POLICY NOTE

2010 – 2011

DEPARTMENT OF ART AND CULTURE

Introduction

“Art transcends all the boundaries and barriers”. That is why Poet
Bharathiyar urged us to travel to various parts of the world and bring all
treasures to enrich our artistic wealth.

Art and Culture break the monotony and add beauty to our lives. We
cannot imagine a world without music, dance, poetry, painting, sculpture and
drama. It will make the world a mundane without any life and existence will be
inane and insipid. Art forms require the patronage of Government for their
continuity and preservation.

Tourism and Culture are intertwined. Culture promotes Tourism and

Tourism is benefited by the rich varieties of our Culture. After the formation of
Tourism and Culture Department, convergence has been systematically effected
by proper coordination between the two sectors by conscious efforts.

The first and paramount job of Department of Art and Culture is to

introduce the best form of arts to the people, encouraging and uplifting the
artistes, through which culture is fostered for posterity. This Department works for
the revival of significant art forms and takes efforts to propagate Thamizhisai in
the nooks and corners of our State.

Department of Art and Culture

The Department of Art and Culture is headed by a Commissioner of Art

and Culture. It facilitates and regulates the functions of all the Government
institutions related to Art and Culture. The functioning of Government Music
colleges, Government Music schools, Government colleges for Fine Arts,
Government college for Architecture and Sculpture, Jawahar Bala Bhavan and
Oviaya Nunkalai Kuzhu are monitored and administered by the Department in an
effective manner.

1. Regional Cultural Centres

The Directorate of Art and Culture has six Regional Cultural Centres at
Kancheepuram, Thanjavur, Salem, Madurai, Tirunelveli and Thiruchirappalli. The
Regional Cultural Centres co-ordinate the cultural activities of the District Art
Societies, the District Music Schools and the Jawahar Siruvar Manrams at district
level. They are manned by Assistant Directors. They also liaise with Eyal Isai
Nataka Mandram, Ovia Nunkalai Kuzhu, Folk Artistes Welfare Board and South
Zone Cultural Centre to organize cultural events and conduct training
programmes. They organise several art festivals like Tamil Isai Vizha, Karthigai
Oli Vizha, Pongal Kalai Vizha, Nattupura Kalai Vizha, Paavai Vizha, Saaral
Vizha, Sirkazhi Moovar Vizha, Kattabomman Birthday Celebration, Aruvi
Thiruvizha, Kumari Thiruvizha, Sadaya Vizha, Azhither Vizha, Kodai Vizha,
Matha Nallinakka Vizha etc.

2 District Art Societies

District Art Societies were formed to identify artistic talents at District level
and provide opportunities for their exposition. Identification Cards are issued to
various artistes through these Societies so that they may avail financial
assistance, priority in cultural programmes and concession in travel are availed
by producing these cards.

3. Folk Artistes Welfare Board

In order to provide social security and welfare schemes to folk artistes,

Tamil Nadu Folk Artistes Welfare Board was created and Tamil Nadu
Government have initially sanctioned Rs.1 crore to the Welfare Board to provide
various benefits to Folk Artistes.
3.1 Registration of Folk Artistes

Any folk artiste who has completed the age of 18 years but not completed
60 years, may register his / her name with the board to become a member of the
scheme. 20,661 folk artistes have become members of the Board up to March
2010.

3.2 Welfare Schemes

A sum of Rs.32.09 lakhs has been spent so far towards various welfare
schemes to 2381 folk artistes.

3.2.1 Assistance for purchase of Spectacles

A maximum amount of Rs. 500/- for spectacles is given to members. An

amount of Rs.5.21 lakhs has been provided upto March 2010 towards purchase
of spectacles to 1047 members.

3.2.2 Assistance for Education

Assistance for Education is provided to the son / daughter of folk artiste

subject to maximum of 2 children starting from class X up to Post Graduate level
and Professional courses along with hostel fees depending upon the course. An
amount of Rs.15.51 lakhs has been provided upto March 2010 for education to
1159 members.

3.2.3 Assistance for Marriage

Assistance to meet the marriage expenses of the folk artiste or his son or
daughter is provided. An amount of Rs.2.36 lakhs has been given for marriage
assistance to 118 members upto March 2010.

3.2.4 Assistance for Delivery of a Child

Under this scheme, a female folk artiste member is provided with a sum of
Rs.6,000/- towards delivery for maximum 2 children. An amount of Rs.30,000/-
has been provided so far to 5 members upto March 2010.
3.2.5 Assistance for Miscarriage / Termination of
Pregnancy

For miscarriage / termination of pregnancy, an amount of Rs.3,000/- is

provided towards hospital expenses for maximum 2 times . In Chennai one
member is benefited under this scheme upto March 2010.

3.2.6 Natural Death / Funeral expenses

If a registered folk artiste dies naturally, a sum of Rs.15,000/- will be given

to the nominee of the deceased registered folk artiste and a sum of Rs.2,000/-
will be given to the nominee of the deceased registered folk artiste to meet the
funeral expenses. A total amount of Rs.8.67 lakhs has been provided to 51
members under this scheme upto March 2010.

3.3 Free Medical Camp

Free medical camps were conducted in 21 districts and 4614 members

and their family members were benefited so far.

3.4 Allotment of Free House Site Pattas

Free house site pattas have been issued to 86 folk artistes in Villupuram,
Namakkal and Madurai Districts, in 2009-2010. Applications received for issue
of free house site pattas are being sent to the concerned District Collectors for
necessary action as soon as received from the folk artistes.

3.5 Free Musical Instruments

Thanjavur District Collector has provided free musical instruments worth

Rs.42,000 to the folk artistes. Similarly, Erode District Collector has provided
free musical instruments worth Rs.90,200/-, Krishnagiri District Collector,
musical instruments worth Rs.10,000/- and Theni District Collector, Rs 52,400/-
worth of musical instruments and Villupuram District Collector, Rs. 39,000/-
worth of musical instruments to folk artistes.
 To encourage the Folk Artistes, chances are given to perform folk arts in
“Poongavil Poongatru”, “Mamallapuram Indian Dance Festival” and other
Government functions.

3.6 Kalaignar’s Insurance Scheme

Photos of the members and family members of folk artistes were taken for
providing identity cards under “Life saving treatment of Kalaignar Insurance
scheme”. Folk Artistes and their family are benefited under this scheme.

4. Art Educational Institutions

Music Schools and Music Colleges were established to provide formal

education in music. The students of Music Colleges are given Rs.250/- per
month as stipend for ten months. Floor mats were purchased to Music Colleges
at a cost of Rs.2 lakhs in 2009-2010. Furnitures at a cost of Rs.1 lakh and
electrical lights and fans at a cost of Rs.1 lakh have been provided to Chennai
Music College.

