Blowing the trumpet for pending bills: Artistes demand unpaid wages for performances at government events

Ravi Kumar, an artiste from Amberpet, Hyderabad, has been performing for high-profile officials such as Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. However, despite these appearances, Ravi's wages for a performance two years ago remain unpaid, totaling around ₹30,000. This is just one case among many similar instances across the state.

On Thursday, the State Department of Language & Culture hosted a performance by artists, including trumpet players, dappu beaters, janapadas, and Gussadi performers. However, the event was also a protest demonstration against unpaid wages owed to artists by the State government. The Finance Department has acknowledged the total amount owed at ₹11.91 crore, with the bills already processed and awaiting release.

While the government perceives this as a minor issue, artistes like Ravi feel the delay significantly impacts their livelihoods and traditional art forms.