2026-01-02 · News
A significant boost for art and culture in Assam is on the horizon. The state government has announced that the Goods and Services Tax (GST) revenue generated from a film featuring popular Assamese artist Zubeen Garg will be directed towards the Kalaguru Bishnu Rabha Foundation. This decision, revealed recently, promises to provide substantial financial support to the foundation's initiatives promoting and preserving Assam's rich cultural heritage.
GST Revenue Allocation
According to Assam's Chief Minister, the sum of Rs 2.90 crore, collected as GST from the film, will be specifically allocated to the Kalaguru Bishnu Rabha Foundation. This move highlights the government's commitment to reinvesting revenue generated from the entertainment sector back into cultural development. The decision has been widely welcomed by artists, cultural enthusiasts, and members of the foundation, who see it as a significant step towards strengthening the region's artistic landscape.
The Kalaguru Bishnu Rabha Foundation
The Kalaguru Bishnu Rabha Foundation is dedicated to perpetuating the legacy of Bishnu Rabha, a renowned artist, freedom fighter, and cultural icon of Assam. The foundation undertakes various activities aimed at promoting art, music, literature, and other forms of cultural expression. These activities include organizing workshops, seminars, festivals, and providing support to emerging artists. The infusion of Rs 2.90 crore is expected to significantly enhance the foundation's ability to execute its programs and reach a wider audience.
Impact on Assam's Cultural Landscape
The allocation of GST revenue to the Kalaguru Bishnu Rabha Foundation is anticipated to have a positive ripple effect across Assam's cultural landscape. The funding will enable the foundation to expand its existing programs, initiate new projects, and offer greater support to artists and cultural organizations throughout the state. This will not only contribute to the preservation of traditional art forms but also foster innovation and creativity in contemporary arts.
Government's Commitment to Cultural Promotion
This initiative underscores the Assam government's broader commitment to promoting and preserving the state's cultural heritage. By channeling revenue generated from the film industry into cultural organizations, the government is creating a sustainable model for supporting the arts. This approach recognizes the important role that art and culture play in shaping society, fostering community identity, and driving economic growth through tourism and creative industries.
Looking Ahead
The Kalaguru Bishnu Rabha Foundation is expected to announce specific plans for utilizing the allocated funds in the near future. These plans are likely to include initiatives focused on supporting young artists, preserving traditional art forms, and promoting cultural exchange programs. The foundation's efforts, supported by the GST revenue, are poised to make a lasting contribution to Assam's vibrant cultural scene. The move sets a precedent for how revenue from the entertainment industry can be used to bolster the arts and cultural heritage of the region, contributing to its overall growth and development.
