Khattar govt appoints Modi ‘fan’ as adviser to cultural body

Vishal Joshi

Tribune News Service

Kurukshetra, February 11

In an apparent move to “adjust’ a favourite “artiste”, the Manohar Lal Khattar government yesterday appointed Jai Bhagwan alias Rocky Mittal as the chief adviser of Multi-Art Cultural Centre (MACC) here.

However, Rocky said he would not accept any offer till it promises him a position and entitles a beacon-fitted vehicle.

A resident of Model Town in Kaithal, Rocky is known for composing and singing songs only in favour of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

“It is a sheer disrespect of my talent and I would not accept an offer to work at the local level. I sang effortlessly for Modi at several political rallies and did every bit to popularise him. Post of an adviser is unacceptable, but I may consider something at state level,” Rocky told The Tribune.

He said he had not received any official communication for a MACC assignment.

MACC, the prestigious cultural centre of Haryana, was built with the Central government grant to promote cultural activities in the state. Besides staging cultural shows by established artistes, MACC has offered opportunities to budding talents also.

However, Rocky’s appointment has led to criticism of the BJP, with many condemning opening of cultural bodies for “non-serious” individuals.

The department of culture that appointed Rocky is held by Khattar.

Rocky claimed he had spent nearly 60 lakh from his pocket for cutting albums for the BJP’s prime ministerial candidate in the parliamentary elections.

“I penned and sang nearly 40 songs in praise of Modi and did not accept a single penny from anyone. I invested my earnings for Modi’s promotion, but the Khattar government has demeaned my talent by offering a menial job. Giving an important assignment at least at the state level could justify what I did for the party,” said the 40-year-old.

Rocky’s Facebook page is loaded with photographs with Modi, yoga guru Ramdev and Agriculture Minister OP Dhankar.

Modi had also invited Rocky to his New Delhi residence to appreciate his efforts at BJP’s rallies in several states. He was seen with Modi at several election rallies.

“I have no formal training in music, but it is my passion. I have recorded hundreds of albums. I had started a music company, but closed it for the BJP. Now I feel maltreated by the Khattar government,” he said.