4.1 Government Music College, Chennai

It was established in 1949. Three-Year Diploma courses in Folk Arts,

Bharathanatyam, Vocal and instrumental music (Violin, Veena, Mridangam,
Flute, Gadam, Kanchira, Mugarsing, Nadaswaram, Thavil) are offered. Two-Year
Post Diploma Courses in Vocal Music (Muthukalai Isai Kalaimani), Two-Year
Diploma Course in Nattuvangam and One-Year Diploma Course in Music
Teachers Training are offered here.

4.1.1 Poongavil Poongatru

‘Poongavil Poongatru’ ( Music in the Park) is a new venture by the

Department of Art and Culture to take Tamil Isai to the common people.
‘Poongavil Poongatru’ is being conducted on all Saturdays in any one of the
Parks in Chennai Corporation. Apart from Tamil Isai, various folk arts are also
performed in the above programme. People of Chennai City have welcomed the
‘Poongavil Poongatru’ programme.

4.2 Government Music College, Madurai

It was commenced in 1979. Three-Year Diploma Courses in Vocal,

Veena, Violin, Mridangam, Flute, Nadaswaram, Bharathanatyam and Folk Art
and One-Year Diploma Course in Music Teachers Training are offered in this
College.

4.3 Government Music College, Coimbatore

This college is functioning since 1993. It offers Three Year Diploma

Courses in Vocal, Violin, Veena and Bharathanatyam and One-Year Diploma
Course in Music Teachers Training.

4.4 Government Music College, Thiruvaiyaru

It was started in 1997. In this College, Three-Year Diploma Courses in

Vocal, Violin, Veena, Mridangam, Bharathanatyam, Nadaswaram and Thavil and
Three-Year Degree Course in Vocal Music are offered. The college is functioning
in the new premises with enhanced infrastructure.

4.5 Evening Music College Centres

Two Centres are functioning at Chennai and one at Madurai. Two-Year

Certificate Courses are offered in Vocal, Veena and Violin in Chennai
Thiyagarayanagar Centre; Vocal, Veena, Violin and Mridhangam in Music
College Campus Centre. Vocal, Veena, Violin, Mridhangam and Bharathanatyam
are offered in Madurai Centre.

4.6 Government District Music Schools

In order to encourage the youth who are interested in music, Government

District Music Schools are functioning in 17 places, namely Thiruvarur,
Tirunelveli, Thiruchirappalli, Salem, Pudukkottai, Villupuram, Cuddalore,
Perambalur, Thoothukudi, Karur, Kancheepuram, Tiruvannamalai, Sivagangai,
Krishnagiri, Seerkazhi, Erode and Ramanathapuram. They offer Three-Year
Certificate Courses in Vocal Music, Bharathanatyam, Nadaswaram, Thavil and
Thevaram. Violin and Mridhangam courses were started during the year 2007-
2008.

4.7 Government Fine Arts Colleges

4.7.1 Government College of Fine Arts, Chennai

It was established in 1850. In this College, Four-Year Degree Courses

and Two-Year Post Graduate Degree Courses in the following disciplines are
offered:

Degree Courses

1. Industrial Design in Ceramic

2. Industrial Design in Textile
3. Visual Communication Design
4. Painting
5. Sculpture
6. Print Making

Post Graduate Degree Courses

1. Painting
2. Visual Communication Design
3. Industrial Design in Ceramic
4. Industrial Design in Textile
5. Sculpture

Syllabi of this College are approved by the Madras University. A sum of

Rs.6.65 lakhs has been sanctioned to this college for purchase of new electrical
kiln. A sum of Rs.1.75 lakhs has been provided for creation of metal casting
foundry for sculpture students, a sum of Rs.3.73 lakhs has been provided for
purchase of Easel Chairs (stands) Desks, Stools and a sum of Rs.1.13 lakhs has
been provided for purchase of computers and accessories to Government
College of Fine Arts, Chennai.
4.7.2 Government College of Fine Arts, Kumbakonam

It was started in 1887. In this College, Four Year Degree Courses and
Two Year Post Graduate Degree Courses in the following disciplines are
conducted:

Degree Courses

1. Painting
2. Visual Communication Design
3. Sculpture

Post Graduate Degree Courses

1. Painting
2. Sculpture

Syllabi of this College are approved by the Bharathidasan University,

Thiruchirappalli. A sum of Rs.50 lakhs has been provided for construction of
new building to Museum Art Gallery, a sum of Rs.1 lakh has been provided for
purchase of Photo Copying machine, a sum of Rs.1.75 lakhs has been provided
for creation of metal casting foundary, a sum of Rs.3.72 lakhs has been provided
for purchase of Easel Chairs (Stands), Desks, Stools and a sum of Rs.1.12 lakhs
has been provided for purchase of computers and accessories to the
Government College of Fine Arts, Kumbakonam.

Refresher Training Camps are being conducted for the Drawing Teachers
District wise working in schools under the control of Directorate of School
Education in the name of “ ENNANGALIL VANNANGAL “ through the
Government College of Fine Arts, Chennai and Kumbakonam
4.7.3 Government College of Architecture and
Sculpture, Mamallapuram

Mamallapuram is considered as the museum of Indian Architecture. It is a

UNESCO declared heritage monument for showcasing Indian rock architecture.
It has bas-relief, monoliths and cave temples in one place. The Government
College of Architecture and Sculpture was established in Mamallapuram in 1957.
Four Year Degree Courses are offered in this College from 2000-2001. B.Tech in
Traditional Architecture, B.F.A in Traditional Sculpture and B.F.A in Traditional
Drawing and Painting are offered. A sum of Rs.1 lakh has been sanctioned to
this college for conduct of Exhibition in 2009-2010. The sculptures carved by this
college depicting the various scenes from Tamil Classical Literature and History
find a place in ‘ Semmozhi Sirpa Poonga’ at Mamallapuram. It has become an
additional attraction for the tourists to visit and comprehend our prestigious
heritage.

4.8 Kalaikaveri College of Fine Arts, Tiruchirappalli

Kalai Kaveri College of Fine Arts in Tiruchirappalli is an aided College.

The administrative control of this College was brought under the Department of
Art and Culture in 2000 -2001. Grants to this College are being released through
the Directorate of Collegiate Education. Five-Year Integrated Degree Courses,
Three-Year Degree Courses, Two-Year Post Graduate Degree Courses in the
following disciplines are offered in this College:

1. Bharathanatyam
2. Vocal Music
3. Violin
4. Veena
5. Mridhangam.

5. South Zone Cultural Centre, Thanjavur

South Zone Cultural Centre, Thanjavur function under the Chairmanship

of His Excellency, the Governor of Tamil Nadu. It is a Government of India
organization for the southern region run with the countenance of the southern
States. It organizes cultural programmes and events in co-ordination with the
Department of Art and Culture. The Indian Dance Festival at Mamallapuram gets
enriched every year by the participation of artistes sponsored by the South Zone
Cultural Centre. Rs.16 lakhs was provided to the Department of Art and Culture
for conducting cultural functions through Regional Cultural Centres in 2009-2010.

