The colourful artworks adorning the Maharishi Valmiki International Airport in Ayodhya, as showcased by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on social media, were conceptualized and executed by artists from Vadodara. Rooted in the fine arts tradition of the renowned Baroda School at the MS University's Faculty of Fine Arts, Vadodara, these artists have previously displayed their works at various national and international public spaces. The airport's artistic transformation was led by designer and artist Pravin Waghmare, along with brothers Vivek Sonawane and Anand Sonawane, all alumni of the Faculty of Fine Arts. The project, featuring a blend of traditional Kalamkari and Pattachitra art forms, depicts the life of Lord Rama, incorporating the Hanuman Chalisa and vibrant colors to convey a sense of celebration. Sachin Kaluskar, based in Vadodara, curated the project, highlighting that the team had earlier contributed to art installations at the Dehradun and Surat airports. The artworks were completed in 2022 and were unveiled on the airport walls a few days before the inauguration on December 30. The surprise acknowledgement by PM Modi on social media was unexpected but highly appreciated by the artists involved in the project.
