Tawang, located in the state of Arunachal Pradesh amidst the Eastern Himalayas, is a painter's dream, where lush green valleys transition into a stark, icy canvas as one ascends towards the town. This enchanting land, guarded by snow-kissed mountains, is adorned with Buddhist monasteries and prayer flags that flutter in the wind. Here, tranquil lakes mirror the sky, while cascading waterfalls provide a soothing melody. The warm hospitality of the Monpa people, coupled with the region's rich artistic heritage, makes Tawang a haven for both the soul and the senses.
The town is also a base for the Indian Defence forces stationed there for border security. Celebrating the harmonious co-existence of the army with the locals, Asian Paints in partnership with the St+art India Foundation recently unveiled a mural close to the Tawang War Memorial. ‘Dawn of Valour’, created by homegrown artist Reshidev RK, features art devoted to honouring the bravery and dedication of the Indian Defence Forces. The mural not only spotlights the soldiers' commitment to protecting the land amidst the harsh Himalayan terrain and extreme weather conditions but also paints a picture of the stories that make up the fabric of Tawang.
Through portraits, it honours the bravery of iconic military figures Subedar Joginder Singh, Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat, and Major Ralengnao 'Bob' Khathing, whose heroic acts during historic conflicts inspire both the military and the local community. It also highlights the invaluable contributions of women in the armed forces. The mural is filled with little visual cues celebrating the region's history and culture. Traditional motifs like dragons and yaks, symbolic of the region's inhabitants, further emphasize its cultural significance. This strategic placement ensures every visitor experiences the true essence of Tawang.
Apart from the mural, a community project at the OR (Other Ranks) Mess for the troops stationed at Tawang brings a glimpse of Maharashtra to the town. Featuring wall art with iconic elements such as Dhol Drums, Diyas, Tutari, and Rajmudra, and portraying cultural festivities like Pola Festival and Fugdi, it evokes a sense of pride and serves as a reminder of home for the men and women stationed there.
‘Dawn of Valour’ marks a significant milestone in the decade-long partnership between Asian Paints and St+art India. It's another chapter in this series of murals that use the power of public art for storytelling. This particular mural is also a layered narrative that speaks to resilience, duty, and cultural identity, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for how diverse communities in India engage with each other.
You can find out more about the mural and see it for yourself below.
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