6. Tamil Nadu Eyal Isai Nataka Manram

Tamil Nadu Sangeet Nataka Sangam was established by the Government

of Tamil Nadu in the year 1955 to achieve the objectives of the Central Sangeet
Natak Akademi at State level and foster traditional Tamil Arts. It was renamed as
Tamil Nadu Eyal Isai Nataka Manram in the year 1973. This organisation is
implementing several schemes from the grants sanctioned by the State
Government.

6.1 Schemes of Cultural Activities

The main activities of the Manram consists of exchange of cultural troupes

between the States, sanctioning of monthly financial assistance to the indigent
artistes and sanctioning of family maintenance grant to the families of deceased
famous artistes. It encourages talented budding artistes by providing
opportunities for their performances through various cultural organizations of
Tamil Nadu. It is responsible for conferring “Kalaimamani” awards to the artistes
for their yeomen service to the enrichment of performing arts. It extends grants to
professional drama troupes for production and staging of Tamil dramas depicting
our ancient culture and heritage. It sanctions grants for publication of rare books
in the field of art and culture. Works like releasing of grants to voluntary cultural
organizations towards the commemorative festival of savants, conducting various
cultural festivals for the benefit of the artistes, documentation of rare forms of
traditional arts to enable the future generation to know about them, recording and
preserving of music programmes of the senior artistes and encouraging research
on our folk arts and traditional classical fine arts are undertaken by this wing of
the department.
6.2 Conferment of Kalaimamani Award

With a view to felicitating the famous artistes who are contributing in a

commendable manner in the field of performing arts, the Tamil Nadu Eyal Isai
Nataka Manram is conferring “Kalaimamani” Awards. So far 1521 artistes have
been honoured. In the functions so far organized for conferring Kalaimamani
award, portraits of 336 eminent deceased artistes in various art disciplines have
been unveiled. At the “Kalaimamani” award investiture ceremonies, Porkizhi
(Cash Award) is being awarded to senior Kalaimamani artistes. In this way,
Porkizhi has been given totally to 202 artistes. With a view to encouraging and
felicitating the voluntary cultural organizations and splendid performing drama
troupes, 28 cultural organizations and 19 drama troupes were awarded Shields
and Rolling Shields till date.

6.3 Financial Assistance to Indigent Artistes

Under this scheme, Rs.500/- per month was given as financial assistance
to the aged famous artistes and men of letters who are now in indigent
circumstances. The Government have issued orders for enhancing the financial
assistance to Rs.1000/- from the financial year 2006. 500 indigent artistes
were benefited by the new sanctions made during 2009-2010.

6.4 Family Maintenance Grant to the Families of

Deceased Famous Artistes

The bereaved families of the deceased artistes are given family

maintenance grant. Under this scheme 88 families at the rate of Rs.2000/- and
77 families at the rate of Rs.3000/- and 81 families at the rate of Rs.5000/- and
112 families at the rate of Rs.6000/- have benefited.

6.5 Inter State Cultural Exchange Programme

It is essential to create opportunities for the outsiders to know about the

arts and cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu so as to promote national integration. A
scheme known as Inter-State Cultural Exchange Programme is being
implemented by the Manram with the co-ordination of Sangeet Natak Akademi to
achieve this objective. Under this scheme, 81 cultural troupes from other States
have visited Tamil Nadu and 84 cultural troupes of Tamil Nadu have also visited
to other States.

6.6 Encouragement of Talented Young Artistes

In order to provide an avenue to the budding artistes in Bharathanatyam,

Classical Vocal and Instrumental Music, the Manram extends grant to effective
Voluntary Cultural Organizations of Tamil Nadu for conducting performances. Till
date, 1823 young artistes have benefited under the scheme.

6.7 Grants to Folk Artistes / Troupes for Purchase of

Musical instruments and Costumes

The Manram extends grants to folk artistes and troupes for costumes and
musical instruments. Under this scheme, a sum of Rs.750/- is given to each folk
artiste and Rs.2500/- to each troupe. So far, 1425 folk artistes / troupes have
been benefited.

6.8 Grants for the Production of New Dramas

Under this scheme, grants to Drama troupes for the production and
staging of new Tamil plays based on Tamil art and culture are given.

6.9 Grants for the Production of New Dance Dramas

Under this scheme grants are given for the production and staging of new
Tamil dance-dramas based on Tamil literature and culture.

6.10 Grants for the Publication of Rare Books on Arts

Financial assistance has been sanctioned to publish books on art. Under

this scheme, 104 books have been published. Action is being taken to publish
books at a cost of Rs.2 lakhs on the life history of eminent deceased artistes
whose portraits have been unveiled.
6.11 Documentation on Dramaturgy

Pursuant to the sanction of Rupees Ten lakhs by the Government to the

Manram, action has been initiated to document and preserve the photos of the
drama artistes, their voices and scene of the dramas and to collect the
costumes, dresses, sceneries and stage materials, which were used by the
deceased famous artistes to exhibit for the younger generation to know about the
dramaturgy.

6.12 Documentation on Traditional Tamil Isai

Documentation about the traditional Tamil Isai, portraying life history from
Seerkazhi tripartite to Rajarathinam Pillai is under progress.

6.13 Organising Camp on Muthamizh

It is proposed to conduct Training course on Literature, Music and Drama

during summer holidays with the help of eminent artistes and creators in the
concerned fields, similar to that of the film appreciation course conducted by the
Pune Film Institute.

6.14 Construction of a Guest House for the Artistes

For staying of the artistes, who come from other Districts to Chennai, a
Guest House measuring 363.90 Square meter have been constructed in the
premises of the Tamil Nadu Eyal Isai Nataka Manram. An amount of Rs.10.50
lakhs has been sanctioned for providing furniture and fittings in the Guest House.
Further, a standard Digital Audio-Visual Library in the name of “Kalaignar Thirai
Arangam”, having world wide cinemas and musical records has been established
in the premises of the Manram.
6.15 Conferment of All India Level Awards for the Artistes in the field of
Literature, Music and Dance

In order to felicitate the artistes who have contributed at the National level
in the disciplines of literature, music and dance, three awards, each carrying
one lakh rupees have been instituted in the name of “Bharathi”,
“M. S. Subbulakshmi” and “Balasaraswathy” respectively.

