It is estimated that there are more than 25,000 Tamil Inscriptions in Tamil Nadu. At present this department is in possession of about 23,000 estampages of inscriptions. About 13,638 inscriptions have been deciphered by departmental Epigraphists. The Government under Part II scheme for the year 2008-2009 have allotted a sum of Rs.8.60 lakhs for the editing of 10,000 inscriptions by appointing one retired Epigraphy scholar as an expert and four unemployed students of the Institute of Epigraphy on three year contract basis. The special scheme is in progress from the year 2008-2009. Nearly 2,000 inscriptions have been edited and 1,000 inscriptions have been digitalized using the scanner procured last year.

Under the able leadership of Hon’ble Chief Minister, the World Tamil Classical Language Conference is to be held from 23rd to 27th June 2010 at Coimbatore. Hon’ble Minister for School Education and Archaeology, Thiru Thangam Thennarasu heads the exhibition committee. The exhibition related works are being carried out expeditiously.

The Department of Archaeology and Central Classical Tamil Language Institute have jointly conducted a workshop on “Epigraphy and Archaeology” from 24.12.2009 to 08.01.2010 for 40 college lecturers and students at a cost of Rs.3.75 lakhs.

Publication

The well-equipped departmental press is exclusively bringing out books in Tamil and English on Epigraphy, Monuments, Excavation reports and District Archaeological Guides. The department has brought out 218 publications so far. A quarterly journal “Kalvettu” is being printed. So far, 78 issues have been published.

Photography

The departmental photographers take photographs of various temples, sculptures, murals and antiquities. Whenever an excavation is undertaken, the stages of excavation and the details of excavated sites are documented with adequate photographs. The conservation works of monuments are also photographed and documented.

Chemical Conservation

The chemical conservation section was established in Chennai and Madurai to chemically conserve the antiquities brought to light from excavations. Later its facilities were extended to carry out chemical conservation works in 14 site museums and to co-ordinate with structural conservation section in maintenance and conservation of 85 monuments. During the year under Maintenance works and 12th Finance Commission Grants many chemical conservation works were carried out.

Registration of Antiquities

The Government of India have enacted ‘The Antiquities and Art Treasures Act 1972’ in order to curb the smuggling of art treasures from India. To enforce this Act effectively, two Registering Offices one at Chennai and another at Thiruchirappalli are functioning. The Government of India meets the entire expenditure of this scheme. This scheme is being implemented in Tamil Nadu from the year 1974. Till date 52,750 applications have been received for registration and 42,623 certificates have been issued in Tamil Nadu.

Government Oriental Manuscripts Library and Research Centre

More than 72,000 paper and palm leaf manuscripts dealing with Mathematics, Astronomy, Siddha, Ayurveda, Unani, Vedas, Agama, Architecture, Music, Fine Arts, History and many other subjects written in Tamil, Sanskrit, Marathi, Urdu, Arabic and Persian Languages are being preserved in this Library. The Library has more than 459 publications in different languages. Under the National Mission for Manuscripts Programme 1880 Siddha manuscripts in Tamil language have been digitized.

Under the Central and State shared scheme for the year 2009 - 2010 (Plan) a total amount of Rs.4,66,666/- have been approved for purchasing computer accessories, related softwares, lamination and digital camera for Government Oriental Manuscripts Library and Research Centre. In this regard an amount of Rs.3,50,000/- has been sanctioned by Government of India as its share and State share will be released shortly. The Government Oriental Manuscripts Library and Research Centre, now housed in the Madras University Campus, will be shifted to the new Anna Centenary Memorial Library complex at Kotturpuram after completion.

New Schemes

During the year 2010-2011, under Part II Schemes, it is proposed to implement the following eight schemes at a total cost of Rs.67.07 lakhs:-

1) Purchase of twenty six Computers, three Laptops, one Server and three Photo Copying Machines

2) Purchase of four Numbering Machines, one Hard Pressing Machine and one Pinning Machine for department Printing Press

3) Publication of one Epigraphy book, four Monographs by students of Epigraphy, Reprinting of five important books, four Museum Guide books, five Archaeological District Guide books and two volumes of Archaeological Excavation Reports.

