Gone are those days when the walls of Palayam bus stand were made filthy by the rugged posters, dirt and spit. Presently, the walls have been transformed into a canvas for the volunteers of ‘Compassionate Kozhikode’, the unique art project of Kozhikode District Administration. The hard work and sweat of the past few months have finally paid off. The walls are now adorned with astounding paintings, done by more than 100 volunteers. The initiative was part of the project Manichitrathoonu organised by the group of like-minded people under the leadership of Kozhikode District Collector N. Prasanth. Their motive is to transform the dingy area and ugly walls of the district into beautiful city art.
The combined efforts of the volunteers during Sundays and holidays has resulted in these marvellous pieces of work. It portrays the serene beauty of innocence and playfulness of a bygone time, evoking nostalgia and taking viewers down the memory lane of their childhood filled with joy, fun and love. “This theme was followed intentionally. As commuters wait for the buses, we want them to get nostalgic. It will also remind them of their kids and restrain them from dirtying it,” says Prasanth. The social media has also played a crucial role in bringing people together to make the project a grand success. Children and adults alike produced the paintings. After work, the volunteers feasted on biriyani sponsored by Operation Sulaimani members. Jameela, an old woman who resides in the area, watched over the maintenance of the paintings and also helped in removing the posters.
“I could witness the transformation of the walls. I saw everyone work enthusiastically to paint the walls with such excellent pieces. The feel is nostalgic. We just hope no one would ever spoil the beauty,” says Jayaprakash, a book vendor on the bus stand who has been there for the past twenty years.
