Pune: Lavani artiste Surekha Punekar warns of agitation if dace bars are not closed in Maharashtra

Pune: DJ music is played at almost all cultural and arts centres in the State. Thousands of artists are forced to starve due to this. Therefore, the government should take action against such centres. This demand has been raised by Cultural Centre President Dhondiram Jawale and Senior Lavani Dancer Surekha Punekar.

Punekar said, “Lavani is Maharashtra’s traditional art, which needs to be protected. Traditional music and musical instruments are being neglected due to rising demand for DJ music. Artistes are losing their livelihood. Many of them have ended their lives. We have submitted many petitions to the government but no concrete action has been taken. Dance bars should be closed, failing which an agitation will be launched.”

Jawale said, “As many as 82 Cultural Centres have been set up to preserve Maharashtra’s art and culture. The rule states that dancers, singers, Tabla-Dholki-Harmonium players should be included in an art and cultural centre. However, the rule is violated and DJ music is played at almost 48 centres. This has led to starvation of Tabla-Dholki-Harmonium players, along with singers. Traditional instrument players are not getting work. They are facing financial problems. Many of them are unable to make both ends meet. Therefore, action should be taken against centres violating the rule.”