: The Department of Art and Culture launched the ``Windows of Culture’’ forum here on Saturday under the aegis of which cultural events would be staged at the Old Collectorate Museum every week.
Housing Minister R. Vaithilingam launched the forum and expressed the hope that artistes would scale newer heights under the patronage of the State Government utilizing the schemes extended to them.
He gave away the Kalai Ilamani, Kalai Valarmani, Kalai Sudarmani, Kalai Nanmani and Kalai Mudhumani awards to 15 selected artistes pertaining to the years 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2014-15 on the occasion.
Mr. Vaithilingam handed over ``thappu’ percussion instrument free of cost to five folk artistes on the occasion.
Collector N. Subbaiyan said the museum established in the aesthetically appealing Old Collectorate buildings would receive and conserve ancient artefacts from individuals and showcase them for posterity.
Deputy Director of Art and Culture R. Gunasekaran noted that cultural events would be held every Saturday under the aegis of the Windows of Culture forum at the Old Collectorate campus featuring performing artistes from all over the State.
Mayiladuthurai MP R.K. Bharathi Mohan, Thanjavur MLA M. Rengasamy, Mayor Savithri Gopal, Tourism Officer A. Rajasekaran, and others spoke.
