NT Reporter
Pernem
The bhoomipujan for the Rs 113-crore Ravindra Bhavan at Tuem was held on Dussehra, marking the start of a project intended to provide Pernem’s artists with a dedicated
cultural facility.
The complex will be developed on a 50,000-square-metre plot at a centrally located site in Tuem.
“For many years, despite having a Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Ministers and ministers from Pernem, this dream remained unfulfilled. Today, as fellow MLAs, Mandrem MLA Jit Arolkar and I have delivered on our commitment to our artists under the leadership of Chief Minister Pramod Sawant,” said Pernem MLA Pravin Arlekar.
Arlekar said that Pernem had many artistes who had continued to practise their art for generations despite the absence of a dedicated government
cultural facility.
Ravindra Bhavan, he said, is a major development milestone alongside the Manohar International Airport at Mopa and the AYUSH Hospital.
“The complex will help nurture young talent and give artists from Pernem and Goa the impetus to gain national and international recognition,”
he said.
“The project is envisioned as a world-class cultural facility incorporating a Gurukul-based approach to learning. Presently, local performers have to travel to Margao, Curchorem and Canacona to access suitable performance
venues,” said Arlekar.
The Goa State Infrastructure Development Corporation (GSIDC) is executing the project, which has a reported built-up area of 13,000 sqm. The remaining land will accommodate open spaces, an open-air hall and other facilities. Some facilities will be rented out to generate revenue for maintenance
and staff salaries.
The complex will also house a specialised gurukul offering structured training in music, dance and theatre for children. An advisory committee comprising local artistes, lighting technicians and sound experts has been formed to ensure that the facility meets
performers’ needs.
