Preserving the cultural soul of the city.

Hanoi is the heart of the country, a place where the depth of history, identity, and national essence converge. However, it's easy to see that this city, rich in cultural traditions, lacks truly vibrant cultural spaces. Many theaters and performance venues are closed or operating at a reduced capacity. Numerous cultural centers and art clubs are deserted and lack appeal. Some are in prolonged disrepair, others are misused, encroached upon, or even commercialized.

Speaking at the first meeting following the establishment of the Steering Committee for the Development of Hanoi's Culture, Politburo member and Hanoi Party Secretary Tran Duc Thang frankly acknowledged that many shortcomings and limitations still exist in the cultural sector, especially in the investment, management, and exploitation of cultural institutions, which are not commensurate with the status of Hanoi as a thousand-year-old capital. Hanoi Party Secretary Tran Duc Thang demanded fundamental solutions to restore and develop stages, theaters, art troupes, and cultural spaces; and resolutely prevented cultural facilities from being encroached upon, misused, or remaining in a state of prolonged disrepair.

In particular, the existing limitations are not only found in deserted, dimly lit theaters or dusty seats, but more worryingly, in the gradual decline of cultural and artistic appreciation habits within the community. As public cultural spaces disappear or become lackluster, people lose places to meet, socialize, access art, and nurture their spiritual lives.

On the other hand, the pressures of urbanization and short-term economic interests have put many cultural institutions at risk of shrinking space. It's not difficult to find prime locations that were once theaters, cinemas, or community centers but are now operating sluggishly and attracting few participants. Some, despite being well-built, suffer from inefficient management and exploitation. All of this reflects a reality: cultural development is not just about building more structures, but more importantly, about revitalizing cultural spaces.

A city may experience rapid development in infrastructure, economy, and real estate, but it will be difficult to become a civilized and livable city if it lacks cultural depth. Ultimately, cultural institutions are where urban memories are preserved, communities are connected, and the identity of a city is formed. Therefore, the request by City Party Secretary Tran Duc Thang for fundamental solutions to restore and develop cultural institutions is timely and correct.

We cannot continue with scattered, superficial investments or cultural facilities existing merely for the sake of appearances. Cultural institutions that want to attract people must have truly engaging content that is relevant to modern life. Hanoi needs to boldly innovate its operating methods, apply technology, and organize more art, film, exhibition, and creative exchange programs that are close to the public, especially young people. Public cultural spaces need to become places people want to visit, want to experience, and want to return to.

Furthermore, there needs to be a strict mechanism to protect land allocated for cultural purposes. The resolute stance against encroachment and misuse of cultural facilities, as demanded by the City Party Committee leadership, sends a clear message: Culture must be given its proper place in the capital's development strategy. If spaces dedicated to art and community activities continue to be narrowed for short-term gains, what is lost is not only land area, but also the soul of the city and the depth of Hanoi's cultural heritage.

Hanoi is gradually establishing itself as a creative city and a major cultural center of the region. To achieve this, one of the prerequisites is to revitalize cultural institutions and restore the true value of the spiritual life of the capital's residents.

Culture cannot be formed overnight, but it can quickly fade away if it is taken lightly. Therefore, the frank and decisive directives of the City Party Secretary are not only a warning about current shortcomings, but also a political task set for all levels and sectors, from the city to the grassroots.

Source: https://hanoimoi.vn/giu-hon-van-hoa-cho-do-thi-870606.html