4) Purchase of chemicals for Chennai and Madurai laboratories to conserve antiques and monuments for posterity

5) Purchase of two steel almirahs, thirty nine pedestal fans, two emergency lights and one hundred and ten chairs 6) Excavation of historical site at Talaichankadu, Tranquebar Taluk of Nagapattinam District

7) One year scheme for copying of Inscriptions by recruiting trained unemployed students of Institute of Epigraphy

8) Purchase of three CCTV Cameras, three Ticket Sales Machine, four Invertors for certain museums and Showcases, Labels & Lighting systems for six site museums.

Conclusion

Archaeology helps us to understand the pristine glory of our ancestry, heritage, language and culture so that we may preserve our values and lead a dignified life. The Department of Archaeology is keen to preserve, portray and promote our Archaeological sites and treasures for the benefit of posterity.

DEPARTMENT OF MUSEUMS

Introduction

Museums collect and care for objects of scientific, artistic or historical importance and make them available for public viewing through exhibits. It may be permanent or temporary. Early Museums began as the private collections of wealthy individuals, families or institutions of art and rare or curious natural objects and artifacts. The International Council of Museums define Museum as “ permanent institutions in the service of society and of its development, open to the public, which acquires, conserves, researches, communicates and exhibits the tangible and intangible heritage of humanity and its environment for the purposes of education, study and enjoyment”.

Types of Museums

There are many types of museums, from very large collections in major cities, covering many of the categories below, to very small museums covering either a particular location in a general way, or a particular subject, such as an individual notable person. Categories include: fine arts, applied arts, craft, archaeology, anthropology and ethnology, history, cultural history, military history, science, technology, children’s museums, natural history, numismatics, botanical and zoological gardens and philately. Among them Government Museum, Chennai is a multipurpose museum which includes most of the above mentioned subjects. Bronzes, pre-historic and proto-historic antiquities, particularly those of Robert Bruce Foote collections, Adichanallur megalithic collections and Buddhist, Jain and Hindu sculptures. Of these, the Amaravati collections with Buddhist sculptures are note worthy. Large collections of rare zoological and botanical specimens add to the magnificence of Museum and make it inclusive. The Bronze gallery consisting of very rare collection is a major attraction for foreign tourists.

Significance

The Chennai Museum and the District Museums act as knowledge centres for the public and students. Museums are dedicated to make the people understand and appreciate the natural world, history and the record of artistic, scientific and technological achievements. They act as educational institutions and archaeological libraries providing opportunities for learning, understanding, appreciating and exploring the various facets of our evolution by people of diverse ages, interests, backgrounds and abilities. Museum is a window through which visitors view to enrich their knowledge and comprehend our culture. All categories of students, ranging from primary sections to research scholars can get academic inputs to update their knowledge from the museums.

Main Activities of Museums The main activities undertaken are:-

(i) Collection and preservation of objects

(ii) Scientific storage and aesthetic display of objects for visitors

(iii) Undertaking research activities individually or in association with other institutions, Universities and facilitate the research scholars and students by giving access to the collections and information

(iv) Documenting the collections, including cataloguing, publishing of printed catalogues, books, journals, etc.

(v) Conducting periodical exhibitions, lectures and programmes as part of the educational activities

(vi) Conservation and restoration of objects through its chemical conservation research laboratory; Promoting awareness on manuscripts conservation through the Manuscripts Conservation Centre functioning under the auspices of the National Manuscripts Mission.

District Museums

There are 20 District Museums located in Pudukottai, Salem, Madurai, Thiruchirappalli, Vellore, Erode, Cuddalore, Uthagamandalam, Coimbatore, Kanyakumari, Krishnagiri, Tirunelveli, Sivagangai, Tiruvarur, Palani, Nagappattinam, Kancheepuram, Ramanathapuram, Karur and Virudhunagar. Except the one at Pudukkottai, which has been in existence from the time of the erstwhile Pudukkottai State, all the others are of recent origin. The District Museums located at Erode, Ramanathapuram and Coimbatore were shifted to more spacious buildings to suit the convenience of the visitors.