6.16 Cultural Festivals of the Manram

With a view to know about the importance of our extinguishing traditional

art forms, by our younger generation and provide sufficient programme
opportunities to the folk artistes, the Tamil Nadu Eyal Isai Nataka Manram is
organising various cultural functions and conducting folk festivals.

The Manram is also extending grants to Voluntary Cultural Organisations

for their various art projects.

7. Tamil Nadu Ovia Nunkalai Kuzhu

It was established in the year 1975, for preserving, promoting and

propagating fine arts such as Painting, Sculpture and Graphics. The schemes of
the Kuzhu are implemented with the grant- in- aid sanctioned by the
Government.

7.1 Scheme of conferring ‘Kalaichemmal’ Awards

“KALAICHEMMAL” awards are conferred on the eminent artists of Tamil

Nadu in recognition of their meritorious service in the fields of Traditional and
Contemporary Arts. A cash award of Rs.20,000/- each and a citation plaque are
given to them. Till date, 11 eminent artists of Painting and Sculpture in traditional
field and 42 artists of Painting and Sculpture in contemporary field have been
conferred with this title.

7.2 Scheme of conducting State level exhibition of traditional art and

giving awards

State level Exhibition of Traditional Art is conducted by the Ovia Nunkalai

Kuzhu. For outstanding creations, an Exhibition Award of Rs.15,000/-each is
given to five “Senior Artists” above 30 years of age and Rs.5,000/- each to 10
“Junior Artists” who are below 30 years of age.

7.3 Scheme of conducting exhibition of contemporary art and giving

awards

State level Exhibition of Contemporary Art is conducted by the Ovia

Nunkalai Kuzhu and artists are encouraged. For outstanding creations, an
Exhibition Award of Rs.15,000/- each is given to five participating “Senior Artists”
who have completed 30 years of age and Rs.5,000/-each is given to 10
participating “Junior Artists” who have not completed 30 years of age.

7.4 Scheme of financial assistance to artists for

conducting one-man shows or group shows

Financial assistance of Rs.5,000/- per exhibition is given to the artists in

Tamil Nadu to conduct their exhibitions either individually or collectively as a
group.

7.5 Scheme of awarding scholarships to young

artists

For encouraging the students of Government Fine Arts Colleges at

Chennai and Kumbakonam, a scholarship of Rs.5,000/- each is given to
outstanding final year Post Graduate Degree students and Rs.3,000/- each to
outstanding final year Degree students. Till now, 528 Degree students and 70
Post Graduate students have been given scholarships.
7.6 Art Galleries at Districts

Three Art Galleries of Ovia Nunkalai Kuzhu with creative pieces of

eminent artists of Tamil Nadu are functioning at Udhagamandalam, Madurai and
Art Gallery at Government College of Fine Arts, Chennai.

8. Tamil Nadu Jawahar Siruvar Mandram

Tamil Nadu Jawahar Siruvar Mandram was established in 1979 at

Chennai. The aim of this Institution is to inculcate artistic talent and aesthetic
fervour in the minds of children between five and sixteen years of age.

In Tamil Nadu Jawahar Siruvar Mandrams function in 36 places: in 24

places as District Jawahar Siruvar Manrams, in 10 places as Jawahar Siruvar
Mandram Extension Centres and in two places as Jawahar Siruvar Mandram
Rural Centres.

8.1 District Jawahar Siruvar Mandrams

District Jawahar Siruvar Mandrams are functioning at Chennai,

Pudukkottai, Madurai, Udhagamandalam, Coimbatore, Tiruchirappalli,
Cuddalore, Nagercoil, Thanjavur, Kancheepuram, Sivagangai, Tirunelveli,
Salem, Ramanathapuram, Dindigul, Dharmapuri, Krishnagiri, Theni, Vellore,
Tiruvallur, Erode, Thiruvarur, Virudhunagar and Villupuram.

8.2 Jawahar Siruvar Mandram Extension Centres

Jawahar Siruvar Mandram Extension Centres are functioning at

Perambalur, Thanjavur, Kulithalai, Karur, Chennai (Dr.M.G.R Deaf and Dumb
School, Ramapuram), Madurai, Thoothukkudi, Nagapattinam, Thiruvannamalai
and Namakkal.
8.3 Jawahar Siruvar Mandram Rural Centres

Two Rural Centres for imparting artistic talents to children are effectively
functioning in Ponpudupatti, Pudukkottai district and Ellis Nagar at Madurai.

8.4 Part time training in Jawahar Siruvar Mandram

Part time training in the following 20 disciplines are given in Jawahar

Siruvar Mandrams:- Bharathanatyam, Folk Dance, Crafts, Vocal, Drama,
Gymnastics, Mirudhangam, Tabela, Karathe, Computer, Keyboard, Veena,
Drums, Bands, Tailoring, Drawing & Painting, Screen Printing, Flute, Yoga and
silambattam.

At Chennai, training is given for six days in a week in 16 disciplines. In the

District Jawahar Siruvar Mandrams and Extension Centres, training is given for
three days in a week in four disciplines. In Rural Centres, training is given for
three days in a week in two disciplines. Around 8865 children are being trained
in all the Jawahar Siruvar Mandrams in our State. Children libraries are
functioning in all Jawahar Siruvar Mandrams except two Rural Jawahar Siruvar
Mandrams and Krishnagiri District Jawahar Siruvar Mandram.

For the benefit of the children residing in Chennai and to spread the
Jawahar Siruvar Mandram activities, five Centres were started in residential
areas. Training is given in 14 activities in Periyar Nagar Centre, 11 activities in
Vyasarpadi Krishnamurthy Nagar Centre, five activities in Tambaram Selaiyur
Centre, six activities in Puzhuthivakkam Centre and two activities in West
Tambaram. All these Centres are functioning on all Saturdays and Sundays.

In 40 Chennai Corporation schools, after school hours, Jawahar Siruvar

Mandram gives cultural training in Dance, Vocal, Drawing and Painting for three
days in a week. In 18 Corporation schools, training is given for children in dance,
in 22 schools training is given for children in Vocal Music. Free Bharathanatya
Arangetrams were conducted to three students of Chennai Periyar Nagar Centre.
8.5 Children Camps

From Tamilnadu Jawahar Siruvar Mandrams, 125 children participated in

the South Zone Bal Shree selection camp held at Thiruvananthapuram, 16
children in the National Bal Shree Selection held at New Delhi, 42 Children, in
the National Childrens’ Assembly held at New Delhi and 14 children
participated in the National Young Environmental Conference at New Delhi.

