In a written reply to Congress member Mohammed Akbar in the state assembly, Public Works Department Minister Brijmohan Agrawal, who holds the tourism and culture portfolios as well, said that 245 artistes performed during the weeklong (Nov 1-7) state foundation anniversary - Rajayotasava 2012- celebrations held in various districts and the government paid over Rs.5 crore to them.

The total expenditure as honorarium to 245 artistes, that included 42 artistes from outside the state, during Rajayotasava 2012 was Rs.5,21,22,500, the minister said.