Bhubaneswar beautification - Tribal arts take centre stage!

The city of Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha, has transformed its walls into vivid storytellers, capturing the attention of both residents and visitors alike. Adorning these urban canvases are murals that recall the challenging days of the coronavirus pandemic and celebrate the excitement of the Hockey World Cup.

These murals are not just artistic expressions but narrations of Odisha’s rich cultural tapestry. They depict the state's diverse traditions, paying homage to its eminent personalities. Presently, the walls are alive with depictions of indigenous heritage, showcasing the vibrant cultural milieu of Odisha.

A New Era Dawns in Odisha Leadership

Odisha is witnessing a transformation after 24 years under the previous government. Mohan Charan Majhi, an Odia Adivasi leader, has taken the helm as Chief Minister, with a refreshing vision for the state. This shift in leadership is palpable, especially in the capital city, Bhubaneswar, which is experiencing a cultural renaissance.

The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation has embarked on an ambitious beautification project, embellishing Bhubaneswar's walls with vibrant tribal art. However, this initiative has sparked controversy as it moves away from employing local artists, opting instead for more mechanised stencil and spray techniques. This decision has ignited a debate on the importance of rekindling the warmth of Odia Asmita, a sentiment deeply embedded in the traditional artistry of the region.

Threat to Odia ‘Asmita’ 

Ahead of the 2024 elections, Odisha's ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) is under fire from opposition parties for allegedly neglecting Odia identity. Accusations are mounting over the influence of non-Odia officials in the state, further fuelled by recent blunders involving prominent Odia cultural figures. Opposition leaders have criticised the state government for misidentifying the revered poet Gangadhar Meher as 'Kantha Kabi' rather than his correct title 'Kanta Kabi' at Odia language conferences. Such inaccuracies have sparked controversy and underscored regional pride.
Opposition parties claim the administration has failed to uphold Odia identity and values, branding it a lapse on the government’s part.
City beautification efforts in Odisha have not been without errors. Mistakes range from misnaming Dr. Harekrushna Mahatab as 'Dr. Harekrushna Mahanti' to inappropriate artwork related to COVID-19 awareness, and errors in referencing the first Odia film, 'Sita Bibaha'. The public response has been strong, prompting critiques from parties like Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Congress.
BJP leaders stated, 'BJD is only interested in electoral politics and doesn't give due respect to our eminent Odia personalities, while non-Odia rule prevails.' The government has responded to these direct criticisms.

Celebrating Odia culture through murals

The focus is now shifting towards how the current administration is addressing these oversight issues. In Bhubaneswar, measures are in place to ensure accurate representation through stencilling and spray painting, reflecting a more respectful depiction of tribal customs.

Since the new government, led by Mohan Majhi of the BJP, took office five months ago, Odisha has hosted major national events, including the DGP-IGP conference and Navy Day celebrations. The upcoming Pravasi Bharatiya Divas conference in Bhubaneswar, slated for 8-10 January, remains a key event in the state's preparations.

The administration's dedication to city beautification is clear as the capital’s walls are transformed to highlight traditional tribal art, replacing earlier murals. This initiative not only addresses previous errors but also celebrates Odia culture and provides opportunities for young artists.

Facilitating employment to artisans 

The city of Bhubaneswar saw a burst of artistic creativity as it hosted the 2022 Hockey World Cup under the leadership of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. The Odisha Lalit Kala Akademi enabled over 1,500 artists to display their talents by transforming approximately 28 zones with vibrant artwork that breathed life into the city's walls, overbridges, and fences.

In a bid to not only beautify urban spaces but also invoke social awareness, several murals painted during this period vividly depicted the harsh impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. These artworks served as a poignant reminder and educational tool for the public, while also capturing the essence of

Odisha's rich cultural heritage and traditions.

Across the state, from Cuttack to Koraput and Bhubaneswar to Rourkela, young artists participated in these beautification efforts, showcasing exceptional artistic prowess. This initiative also provided employment opportunities for numerous artists, who enthusiastically contributed to the aesthetic transformation of various cities.

By Dilip Sabat