PORVORIM: As the proposed demolition of a part of Kala Academy is being debated widely, the government has said it is open to discussion with the artistes for an alternate arrangement to hold the commercial shows.
During a Zero Hour Mention tabled by NCP MLA Churchill Alemao, Art and Culture Minister Govind Gaude said the ticketed shows can be held at any private or government-funded auditoriums such as Ravindra Bhavans, Kala Mandir or Institute of Menezes Braganza (IMB).
Alemao raised his apprehension that the proposed move of the government would be a major setback for tiatr performances, which are held on a daily basis, gathering huge crowd.
“Where will you’ll place them. Our ‘mai bhas’ has also been preserved because of the tiatrs. Give an alternate venue if any renovation work of the Kala Academy is being undertaken,” he said urging urgent attention to ensure that the performances do not meet a dead-end.
Gaude said it was not possible to make an alternate arrangement as these are ticketed shows for the commercial purpose.
“The tiatrs are ticketed shows. It is impossible… if you an alternate venue it could be IMB’s room or for a more spacious place, Ravindra Bhavans and Kala Mandir could also be utilised. It however depends on the tiatr performers and the team,” he said.
The minister added that not only tiatrs but other events would also have to opt for another space if the institution undergoes renovation or repairs.
On being requested to hold meetings with the artistes, Gaude said the government is open on the proposal while adding that the government needed cooperation and coordination from the artistes and the public.
The issue has gained momentum with Charles Correa Foundation stating they were not consulted by the government either on the state of the building or its repairs.
While the issue was being discussed in the House, the High Court of Bombay at Goa took suo motu cognizance of the issue based on the media reports.
Advocate General Devidas Pangam sought time to file detailed affidavit and stated that government is in the process to audit the stability of the structure before taking a final call. The matter will be heard on August 19 as two weeks time is granted for filing of the affidavit.
