Hyderabad: The State Child Rights Commission conducted a surprise inspection of Jawahar Bal Bhavan, located in Nampally’s Public Gardens, and expressed serious concerns over its deteriorating condition. Once a thriving institution for nurturing young talent, the Bal Bhavan now faces severe neglect due to a lack of students, teachers, and basic facilities.  

Although there are thousands of schools for education, the Commission emphasized that Jawahar Bal Bhavan — the only such institution in the twin cities (Hyderabad and Secunderabad) dedicated to reviving and preserving art forms — must not be subjected to such neglect or discrimination.

A legacy in decline

Established in 1966 by former Prime Ministers Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi, Jawahar Bal Bhavan was envisioned as a hub for children aged 5–16 to receive training in fine arts, Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, music, drawing, and science awareness. Over the years, it has produced renowned artists, including actors Jr. NTR and Tarun, who gained national acclaim after training here.  

However, during the inspection, the Commission found the institution in a dismal state, noted the absence of transportation facilities, a shortage of skilled teachers, and poor maintenance of infrastructure.  

The inspection revealed several critical issues plaguing Jawahar Bal Bhavan, including declining student enrollment due to inadequate facilities and lack of awareness, a severe shortage of trained instructors compromising the quality of training, the absence of transport facilities making it difficult for children to commute, and neglected infrastructure despite having key amenities like a library, a museum, and Indira Hall. These challenges have collectively contributed to the institution's current state of disrepair and underutilisation.

Demands immediate action

The Commission questioned the authorities about the institution’s current state, emphasizing that while Hyderabad has numerous schools, Jawahar Bal Bhavan remains the only one dedicated to preserving traditional arts.  

"The Bal Bhavan was meant to foster creativity and cultural heritage among children. It is unacceptable to let such an institution decay," said Sita Dayakar Reddy.  

The Commission urgently appealed to the Minister for Panchayat Raj and Child Welfare, D. Seethakka, to intervene. The Minister responded positively and directed senior officials and child welfare authorities to submit a detailed report on the current conditions and supervision of the Bal Bhavan.

The team, led by Chairperson Sita Dayakar Reddy along with members Aparna, Vachan Kumar, Chandana, Saritha, and Premalatha Agarwal, inspected the Jawahar Bal Bhavan.