Lucknow, June 5 -- The Artistes Association of Uttar Pradesh has urged the state government to revive and strengthen cultural infrastructure across the state, citing prolonged closure of auditoriums, rising rental charges and inadequate facilities for performers. The association demanded the early reopening of Sant Gadge Auditorium in Lucknow, saying the venue requires only essential repairs and maintenance. Artistes said its closure has disrupted the activities of theatre groups, cultural organisations and independent performers. Prominent theatre personalities, including Padma Shri awardee Anil Rastogi, Vinod Mishra, Suryamohan Kulshreshtha and others, called for immediate government intervention to improve cultural facilities. Association president Sangam Bahuguna also sought completion of the long-pending Valmiki Auditorium project within six months. Artistes demanded lower rental charges at Lucknow's Rai Umanath Bali Auditorium, modernisation of Kala Mandapam and greater access to auditoriums at Bhartendu Natya Akademi. They warned of a statewide movement if the issues remain unresolved....