Chief Minister V. Narayanasamy on Sunday said the government had initiated steps to set up a centre for music therapy in Puducherry.
Speaking at the valedictory of the three-day Kamban Vizha at Kamban Kalai Arangam here, Mr. Narayanasamy said that music was widely used as a therapeutic tool abroad to promote wellness.
Music maestro Ilaiyaraaja had sought permission from the government to set up a music college here. The government has now initiated steps to set up a centre for music therapy and has also identified land for the purpose, he said.
In October last year, the music maestro had met the Chief Minister to explore options for launching a music college in the city.
At that time, the government had suggested a place near the Beach Road or tying up with the Bharathiar Palkalaikoodam, an institution on Cuddalore road established in commemoration of the birth centenary of poet Subramania Bharati and which offers courses in music, dance and fine arts.
The Chief Minister suggested to Mr. Ilaiyaraaja that he could consider a tie-up with the Bharathiar Palkalaikoodam in Ariankuppam on the Cuddalore Main Road.
Mr. Narayanasamy also stressed the need for protecting arts, culture and tradition for the future generation.
“With our arts slowly getting overshadowed by western culture and influence, there is every need to protect it,” he said. Earlier, the Chief Minister presented the Kamban Vizha award to veteran playback singer P. Susheela.
