Scrap art installation adding beauty to Kashi crossings

Varanasi: An innovative beautification initiative is underway in the city through collaborative efforts of Varanasi development authority, Banaras locomotive works, ministry of railways, and ministry of culture.A total of 62 unique sculptures are being installed at various prominent locations, of which, 35 are already in place, while 27 sculptures will soon be installed.Regarding the project, VDA vice chairman Pulkit Garg said crafted from scrap materials, the sculptures will not only convey message of environment conservation but also demonstrate how items considered useless can be transformed into something creative and beautiful. The sculptures embody themes such as women's empowerment, yoga, sports, millets, handicrafts, environmental protection and cultural heritage. Each piece reflects cultural, historical, or spiritual significance of its location, allowing tourists to understand the area's uniqueness without a guide. Garg said artwork made of stone, fibre and metal was being installed at 62 sites in the city as part of this plan. Sculptures will soon be placed at 27 more locations. Additionally, aspects like landscaping, greenery and night lighting are being considered for beautification.Transformative art of wooden toy installation has been placed on the airport premises along with a peacock. Artwork depicting Kathak dance and Tejas fighter jet are at the airport crossing, boxing, cricket and javelin throw at Harhua crossing, Bodhi tree at Sandaha Atal Chowk, agni stambh asana at Bhojubir, ghats at Circuit House, sunflowers at VDA premises, carpet weaver at Chowkaghat, abhikalpana on NIFT campus, Rudraksha with Hand at Rudraksha Convention Center, lion at Ring Road (Azamgarh) crossing, mother and child at district women's hospital, fish, dhammachakrat, tree for eternal life and guru shishya tradition at Sarnath, church near Lal Girja, three art models on BHU campus, one at Sant Ravidas Sampark Park, cricketer at Ring Road (Varanasi-Prayagraj junction), para-olympics at Sigra Stadium, yoga with folded hands at BR Ambedkar Chauraha, bull fighting at Manduadih Road, prabhat vachan at Sampurnanand Sanskrit University, carpet makers at trade facility centre and a sitting Nandi (bull) at Maidagin crossing.The initiative not only enhanced beauty of Varanasi but also highlighted the city's social and cultural values, said Garg, adding that by transforming scrap into art, these sculptures inspire the reuse of materials, marking a significant step towards sustainable development.