Mini Shilparamam a boon to eastern part of city

Uppal: Mini Shilparamam at Uppal is all set to open on June 22 and the people from east need not rush to Shilparamam at Madhapur. The 7.5-acre open land given by Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) is located on the banks of river Musi. It is being constructed very near Nagole metro Station. Special officer of Shilparamam Kishan Rao conducted a meeting at Mini Shilparamam premises and explained its salient features.

Shilparamam is an arts, crafts and cultural village registered under the Telangana Societies Registration Act, which functions under the aegis of Chief Minister as the chairman of general body and Chief Secretary as chairman of executive body. It is designed to jell with a rural ambience to showcase the country's rich cultural heritage and to provide a platform where artists and artisans keep art forms alive and showcase their skills.

Kishan Rao said, "Following representations from general public to TRS working president KTR about lack of recreational avenues, opportunities and facilities in eastern zone of the city, KTR promised a Mini Shilparamam in Uppal. On getting the instructions, HMDA has provided seven-and-a-half acres land on the banks of River Musi to us and a financial assistance of Rs 5 crore in two installments." He further added, "The total amount sanctioned for the project is Rs 10 crore and the remaining Rs 5 crore will be given in second phase with which it will be developed further. We are planning a grand launch on 22nd of this month in the hands of Home Minister Md. Mahmood Ali in the presence of V Srinivas Goud, Ch Malla Reddy and Talasani Srinivas Yadav."

Kishan Rao further said many had apprehensions about the stench which would emanate from the River Musi, "but the government gave us a hope that it will be revived soon. We temporarily made some arrangements to get rid of the unpleasant smell. Initial entry ticket will be Rs 20 for adults and Rs 10 for children whereas parking rates will be Rs 10 for four-wheelers and Rs 5 for two-wheelers."

There are 50 stalls which would be allotted to the registered original artisans of handlooms and handicrafts on rotation basis. An amphi-theatre exists and will be used for a variety of programmes representing great Indian culture on every Saturday and Sunday. Even plays can be enacted there. It is a place to promote arts, crafts and culture, rich traditions and heritage under one umbrella."