Part II Schemes, 2009-2010

In view of Centenary Celebration of Pudukkottai Museum, Rs.80.00 lakhs was sanctioned under the Part II Scheme for the year 2009-2010 and the following works are taken up by Public Works Department, namely, construction of Audio Visual Room, replacement of Madras terrace roof in the Pudukkottai gallery and tiled roof of birds gallery into R.C.C., improvement in Skeleton Gallery and Birds Gallery. All the works are in progress. In order to strengthen the security of the Pudukkottai Museum installation of Closed Circuit Television Network is in full swing. After the completion of the above said works the Centenary Celebration of the Pudukkottai Museum will be held.

Twelfth Finance Commission Works

A sum of Rs.72.00 lakhs has been received for installation of HT Transformer in Government Museum, Chennai under Twelfth Finance Commission Grants and the work has been completed. During the financial year 2009-2010, a sum of Rs.183.00 lakhs was received and the following works were under taken by Public Works Department:-

Hindu Sculpture Gallery (Civil) - Rs.51.00 lakhs (Electrical ) - Rs. 4.00 lakhs

Jain Gallery (Civil) - Rs.18.00 lakhs (Electrical ) - Rs. 2.00 lakhs

Fish Gallery (Civil) - Rs.13.00 lakhs (Electrical) - Rs. 2.00 lakhs Main Building ( Civil) - Rs.70.00 lakhs ( Electrical ) - Rs.23.00 lakhs

Government of India - State Shared Schemes

The total cost of Refurbishment of Amaravati Gallery is Rs.62.50 lakhs of which the share of Government of India is Rs.50.00 lakhs and the share of State Government is Rs.12.50 lakhs (75:25). The works are nearing completion.

During 2008-2009 under the shared schemes a sum of Rs.42.50 lakhs has been received and the following works were completed during the year:-

• Reprint of publications, • Purchase of books for Museum Library • Purchase of Security Equipments.

Under the scheme “Promotion and Strengthening of Regional and Local Museums” a sum of Rs.8.50 crores has been sanctioned and Rs.5.50 crores received as 1st instalment of Government of India grants. From this grant the following major works will be taken up:-

• Construction of the Balance portion of Heritage Compound wall • Renovation of Centenary Exhibition Hall • Renovation of Rock & Cave Art Gallery • Providing facilities to the Differently Abled • Construction of Audio-Video Room and Conference Hall • Provision of Generator for the Museum Galleries

Significant outcome

The repairs and refurbishment of the front building and its Anthropology gallaries were taken up under Part II schemes for the years 2005-2006, 2006- 2007, 2007-2008, and 2008-2009 at a total estimated cost of Rs. 100.00 lakhs. Building renovation work has been completed. During the 2009-2010 electrical work both in the galleries and in the showcases are nearing completion.

During the year 2009-10, the following activities have been conducted in the Government Museum, Chennai:-

