"The state government is serious about protecting Marathi theatre and art and has been taking various steps for it. It has decided to give Rs 5 lakh to each district to promote young artists," Devtale said here last night at the 'Sapatarangh' cultural festival organised by the state cultural affairs ministry.
He also urged social organisations to help the state government in its efforts to protect, promote and preserve Marathi art, theatre and culture.
"Government alone cannot do this, therefore, social and cultural organisations should come forward and give it a helping hand. The state government is ready to give them financial assistance," the minister said.
The state government has increased the award sum in various cases in the recent past and is also trying to give opportunities to budding artists to showcase their talent, he said.
As a part of the move, the famous Kalaghoda festival of Mumbai has been extended to Thane and Navi Mumbai, he said.
The government was also working towards keeping musical plays and dramas from rural folk alive and popular among people, he said.
On the occasion, two senior stage artists of yesteryears - Arvind Pilgaonkar and Atmaram Bende - were awarded Rs 5 lakh cash for their lifetime contribution to Marathi theatre.