Aizawl, Apr 16: Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma on Tuesday inaugurated the UNESCO-recognised World Art Day 2025 celebrations in Aizawl. The event, held at the I&PR Mini Theatre, featured a National Art Exhibition and Seminar on Art, jointly organized by the Government of Mizoram and the International Association of Art (IAA) India.

As Chief Patron of IAA Mizoram, Lalduhoma highlighted the deep connection between art and culture in his address, stating that art reflects identity, heritage, and community values. “Before writing systems, stories were told through drawings. Among the Mizos too, art has long conveyed our beliefs and traditions,” he said.

He appreciated UNESCO’s recognition of art as a medium for peace, healing, and education and called for greater efforts to document Mizoram’s cultural richness through visual media. He also described artists as ambassadors of heritage and urged continued support for the creative community.

The event included speeches by Art & Culture Minister C. Lalsawivunga, I&PR Minister Dr. Vanlalthlana, IAA India President Manaj Saha, Goodwill Ambassador Biblad Roy, and National Convener Lubna Hassan (via video). The programme was chaired by Zodingpuii, IAS, Secretary of the Art & Culture Department and Working Secretary of IAA Mizoram.

World Art Day is observed globally on April 15 to mark the birth anniversary of Leonardo da Vinci. UNESCO officially endorsed the day in 2019. Following the inauguration, the Chief Minister visited the Art Gallery at the I&PR Auditorium. The seminar held in the afternoon focused on the theme “Rich Folk Culture of Resilient Mizos.”