State level Summer Camp was conducted at Kollimalai in Namakkal

District. Two hundred students were trained in the field of Bharathanatyam, Folk
Dance, Vocal, Drawing, Handicrafts, Sylambam and Yoga.

State Level Craft workshop was conducted for 100 Jawahar Siruvar
Mandrams’ children for ten days at Kumbakonam in clay modeling, doll making,
Batik, Collage work and Candle making.

Winter Camp was organised for 100 children for 10 days at Salem. In this
State Level Camp, training was given for children in Bharathanatyam, Folk
Dance, Vocal Music, Drawing and Craft.

8.6 National Awards

National Bal Bhavan has selected the following children from Tamilnadu
for the National Bal Shree Honour 2009, namely Selvi N.Harini from Chennai for
creative performance, Selvi Diya Naresh Rao for creative innovative science,
Selvi M.Naveena for Creative Writing and Selvi B.Roopadarshini from Tirunelveli
for Creative Innovative Science. These children are going to receive the Award
from Her Excellency the President of India shortly.
Conclusion

Department of Art and Culture acts as a bridge between the past and the
future, synthesizing various art forms of Tamil Nadu and showcases them to the
outsiders. The folk arts of Tamil Nadu have got a revival due to the efforts
taken by this Department. The Department is taking the art forms to the door
steps of the people and make them relish their content and style. This
paradigm shift has helped in transforming the art scenario and made it more
people friendly.
 DEPARTMENT OF ARCHAEOLOGY

Introduction

Archaeology is the scientific study of past cultures and the way people
lived based on the things they left behind. The purpose of archaeology is to
understand how humans in the past interacted with their environment, and
preserve the history for present and future learning. The study of the cultures
includes the examination of the artifacts, objects made, used, or changed by
man. To some extent, it can be defined as our voyage to the past, where we
discover who we were and therefore who we are. In broad scope, archaeology
relies on cross-disciplinary research. Archaeology always relies heavily on the
materials left behind by our forefathers and the human progress is based on
technological development. A number of science and humanities subjects such
as anthropology, history, art history, classics, ethnology, geography, geology,
linguistics, physics, information sciences, chemistry, statistics, palaeo-ecology,
paleontology, palaeo-zoology, palaeo-ethno botany, and palaeo-botany and even
computer science helps in the archaeological studies through recovery,
documentation, analysis and interpretation of material remains, environmental
data, including architecture, sculpture and their features, bio-facts and
landscapes.

Department of Archaeology

The Department of Archaeology was established in 1961 by the

Government of Tamil Nadu to conserve and preserve the ancient monuments in
the State and to conduct excavations at archaeologically and historically
important places. Its activities also included copying, deciphering and publishing
of stone inscriptions, setting up of site museums, chemical preservation of art
objects, documenting them with photographs and registration of antiquities. A
library exclusively for scholars is functioning.

Conservation

So far 85 ancient and historical monuments including religious and secular

buildings have been declared as protected monuments by the State Government.
Under the Twelfth Finance Commission Grants (2006 – 2010), a sum of Rs.7.80
crores was allotted for structural conservation of 40 monuments. Rs.3.00 crores
was especially sanctioned for the conservation of Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace at
Madurai.

1) Conservation works to Thirumalai

Nayakkar Mahal, Madurai - 300.00 Lakhs
2) Trilokyanatha Jeena
Swamy Temple,Thiruparuthikundram,
Kancheepuram District - 9.00 Lakhs
3) Sivankoil, Ulagapuram,
Villupuram District - 7.40 Lakhs
4) Chinnayankulam, Chinnayampet,
Thiruvannamalai District - 3.00 Lakhs

5) Thadagapureeswararkoil, Madam,
Thiruvannamalai District - 88.60 Lakhs
6) Sivankoil, Alagiyamanavalam,
Thiruchirappalli District - 7.95 Lakhs

7) Thirumalai Nayakkar Mandapam,

Valaiyapatti, Madurai District - 25.00 Lakhs

8) Poolavudaiyar Inscriptions,
Seevalaperi, Tirunelveli District - 2.65 Lakhs
9) Sivankoil, Kandamangalam,
Villupuram District - 22.50 Lakhs
10) Visaleeswarar temple, Vilakkanampoondi,
Thiruvallur District - 9.25 Lakhs
11) Jain beds and inscriptions,
Velayuthampalayam, Karur District - 5.00 Lakhs
12) Vishnukoil, Ulagapuram,
Villupuram District - 5.00 Lakhs
13) Sivankoil, Kooram,
Kancheepuram District - 1.00 Lakhs

14) Chokkeeswarar Temple,

Kancheepuram District - 2.00 Lakhs
15) Vitreous enamel protection notice
board for 22 Nos - 1.48 Lakhs
16) Poondi Arugar Koil, Erumpedu,
Arani Taluk, Vellore District - 15.00 Lakhs

17) Sivan Koil, Ayyapatti, Melur Taluk,

Madurai District - 16.00 Lakhs
18) Vazhipokker Mandapam, Thangi,
Walajapet Taluk,
Kancheepuram District - 6.25 Lakhs
19) Sadayar Koil, Tiruchinampoondi,
Tirukattupalli Taluk,Thanjavur District - 13.05 Lakhs
20) Delennoy Tombs & Udayagiri Fort,
Puliyur Kurichi,Kalkulam Taluk,
Kanniyakumari District - 90.00 Lakhs
21) Sapthamathirika Sculptures, Perunkanchi,
Tirutani Taluk, Vellore District - 1.00 Lakh
22) Twin temple, Keelaiyur,
Ariyalur Taluk & District - 16.00 Lakhs
23) Agastheeswarar Koil, Perungudi,
Thiruchirappalli Taluk & District - 3.00 Lakhs
24) Tirumoolanathar Temple, Perangiyur,
Ulundurpet Taluk,
Villupuram District - 8.40 Lakhs
25) Swasthic well, Tiruvellarai,
Thiruchirappalli Taluk & District - 2.50 Lakhs
26) Kattabomman Fort, Kamuthi,
Mudukulathur Taluk,
Ramanathapuram District - 14.60 Lakhs
27) Thiruneelakandam, Pananjadi,
Ambai Taluk, Tirunelveli District - 4.00 Lakhs

28) Old Kattabomman Fort, Panchalam Kurichi,

Ottapidaram Taluk,
Thoothukkudi District - 2.85 Lakhs

29) 44 British Solider’s Tombs, Panchalam Kurichi,

Ottapidaram Taluk,
Thoothukkudi District - 5.90 Lakhs

30) 5 British Soldier’s Tombs, Ottapidaram,

Ottapidaram Taluk,
Thoothukkudi District - 0.90 Lakh
31) Rudrapathi Temple, Keelakadambur,
Kattumannarkoil taluk,
Cuddalore District - 40.00 Lakhs

