Nagpur: Union minister Nitin Gadkari on Sunday emphasised role of patriotic songs in shaping the personality and values of schoolchildren, saying such songs should be regularly sung in schools so that their message reaches thousands of students.Speaking at prize distribution ceremony of the Khasdar Inter-School Patriotic Song Group Singing Cup, Gadkari said the initiative was aimed at encouraging children to listen to and sing patriotic compositions while developing their personalities.Referring to patriotic compositions by personalities such as Vinayak Damodar Savarkar and Sane Guruji, Gadkari said students could learn important values from their words and messages. He said good values are cultivated through good reading, music and an understanding of the meaning behind words. “Words and music have an effect on our souls,” Gadkari said, stressing that the impact of music and meaningful lyrics is particularly strong during childhood.“During childhood, these things have a huge effect,” he said, adding the Bal Kala Academy had done commendable work in promoting such activities among students.Gadkari also highlighted the importance of practice, skill and dedication in achieving success. He said disciplines such as music, dance and theatre require continuous practice, study and commitment, and help children develop their abilities beyond academics.He urged schools to encourage students to participate in cultural and artistic activities, saying exposure to music and literature at an early age could contribute significantly to their overall development.The group singing competition brought together school students through patriotic music, with the prize distribution recognising their performances and participation. Gadkari said initiatives that combine culture, music and education can help instil a sense of responsibility and positive values among the younger generation.
