‘A Dent to Pune’s Cultural Identity’: Artists and Residents Resist Proposal to Relocate Kalakar Katta
A strong wave of opposition has erupted among artists and locals following the proposal to relocate Kalakar Katta, a beloved cultural hub on Fergusson College Road in Pune. They argue that the move threatens to undermine the city’s cultural fabric.The controversy began when newly elected BJP corporators Sunil Pande and Manjushree Khardekar, along with other ward members, submitted a letter to Pune Municipal Commissioner Naval Kishore Ram requesting the removal of Kalakar Katta due to traffic congestion concerns. The commissioner visited the site recently to assess the situation.
However, frequent visitors and artists assert that relocating the Katta will cause more harm than good. Anushka Tapshalkar, a resident of Nigdi and regular visitor, said, “Kalakar Katta has been a vital platform for emerging artists, helping them both financially and in establishing their identity. Situated in the heart of Pune on FC Road, it allows passersby to enjoy and engage with art and artists. Moving it would deal a blow to the cultural capital of the state.”
Dilipsingh Vishwakarma of Jagruk Punekar Samiti questioned whether removing Kalakar Katta would truly ease traffic woes. “Pune regularly experiences traffic halts during VIP movements, and rampant encroachment by hawkers and footpath extensions are rarely addressed. How will removing Kalakar Katta solve these deep-rooted issues? Authorities should be wary of politically motivated decisions,” he urged.Ganesh Salunkhe, another frequent visitor, described Kalakar Katta as a rare oasis on busy FC Road offering creativity and tranquility.
“Relocating it would be a loss for both artists and art lovers.”Some artists acknowledged challenges at the site. Senior cartoonist Mukim Tamboli told The Indian Express that he and others stopped visiting due to harassment by locals attempting to monopolize the space. “Despite repeated abuse over two years, I believe Kalakar Katta should remain but with better regulation to manage crowds and traffic.”Senior artist Suresh Lonkar proposed an alternative: “Instead of relocating, the PMC should establish multiple Kalakar Kattas across Pune, giving artists more venues and reducing congestion.”
He also called for regulation to prevent monopolization by certain artists.Portrait artist Amrapali Sabale criticized selective enforcement. “Illegal hawkers continue to encroach on footpaths along FC Road, inconveniencing pedestrians, while artists who uphold Pune’s cultural heritage are sidelined,” she said. Stay tuned to know more only with us.