32) Sri Kailayamudayar Temple, Cholamadevei,

Thiruchirappalli District - 9.00 Lakhs

33) Valeeswarar Temple at Thakkolam,

Arakkonam Taluk,Vellore District - 9.00 Lakhs
34) Providing shed to the Sculptures at
Gangaikondacholapuram,
in Ariyalur District - 3.00 Lakhs
35) Sivan Koil, Gopurapatti, Lalgudi Taluk,
Thiruchirappalli District - 4.80 Lakhs
36) Asthagiriswarar Koil, Varichiyur,
Madurai Taluk & District - 0.95 Lakh

37) Udayagiriswarar Temple, Varichiyur,

Madurai Taluk & District - 1.00 Lakh
38) Murugan Temple, Varichiyur,
Madurai Taluk & District - 1.00 Lakh

39) Chinna Ivarmalai, Thathanayakkanpatti,

Palani Taluk, Dindigul District - 6.60 Lakhs
40) Brahmi Inscription, Karungalakudi,
Melur Taluk, Madurai District - 2.45 Lakhs
 All the works have been completed. Documentation of the monument
works have been carried out under Twelfth Finance Commission Grants and
general details of the declared monuments are being published shortly.

To create awareness among department officials, tourists and general

public about the conservation of monuments, archaeological sites and objects of
heritage value, the Tourism and Culture Department, Government of Tamil Nadu
organized one-day seminar on “Protecting Monuments for Posterity” on
04.08.2009. Thiru K.S. Sripathi, IAS, Chief Secretary to Government of Tamil
Nadu, inaugurated the seminar in which Dr. V. Irai Anbu, IAS, Secretary of
Tourism and Culture Department, participated.

Excavation and Museum

The primary activity of this department is to carry out excavations at

historically important places. So far, excavations have been carried out at 33
historical sites and valuable antiquities have been unearthed. They are being
preserved in 14 archaeological site museums, situated in various districts of the
State. They are at 1) Poondi, 2) Arcot, 3) Dharmapuri, 4) Coimbatore,
5) Karur, 6) Madurai, 7) Courtrallam, 8) Ramanathapuram,
9) Gangaikondacholapuram, 10) Poompuhar, 11) Tranquebar, 12) Thanjavur –
Maratta, 13) Thanjavur – Rajarajan and 14) Tirukkoilur. Under the scheme of
Archaeological Excavation at historical sites, excavation at
Gangaikondacholapuram in Ariyalur District at a cost of Rs.3.00 lakhs in the year
2008 had been completed. Documentation of excavation and publication of
report is nearing completion. During the year 2009-2010, under the scheme of
excavation, preliminary works were commenced at Rajakkal Mangalam,
Nanguneri Taluk, Tirunelveli District at a cost of Rs.2.00 lakhs.

This Department has conducted an Exhibition to create awareness among

students and general public on ‘Preservation of Heritage Monuments’ from
19.11.2009 to 25.11.2009 in connection with World Heritage Week celebration.
Epigraphy

An Institute of Epigraphy is functioning in the Department. It conducts

one year Diploma Course in Epigraphy and Archaeology. Every year eight Post
Graduate students are being enrolled and training is given in Epigraphy and
Archaeology. So far, 200 students have undergone this course. A sum of
Rs.1000/- is paid as stipend to each student every month.

During the year 2004-2005 an “Intensive Campaign” of copying of

inscriptions in Tamil Nadu was launched and is continuing in the districts of
Thiruvannamalai, Salem, Sivagangai and Tirunelveli. It is estimated that there
are more than 25,000 Tamil Inscriptions in Tamil Nadu. At present this
department is in possession of about 23,000 estampages of inscriptions. About
13,638 inscriptions have been deciphered by departmental Epigraphists. The
Government under Part II scheme for the year 2008-2009 have allotted a sum of
Rs.8.60 lakhs for the editing of 10,000 inscriptions by appointing one retired
Epigraphy scholar as an expert and four unemployed students of the Institute of
Epigraphy on three year contract basis. The special scheme is in progress from
the year 2008-2009. Nearly 2,000 inscriptions have been edited and 1,000
inscriptions have been digitalized using the scanner procured last year.

Under the able leadership of Hon’ble Chief Minister, the World Tamil
Classical Language Conference is to be held from 23rd to 27th June 2010 at
Coimbatore. Hon’ble Minister for School Education and Archaeology, Thiru
Thangam Thennarasu heads the exhibition committee. The exhibition related
works are being carried out expeditiously.

The Department of Archaeology and Central Classical Tamil Language

Institute have jointly conducted a workshop on “Epigraphy and Archaeology” from
24.12.2009 to 08.01.2010 for 40 college lecturers and students at a cost of
Rs.3.75 lakhs.
Publication

The well-equipped departmental press is exclusively bringing out books in

Tamil and English on Epigraphy, Monuments, Excavation reports and District
Archaeological Guides. The department has brought out 218 publications so far.
A quarterly journal “Kalvettu” is being printed. So far, 78 issues have been
published.

Photography

The departmental photographers take photographs of various temples,

sculptures, murals and antiquities. Whenever an excavation is undertaken, the
stages of excavation and the details of excavated sites are documented with
adequate photographs. The conservation works of monuments are also
photographed and documented.

Chemical Conservation

The chemical conservation section was established in Chennai and

Madurai to chemically conserve the antiquities brought to light from excavations.
Later its facilities were extended to carry out chemical conservation works in 14
site museums and to co-ordinate with structural conservation section in
maintenance and conservation of 85 monuments. During the year under
Maintenance works and 12th Finance Commission Grants many chemical
conservation works were carried out.

Registration of Antiquities

The Government of India have enacted ‘The Antiquities and Art Treasures
Act 1972’ in order to curb the smuggling of art treasures from India. To enforce
this Act effectively, two Registering Offices one at Chennai and another at
Thiruchirappalli are functioning. The Government of India meets the entire
expenditure of this scheme. This scheme is being implemented in Tamil Nadu
from the year 1974. Till date 52,750 applications have been received for
registration and 42,623 certificates have been issued in Tamil Nadu.

Government Oriental Manuscripts Library and Research Centre

More than 72,000 paper and palm leaf manuscripts dealing with
Mathematics, Astronomy, Siddha, Ayurveda, Unani, Vedas, Agama, Architecture,
Music, Fine Arts, History and many other subjects written in Tamil, Sanskrit,
Marathi, Urdu, Arabic and Persian Languages are being preserved in this Library.
The Library has more than 459 publications in different languages. Under the
National Mission for Manuscripts Programme 1880 Siddha manuscripts in Tamil
language have been digitized.

