Mysuru: Maintaining that folk arts, literature and plays have a key role in the saving and sustenance of our rich culture, heritage and traditions for generations to come, KEA Chairman Mirle Srinivas Gowda said that children should be educated in this regard.

He was speaking at the just concluded State-level Makkala Natakotsava (Children’s Play  Festival) and Janapada Utsava (Folk Festival) organised by Sanchalana Mysuru, in association with the Directorate of Kannada and Culture, Bengaluru, at Mini Theatre in Kalamandira premises here.

Pointing out that the minds of children will grow with sharing of ideas and knowledge with fellow children, Srinivas Gowda opined that parents must encourage their wards in this regard.

Students of Nypunya School of Excellence rendered folk songs while students of JSS Public School, Siddarthanagar, staged ‘Ogatina Rani’ play and other students performed  ‘Hasiru Habbali’ dance.

Children from different schools took part in the Fest. Global Educational Institutions President P. Jayachandra Raju, senior theatre artiste Indira Nair, actor Manvith and others were present.