BHU students convey cleanliness message through wall paintings

VARANASI: The authorities of North Eastern Railways (NER) have taken help of fine art students of Banaras Hindu University (BHU) to create paintings on walls of Manduadih station to spread the message of cleanliness and promote cultural heritage.
Talking to TOI on Wednesday, NER divisional railway manager (DRM) SK Kashyap said, "Wall paintings and murals are a common sight at subways, streets and stations in foreign countries.These are also seen at Jaipur railway station and many stations in Bihar. I had a similar plan for the walls of Manduadih station. We intend to promote cleanliness and showcase the beauty and culture of the heritage city through wall paintings."
The DRM said that students pursuing fine arts from faculty of visual arts, BHU had been roped in for the wall paintings that would reflect tales, customs and folklore besides the traditional and cultural heritage of the city. The beautification is not part of any project so no separate funds have been allocated for it. Five girl students and a professor of BHU have volunteered. "We would like to invite local artists interested in displaying their art through paintings of the heritage sites," DRM said, adding that about 20-25 wall panels would be covered.
Some photographs tweeted by the DRM were re-tweeted by the railway minister on his Twitter handle on Tuesday afternoon.
Kashyap said that Buddhist-themed murals have been planned by NER as part of a project at Sarnath railway station, the details of which are yet to be worked. "Buddhist murals have been planned at Sarnath railway station that would showcase its connection with Lord Buddha and its significance," he said.
Meanwhile, the wall paintings at Manduadih station won't be the first because a section of the wall opposite the ticket counter is adorned with paintings reflecting historical ghats, temples and glimpses of Varanasi's culture. Also at the VIP entry of the railway station, an attractive life-size 3D portrait depicts Kashi as an abode of Lord Shiva with its historic ghats and the city's connection with Lord Buddha.