Under the Central and State shared scheme for the year 2009 - 2010
(Plan) a total amount of Rs.4,66,666/- have been approved for purchasing
computer accessories, related softwares, lamination and digital camera for
Government Oriental Manuscripts Library and Research Centre. In this regard an
amount of Rs.3,50,000/- has been sanctioned by Government of India as its
share and State share will be released shortly.
The Government Oriental Manuscripts Library and Research Centre, now
housed in the Madras University Campus, will be shifted to the new Anna
Centenary Memorial Library complex at Kotturpuram after completion.

New Schemes

During the year 2010-2011, under Part II Schemes, it is proposed to

implement the following eight schemes at a total cost of Rs.67.07 lakhs:-

1) Purchase of twenty six Computers, three Laptops, one Server and three
Photo Copying Machines

2) Purchase of four Numbering Machines, one Hard Pressing Machine and one
Pinning Machine for department Printing Press
 3) Publication of one Epigraphy book, four Monographs by students of
Epigraphy, Reprinting of five important books, four Museum Guide books, five
Archaeological District Guide books and two volumes of Archaeological
Excavation Reports.

4) Purchase of chemicals for Chennai and Madurai laboratories to conserve

antiques and monuments for posterity

5) Purchase of two steel almirahs, thirty nine pedestal fans, two emergency
lights and one hundred and ten chairs
6) Excavation of historical site at Talaichankadu, Tranquebar Taluk of
Nagapattinam District

7) One year scheme for copying of Inscriptions by recruiting trained unemployed

students of Institute of Epigraphy

8) Purchase of three CCTV Cameras, three Ticket Sales Machine, four Invertors
for certain museums and Showcases, Labels & Lighting systems for six site
museums.

Conclusion

Archaeology helps us to understand the pristine glory of our ancestry,

heritage, language and culture so that we may preserve our values and lead a
dignified life. The Department of Archaeology is keen to preserve, portray and
promote our Archaeological sites and treasures for the benefit of posterity.
 DEPARTMENT OF MUSEUMS

Introduction

Museums collect and care for objects of scientific, artistic or historical

importance and make them available for public viewing through exhibits. It may
be permanent or temporary. Early Museums began as the private collections of
wealthy individuals, families or institutions of art and rare or curious natural
objects and artifacts. The International Council of Museums define Museum as
“ permanent institutions in the service of society and of its development, open
to the public, which acquires, conserves, researches, communicates and exhibits
the tangible and intangible heritage of humanity and its environment for the
purposes of education, study and enjoyment”.

Types of Museums

There are many types of museums, from very large collections in major
cities, covering many of the categories below, to very small museums covering
either a particular location in a general way, or a particular subject, such as an
individual notable person. Categories include: fine arts, applied arts, craft,
archaeology, anthropology and ethnology, history, cultural history, military
history, science, technology, children’s museums, natural history, numismatics,
botanical and zoological gardens and philately. Among them Government
Museum, Chennai is a multipurpose museum which includes most of the above
mentioned subjects. Bronzes, pre-historic and proto-historic antiquities,
particularly those of Robert Bruce Foote collections, Adichanallur megalithic
collections and Buddhist, Jain and Hindu sculptures. Of these, the Amaravati
collections with Buddhist sculptures are note worthy. Large collections of rare
zoological and botanical specimens add to the magnificence of Museum and
make it inclusive. The Bronze gallery consisting of very rare collection is a major
attraction for foreign tourists.

Significance

The Chennai Museum and the District Museums act as knowledge

centres for the public and students. Museums are dedicated to make the people
understand and appreciate the natural world, history and the record of artistic,
scientific and technological achievements. They act as educational institutions
and archaeological libraries providing opportunities for learning, understanding,
appreciating and exploring the various facets of our evolution by people of
diverse ages, interests, backgrounds and abilities. Museum is a window through
which visitors view to enrich their knowledge and comprehend our culture.
All categories of students, ranging from primary sections to research scholars
can get academic inputs to update their knowledge from the museums.

Main Activities of Museums

The main activities undertaken are:-

(i) Collection and preservation of objects

(ii) Scientific storage and aesthetic display of objects for visitors

(iii) Undertaking research activities individually or in association with

other institutions, Universities and facilitate the research scholars
and students by giving access to the collections and information

(iv) Documenting the collections, including cataloguing, publishing of

printed catalogues, books, journals, etc.

(v) Conducting periodical exhibitions, lectures and programmes as

part of the educational activities

(vi) Conservation and restoration of objects through its chemical

conservation research laboratory; Promoting awareness on
manuscripts conservation through the Manuscripts
Conservation Centre functioning under the auspices of the
National Manuscripts Mission.
District Museums

There are 20 District Museums located in Pudukottai, Salem, Madurai,

Thiruchirappalli, Vellore, Erode, Cuddalore, Uthagamandalam, Coimbatore,
Kanyakumari, Krishnagiri, Tirunelveli, Sivagangai, Tiruvarur, Palani,
Nagappattinam, Kancheepuram, Ramanathapuram, Karur and Virudhunagar.
Except the one at Pudukkottai, which has been in existence from the time of the
erstwhile Pudukkottai State, all the others are of recent origin. The District
Museums located at Erode, Ramanathapuram and Coimbatore were shifted to
more spacious buildings to suit the convenience of the visitors.

Part II Schemes, 2009-2010

In view of Centenary Celebration of Pudukkottai Museum, Rs.80.00 lakhs

was sanctioned under the Part II Scheme for the year 2009-2010 and the
following works are taken up by Public Works Department, namely, construction
of Audio Visual Room, replacement of Madras terrace roof in the Pudukkottai
gallery and tiled roof of birds gallery into R.C.C., improvement in Skeleton Gallery
and Birds Gallery. All the works are in progress. In order to strengthen the
security of the Pudukkottai Museum installation of Closed Circuit Television
Network is in full swing. After the completion of the above said works the
Centenary Celebration of the Pudukkottai Museum will be held.

Twelfth Finance Commission Works

A sum of Rs.72.00 lakhs has been received for installation of HT

Transformer in Government Museum, Chennai under Twelfth Finance
Commission Grants and the work has been completed. During the financial
year 2009-2010, a sum of Rs.183.00 lakhs was received and the following works
were under taken by Public Works Department:-
 Hindu Sculpture Gallery
(Civil) - Rs.51.00 lakhs
(Electrical ) - Rs. 4.00 lakhs

Jain Gallery
(Civil) - Rs.18.00 lakhs
(Electrical ) - Rs. 2.00 lakhs

Fish Gallery
(Civil) - Rs.13.00 lakhs
(Electrical) - Rs. 2.00 lakhs
Main Building
( Civil) - Rs.70.00 lakhs
( Electrical ) - Rs.23.00 lakhs

Government of India - State Shared Schemes

The total cost of Refurbishment of Amaravati Gallery is Rs.62.50 lakhs of

which the share of Government of India is Rs.50.00 lakhs and the share of State
Government is Rs.12.50 lakhs (75:25). The works are nearing completion.

