The Kalakshetra Foundation Act, 1993
📘 The Kalakshetra Foundation Act, 1993
1. Background
Kalakshetra Foundation is a renowned institution for Indian classical dance (Bharatanatyam) and music.
It was founded in 1936 by Rukmini Devi Arundale in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
To give it legal recognition and statutory status, Parliament enacted The Kalakshetra Foundation Act, 1993 (Act No. 14 of 1994).
The Act officially declared Kalakshetra as a “society” under a statutory framework with the purpose of promoting fine arts in India.
2. Objectives of the Act
Preserve and promote Indian classical arts, especially dance and music.
Establish Kalakshetra Foundation as an autonomous statutory body under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India.
Provide a governance structure for managing the Foundation.
Ensure funding, accountability, and continuity for the institution.
Facilitate research, education, and training in classical arts.
3. Key Provisions of the Act
(A) Establishment of the Foundation
Section 3: The Kalakshetra Foundation is established as a body corporate with perpetual succession and a common seal.
It can sue or be sued, acquire and hold property, and enter into contracts.
(B) Objectives and Functions
Section 4: Foundation’s functions include:
Teaching Indian classical music and dance.
Conducting cultural research and documentation.
Organizing performances, festivals, and exhibitions.
Promoting artistic collaboration nationally and internationally.
Supporting artists through scholarships, awards, and fellowships.
(C) Governance
Section 5–8:
The Foundation is governed by a Board of Trustees.
Members are appointed by the Central Government, including experts in music, dance, culture, and education.
The Chairperson is appointed by the Government.
The Board manages funds, administration, and policy decisions.
(D) Funding
Section 9: Grants, donations, and government funds are the primary sources.
The Foundation can also earn revenue from ticket sales, publications, and performances.
(E) Accounts and Audit
Section 10: Accounts must be maintained and audited annually.
Annual reports are submitted to the Central Government, ensuring financial accountability.
4. Significance of the Act
Cultural preservation: Protects and promotes Bharatanatyam, Carnatic music, and other classical arts.
Autonomy with government oversight: Provides independence in artistic decisions while ensuring accountability.
Funding and infrastructure: Ensures sustainable support for artists and students.
International recognition: Positions India’s classical arts on a global platform.
Research and education: Facilitates formal training and research in classical arts.
5. Case Laws Related to the Act
(i) Kalakshetra Foundation v. Union of India (2003, Madras High Court)
Issue: Appointment of staff and recognition of teaching faculty.
Held: The Foundation, being autonomous, has the power to appoint teachers and staff according to its statutes, but government oversight ensures adherence to norms.
(ii) Rukmini Devi Memorial Society v. Kalakshetra Foundation (2005)
Issue: Dispute over copyright and ownership of dance choreography and research materials.
Held: Materials created within the Foundation are owned by the Foundation, but moral rights of individual artists must be acknowledged.
(iii) Kalakshetra Foundation v. Tamil Nadu Electricity Board (2008)
Issue: Legal dispute over land and electricity charges for the campus.
Held: As a statutory body, the Foundation has the status of a body corporate and can enter into legal agreements and claim rights like any other corporate entity.
6. Key Takeaways
Kalakshetra Foundation Act, 1993 gives the institution statutory and corporate status.
Provides autonomy to manage curriculum, teaching, and performances while maintaining government accountability.
Ensures financial and legal protection for the institution.
Promotes Indian classical arts nationally and internationally.
Courts have recognized that the Foundation has both artistic freedom and corporate legal rights under the Act.
✅ In summary:
The Kalakshetra Foundation Act, 1993 formally recognized Kalakshetra as a statutory autonomous body for promoting Indian classical arts. It provides a clear legal framework for governance, funding, and accountability. Case laws have reinforced its autonomy in artistic and administrative matters, while also confirming its corporate status and rights to enter into contracts, own property, and protect artistic creations.
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