LuLu Group donates Rs 2 crore to Kochi-Muziris Biennale

The Lulu Group International has donated Rs 2 crore to the fourth edition of the Kochi-Muziris Biennale (KMB), which is scheduled to commence next year-end. 

LuLu Group, owned by NRI businessman Yusuff Ali MA, has forged its association with the KMB with a donation of Rs 50 lakh to the second edition of the Biennale in 2014. Yusuff Ali, who hails from Thrissur and the chairman of Abu Dhabi-headquartered group, also donated Rs 1 crore in 2016 for the third edition of the mega art event. 

LuLu Group director Nishad MA and manager V Peethambaran presented the cheque for Rs 2 crore to Kochi Biennale Foundation (KBF) president Bose Krishnamachari at an event held at Ernakulam Press Club on Tuesday. Also present on the occasion were Lulu Group's commercial manager Sadik Kassim and media co-ordinator NB Swaraj and KBF secretary Riyas Komu. 

"I appeal that everyone should help, support and promote this international event that is happening in our state and bringing so many visitors and accolades for Kerala and for our country," Yusuff Ali said in a message.

Lauding the contribution of the Lulu Group, Krishnamachari said it would definitely give an impetus to the sustainability of India's only biennale that has garnered acclaim from art connoisseurs from across the world and commoners alike. "It is also a testament to the KBF's expertise to hold a front-ranking contemporary art exhibition that has brought huge social and economic benefits for the state," he pointed out. 

Komu, who co-founded the KBF with Krishnamachari and also co-curated the first edition of the Biennale with him, said financial support from the government, industry and the people is a prerequisite for holding an event of the magnitude of a Biennale. He stressed that the KBF tremendously appreciates the gesture of Yusuff Ali, who has emerged as a stellar figure for promoting and patronising art and culture.

(With PTI inputs)

Photo courtesy: Welcome Kerala Magazine