During 2008-2009 under the shared schemes a sum of Rs.42.50 lakhs has been
received and the following works were completed during the year:-

• Reprint of publications,
• Purchase of books for Museum Library
• Purchase of Security Equipments.

Under the scheme “Promotion and Strengthening of Regional and Local

Museums” a sum of Rs.8.50 crores has been sanctioned and Rs.5.50 crores
received as 1st instalment of Government of India grants. From this grant the
following major works will be taken up:-

• Construction of the Balance portion of Heritage Compound wall

• Renovation of Centenary Exhibition Hall
 • Renovation of Rock & Cave Art Gallery
• Providing facilities to the Differently Abled
• Construction of Audio-Video Room and Conference Hall
• Provision of Generator for the Museum Galleries

Significant outcome

The repairs and refurbishment of the front building and its Anthropology
gallaries were taken up under Part II schemes for the years 2005-2006, 2006-
2007, 2007-2008, and 2008-2009 at a total estimated cost of Rs. 100.00 lakhs.
Building renovation work has been completed. During the 2009-2010 electrical
work both in the galleries and in the showcases are nearing completion.

During the year 2009-10, the following activities have been conducted in
the Government Museum, Chennai:-

‘Earth Day’ was celebrated in the Government Museum, Chennai on 22.04.2009.

An Exhibition and a series of lecture were arranged in the Centenary Exhibition
Hall of the Government Museum, Chennai. It was inaugurated by the Chief
Secretary to Government of Tamil Nadu, Thiru K. S. Sripathi, I.A.S.
‘Museum Day’ was celebrated from 18th April to 2nd May,2009 in the
Government Museum, Chennai.
Refurbished Coins Gallery was inaugurated on 18th May, 2009 in the
Government Museum, Chennai.
‘Care of Museum Objects’ Training was conducted to 11 participants from all
over India from 1.06.2009 to 30.06.2009.
An Exhibition on ‘Molluscs’ was conducted from 23rd to 29th July, 2009 in the
Centenary Exhibition Hall, Government Museum, Chennai.
An Exhibition on ‘Vijayanagara Coins’ was conducted in the Centenary Exhibition
Hall from 6th to 12th August 2009
‘Madras Day’ Exhibition was conducted from 21st August to 27th August, 2009 in
the Centenary Exhibition Hall, Government Museum, Chennai.
International Women’s Association Endowment Lecture on ‘Early Metallurgical
Development in Sri Lanka and Wider Asian Technological Traditions” was
conducted on 10th September 2009 in the Museum Theatre, Government
Museum, Chennai.
A Workshop on ‘Plant Preservation and Modeling’ was conducted from 9th to
11th September, 2009 in the Centenary Exhibition Hall, Government Museum,
Chennai.
An Exhibition on ‘Copper Plates’ was conducted from 24thOctober to 3rd
November, 2009 in the Centenary Exhibition Hall, Government Museum,
Chennai. It was inaugurated by Thiru. Thangam Thennarasu, Hon’ble Minister
for School Education and Archaeology.
Children’s Day was celebrated on 14.11.2009 in a grand manner. Prizes were
distributed to Children for their creative work on painting as well as for oratorical
competition.
Monthly lectures and exhibitions, Children’s Day celebrations were conducted by
the District Museums.
Sri Narayana Guruviah Endowment Lecture: Dr.Sudhakar, Associate Professor,
History Department of the Loyola College, Chennai, delivered lecture on
“Landmark in the Political History of Chennai” held on 06.01.2010 in
Government Museum, Chennai
Rao Bahadur Vemuru Ranganatham Chetty Endowment Lecture was held on
11.01.2010. Ms. Sanchita Balachandran, Conservator and Fulbright Scholar,
USA., delivered Lecture on “Glorious Icons: How Bronze Images
Transformed the Mission of the Government Museum, Chennai”.
An Exhibition on “Snakes” was conducted. Thiru R. Sundararaju, I.F.S.,
Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Chief Wildlife Warden inaugurated the
exhibition held on 02.02.2010 in Government Museum, Chennai.
Exhibition on “STONES” was inaugurated by Dr. Vasudevan, Deputy Director
General of Geological Survey of India (Retd), on 23.02.2010 in Government
Museum, Chennai.
Special Lecture was organised on 02.03.2010. Dr. Edna Carter Southard,
Curator and Professor, Miami University, Oxford, Ohio, USA delivered lecture on
“Museums and Memories - National Museum and Collective Memories”.
 A Special Exhibition on “Silver Punch-Marked Coins from
Vaigainallur Village, Kulithalai Taluk of Karur District” was inaugurated by Thiru
N. Harinarayana, Former Director of Museums on 08.03.2010. A special bulletin
was released by Principal Secretary and Commissioner of Museums on this
occasion.
A Special Exhibition on “Mushrooms” was conducted and lecture on
“Mushrooms” was delivered by Dr. Subramanian, Former Director of Advanced
Studies in Botany, University of Madras on 10.03.2010 in Government Museum,
Chennai.

Part II Schemes 2010-2011

The following schemes at a cost of Rs.27.00 lakhs have been approved by

the State Planning Commission:-

1. Modernisation of Mammal Gallery in Chennai Museum

2. Panelling work in Contemporary Art Gallery in Chennai Museum
3. Construction of Sculpture Garden in the Thiruchirrappalli Museum
4. Development of Garden in Chennai Museum
5. Modernisation of existing Galleries and construction of modern show cases
in Virudhunagar Museum
6. Conservation of South Indian Bronzes
7. New Publications in Chennai Museum.

Virtual Museum

A recent development, with the expansion of the web, is the establishment

of virtual museums. Online initiatives provide physical museums with a web
presence, as well as online curatorial platforms. Government Museum, Chennai
is already having a small virtual tour in its website www.chennaimuseum.org.
Now, it has been planned to develop a full-fledged Virtual Museum of
Government Museum, Chennai in association with Tourism Directorate. It will
facilitate the public to visit the Government Museum in pre-planned manner after
viewing the galleries in the Virtual Museum.

Conclusion

Department of Museums, Government of Tamil Nadu strives to educate

the public on the importance of our heritage and our cultural lineage by providing
rich source of information on various subjects. The student community is
motivated by several efforts to use the opportunity offered by the Department to
enlarge the horizons of their knowledge by periodically paying visits to the
Museums in their vicinity.

M. KARUNANIDHI,
Chief Minister.