Chandigarh, February 26:The Governor of Punjab and Administrator, UT Chandigarh, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, along with his wife Smt. Anita Kataria, attended the First Chandigarh Sangeet Natak Akademi (CSNA) Award Ceremony today as the Chief Guest.

The Administrator appreciated the work of the Chandigarh Sangeet Natak Akademi since its establishment in 1980. He said that art is the soul of a city and artists are its true cultural ambassadors. The event was not just about giving awards, but about celebrating the cultural spirit and creative talent of society.

Speaking about today’s fast-moving digital world, he said performing arts like music, dance and theatre help build discipline, dedication and emotional understanding. He added that art brings peace of mind, strengthens unity in society and keeps us connected to our cultural roots. The Administrator assured that the Chandigarh Administration fully supports artists and will continue to encourage young talent.

A total of 11 artists and institutions were honoured in the fields of Music, Dance, Theatre, Art Promotion and Lifetime Achievement. Each award included a cash prize of ₹51,000.

Also present on the occasion were Shri Mandip Singh Barar, Secretary Cultural Affairs; Smt. Sukhminder Kaur Barar, Chairperson, Sangeet Natak Akademi (CSNA), Chandigarh; Shri Sorabh Kumar Arora, Director, Cultural Affairs; along with other officials of the Chandigarh Administration.