The Covid-19 outbreak and the ongoing lockdown measures have led to cancellation of all cultural events since past five months, which as a result has taken its toll on the young and budding artists who have been suffering immensely. Considering that, Dhananjay Gokhale and other members of ‘Mitra Foundation’ decided to extend a helping hand to such artists by providing aid of Rs. 5,000 each to about 50 students.
Gokhale said, “Many artists are suffering due to the lockdown as they do not have any other source of livelihood besides music. These artists work hard and give their 100 percent to music despite being financially unstable. As this must be a difficult time for them, we decided to provide some aid to them so that they should continue with their practice. It’s a small gesture from our end to acknowledge and salute their efforts.”
The Foundation donated Rs. 5,000 to the young disciples of Taalyogi Pt. Suresh Talwalkar, Senior Kathak Dancer, Guru Shama Bhate and Guru Maneesha Sathe, Pt. Ramdas Palsule, Pt. Shaunak Abhisheki and Pt. Mukesh Jadhav and other budding artists.
Besides that, the Foundation has also donated Rs 25,000 to the organization ‘Artist for Artists, formed by famous vocalists and musicians including Kaushiki Chakraborty, Mahesh Kale, Rakesh Chaurasia and Purbayan Chatterjee.
Speaking on the issue, Pt. Talwalkar said, “It is not only the artists who serve music but also those who love music from the bottom of their hearts. Those who are aware of the problems faced by the artists and help them promote their musical programs are also serving music. The financial help that Mitra Foundation has given to our students is truly huge, significant and invaluable.”
“The Corona pandemic has affected people from all walks of life, especially the students and artists from the music industry whose source of income is only through concerts. The help provided by Mitra Foundation to artists is truly admirable and inspiring,” said Vishal Somvanshi, disciple of Pt. Mukesh Jadhav.
