Must create flood museums to learn and emerge from adversities

Thiruvananthapuram: Dr Venu said that culture plays a crucial role in the rebuilding of Kerala. He was talking on the topic ‘Does Culture Count? - The role of art and culture in rebuilding Kerala’ at Mathrubhumi International Festival of Letters (MBIFL) held at Kanakakkunnu Palace on Sunday. He commented that the valuable cultural fabric of the state has helped it to manage the devastating flood. Both the tangible and intangible values are important.

Commenting on the topic, Krishnamachari Bose said that the cultural festivals like film festival, Kochi Biennale and Mathrubhumi Literary Festival help people to know the necessity of cherishing our culture. He mentioned that cultural festivals are great endeavours to bring people together. He added that it was not only about art, but also about the human heritage. Mathrubhumi executive editor PI Rajeev quoted how western countries how to integrate cultural values in the process of development. He inquired how it can be executed in Kerala.

Responding to his question, Dr Ravi Raman said that we need insights from artists to rebuild Kerala. He reminded that culture is not about traditions only and rebuilding should focus on creating something new. Dr Venu said that flood museums and flood memorials must be constructed. “Museums are doorways to future. We can relive memories, learn many things and emerge. Adversities must be documented to curate stories of hope, stories of togetherness and give ways to emerge stronger,” he added.

Krishnamachari Bose opined that we should create a cultural policy. “Kerala should become a model for other states. Don’t compromise on aesthetic and investment in the process of rebuilding,” he said. Dr Ravi Raman said that the three main factors which are to be considered while making a rebuilding plan are ecospatial planning, emphasize equalitarian aspect and ethical perspective.