Delhi's roundabouts to get a cultural makeover

New Delhi: In a bid to promote art and culture in the city, the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has decided to use roundabouts as a centre for arts and cultural activities.

As per the plan, the NDMC will set up ‘Happy Zones’ across Lutyens’ zone and in several gardens and parks.

According to a senior NDMC official, a ‘happy zone’ is a designated area where people from all walks of like can witness cultural activities.

The roundabout at Mandi House will be the first such ‘Happy Zone’.

Happy Zones will also be set up in Nehru Park, Talkatora Garden, Central Park in Connaught Place, Rajpath Lawn, Children’s Park at India Gate, Palika Parking area and Palika Bazaar.

A senior official of the NDMC told this newspaper that the initiative will also provide a platform to aspiring artists to exhibit their talent.

 “Through this, the NDMC will promote New Delhi area as arts and cultural hub. We have amphitheatre at Talkatora Garden and a stage at Charkha Park, and also an open theatre at Central Park. The idea is to provide some recreational activities for people who come out from their office in the evening. This kind of initiative is prevalent abroad,” he said.

For hosting regular cultural programme, the NDMC will be approaching state governments, embassies and foreign missions, armed forces, Sahitya Academi, Lalit Kala Academi, National School of Drama (NSD), ICCR, and cultural groups.

“We are approaching several institutions and groups to host regular cultural evening at these sites called ‘Happy Zones’. Special cultural programme will be organised on Republic Day and Independence Day,” he said.