Kerala, since time immemorial has been renowned for the richness and variety of its art and culture. Nowhere in the world can one find such spectacular and diverse art forms be it classical, contemporary or folk. It is thus no wonder that the UNESCO has declared Kutiyattam, the 2000-year old Sanskrit theatre and 'Mudiyettu', the folk ritual artform as the oldest living intangible art traditions in the world.
In consonance with this rich tradition, the Government has introduced an innovative scheme, the Diamond Jubilee Fellowship Program, that seeks to inspire and encourage the younger generation to appreciate and pursue art. The young educated youths who are to be selected as Fellowship Artists will be provided with a monthly payment of Rs. 10,000/- by the Department of Culture for a period of two years. The local self government institutions too will supplement by granting additional fellowship money and by extending local hospitality to the artists.
The Fellowship Artists will be deployed across the State under the Municipal Corporations, Municipalities and Block Panchayats. The Department of Culture has already selected 440 artists and they have been given Field Study assignments. The 400 plus artists have been sent for a 4-day training prior to their final deployment.
The Department is now inviting applications from qualified youths for selection as Diamond Jubilee Fellowship Artists. Those who have passed Certificate / Diploma / Degree courses in recognized institutions shall be eligible for selection as Artists in classical, theatre and fine arts categories. Those of folklore art forms are required only to have proficiency acquired under Gurukula system of learning. The candidate except of folklore category should be below the age of 35 years as on 01.01.2021. Those of folklore have 5 years' age relaxation and they should not have completed 40 years of age as on 01.01.2021.
Those interested are required to submit their applications online together with copies of all relevant documents.
The date for receiving applications of fellowships is extended to 2021 May 19.