Creative grants: K-P funds artists to promote local culture

Special committee selects deserving locals for welfare

PESHAWAR: The directorate of culture has announced on Tuesday the approval of Rs5 million for the welfare of artists. The funding will be distributed among deserving artists by next week.

Director Mehmood Khan told The Express Tribune that 114 singers, actors, musicians, poets and writers were selected by a special committee of artists and government officials.

Secretary Azam Khan approved the funds for artists struggling due to the lack of cultural activities in the province. “There have been hundreds of applications submitted by artists and singers during the last couple of years; however, no action was taken by the government,” said Mehmood, adding there were a total of 355 applications of financial assistance.

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Some of the artists selected for funding included Khyal Muhmmad, Hidayatullah, Ahmad Gul, Akbar Husain, Zarsanga, Mashooq Sultan, Aqal Mena, Almas Khalil, Naeem Jan, Gulab Sher, Jalil Shabnum, Sardar Ali, Zeenat Mahal, drama artist Samina Sahar, Ashiq Husain, Ishrat Abbas, Iftikhar Qaiser, Sohail Asad and film star Aman.

“These are artists who have played an important role in the promotion of our culture,” said Mehmood, adding, “We are trying to take steps for their welfare so they can continue their services in a better manner.”

Earlier in July, the directorate proclaimed another Rs30,000 out of the Rs180 million allocation to be provided to deserving artists. A committee will soon be formed for this purpose.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 14^th, 2015.