Noida gets a facelift

The new Kalindi Kunj bridge and Rajnigandha chowk in Noida have got a new look - a true delight to the eyes. One can see beautiful murals featuring birds and nature all around this area. Building on the objective of transforming cityscapes through public art installations, the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art (KNMA) along with Noida Authority has now expanded its footprint to include these iconic public spaces.

This comes across as an apt facelift of the area that also houses the famous Okhla Bird Sanctuary, that boasts of 300 species of different birds.

The theme, authorities say, is inspired by the fact that the bridge has the famous Okhla Bird Sanctuary on one side and crosses over the river Yamuna.

According to Noida Authority Chairperson Alok Tandon, the idea behind this public art project is to acquaint citizens of Noida with the rich heritage of Indian art. “With all of our public art projects, many in association with KNMA we hope to expose commuters to art in many forms and beautify our city as well. Noida authority is always looking for various ways to improve the city and enhance our infrastructure and facilities,” he says.

The mural is divided into two sections, with one side featuring the sight of dancing birds and the sound of music emanating from a huge gramophone and the other sections displaying serene tableaux of the animal kingdom done in traditional Gond art.

Expanding on the initiative, Kiran Nadar, founder and chairperson of KMNA says, “In this stressful urban living, art can be a soothing influence and a source of inspiration. There isn’t an organic culture in India of visiting museums or art galleries, and most people are often intimidated by modern and contemporary art. KNMA works towards breaking down such barriers so that art is more inclusive and accessible. This exciting collaboration with Noida Authority came together because we are always working towards engaging our audiences in innovative new ways. This is a way for people to interact and experience art every day, and we hope it will foster greater understanding and appreciation, and a new way to engage with India’s rich artistic heritage.”

The mural artwork features humming birds, hornbills, parrots, wild hens, and peacocks done in bright colors. The artwork theme also compliments the vertical garden on a section of the bridge.