‘Earth Day’ was celebrated in the Government Museum, Chennai on 22.04.2009. An Exhibition and a series of lecture were arranged in the Centenary Exhibition Hall of the Government Museum, Chennai. It was inaugurated by the Chief Secretary to Government of Tamil Nadu, Thiru K. S. Sripathi, I.A.S. ‘Museum Day’ was celebrated from 18th April to 2nd May,2009 in the Government Museum, Chennai. Refurbished Coins Gallery was inaugurated on 18th May, 2009 in the Government Museum, Chennai. ‘Care of Museum Objects’ Training was conducted to 11 participants from all over India from 1.06.2009 to 30.06.2009. An Exhibition on ‘Molluscs’ was conducted from 23rd to 29th July, 2009 in the Centenary Exhibition Hall, Government Museum, Chennai. An Exhibition on ‘Vijayanagara Coins’ was conducted in the Centenary Exhibition Hall from 6th to 12th August 2009 ‘Madras Day’ Exhibition was conducted from 21st August to 27th August, 2009 in the Centenary Exhibition Hall, Government Museum, Chennai. International Women’s Association Endowment Lecture on ‘Early Metallurgical Development in Sri Lanka and Wider Asian Technological Traditions” was conducted on 10th September 2009 in the Museum Theatre, Government Museum, Chennai. A Workshop on ‘Plant Preservation and Modeling’ was conducted from 9th to 11th September, 2009 in the Centenary Exhibition Hall, Government Museum, Chennai. An Exhibition on ‘Copper Plates’ was conducted from 24thOctober to 3rd November, 2009 in the Centenary Exhibition Hall, Government Museum, Chennai. It was inaugurated by Thiru. Thangam Thennarasu, Hon’ble Minister for School Education and Archaeology. Children’s Day was celebrated on 14.11.2009 in a grand manner. Prizes were distributed to Children for their creative work on painting as well as for oratorical competition. Monthly lectures and exhibitions, Children’s Day celebrations were conducted by the District Museums. Sri Narayana Guruviah Endowment Lecture: Dr.Sudhakar, Associate Professor, History Department of the Loyola College, Chennai, delivered lecture on “Landmark in the Political History of Chennai” held on 06.01.2010 in Government Museum, Chennai Rao Bahadur Vemuru Ranganatham Chetty Endowment Lecture was held on 11.01.2010. Ms. Sanchita Balachandran, Conservator and Fulbright Scholar, USA., delivered Lecture on “Glorious Icons: How Bronze Images Transformed the Mission of the Government Museum, Chennai”. An Exhibition on “Snakes” was conducted. Thiru R. Sundararaju, I.F.S., Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Chief Wildlife Warden inaugurated the exhibition held on 02.02.2010 in Government Museum, Chennai. Exhibition on “STONES” was inaugurated by Dr. Vasudevan, Deputy Director General of Geological Survey of India (Retd), on 23.02.2010 in Government Museum, Chennai. Special Lecture was organised on 02.03.2010. Dr. Edna Carter Southard, Curator and Professor, Miami University, Oxford, Ohio, USA delivered lecture on “Museums and Memories - National Museum and Collective Memories”. A Special Exhibition on “Silver Punch-Marked Coins from Vaigainallur Village, Kulithalai Taluk of Karur District” was inaugurated by Thiru N. Harinarayana, Former Director of Museums on 08.03.2010. A special bulletin was released by Principal Secretary and Commissioner of Museums on this occasion. A Special Exhibition on “Mushrooms” was conducted and lecture on “Mushrooms” was delivered by Dr. Subramanian, Former Director of Advanced Studies in Botany, University of Madras on 10.03.2010 in Government Museum, Chennai.

Part II Schemes 2010-2011

The following schemes at a cost of Rs.27.00 lakhs have been approved by the State Planning Commission:-

1. Modernisation of Mammal Gallery in Chennai Museum 2. Panelling work in Contemporary Art Gallery in Chennai Museum 3. Construction of Sculpture Garden in the Thiruchirrappalli Museum 4. Development of Garden in Chennai Museum 5. Modernisation of existing Galleries and construction of modern show cases in Virudhunagar Museum 6. Conservation of South Indian Bronzes 7. New Publications in Chennai Museum.

Virtual Museum

A recent development, with the expansion of the web, is the establishment of virtual museums. Online initiatives provide physical museums with a web presence, as well as online curatorial platforms. Government Museum, Chennai is already having a small virtual tour in its website www.chennaimuseum.org. Now, it has been planned to develop a full-fledged Virtual Museum of Government Museum, Chennai in association with Tourism Directorate. It will facilitate the public to visit the Government Museum in pre-planned manner after viewing the galleries in the Virtual Museum.

Conclusion

Department of Museums, Government of Tamil Nadu strives to educate the public on the importance of our heritage and our cultural lineage by providing rich source of information on various subjects. The student community is motivated by several efforts to use the opportunity offered by the Department to enlarge the horizons of their knowledge by periodically paying visits to the Museums in their vicinity.

M. KARUNANIDHI, Chief Minister.