Asian Paints and St+art Celebrate Indian Defence Forces with Mural
Asian Paints and St+art India unveiled "Dawn of Valour," a mural honoring Indian Defence Forces in Tawang, showcasing their bravery and integrating local culture
Sumit Rawat
Asian Paints and St+art India Foundation have celebrated a decade-long partnership by unveiling “Dawn of Valour,” a project honoring the Indian Defence Forces stationed in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh. Over the past ten years, they have created over 450 murals in nearly 30 cities, making art accessible to all. “Dawn of Valour” is the inaugural project under their new initiative, Asian Paints St+art Frontier, dedicated to recognizing the bravery and dedication of Indian soldiers.
The mural, designed by Reshidev R K, is prominently located on the Army Helipad Wall in Tawang, close to the Tawang War Memorial. It serves as a powerful tribute to the Indian armed forces, depicting the soldiers’ commitment to safeguarding the region amidst harsh Himalayan conditions. The artwork celebrates significant historical figures like Subedar Joginder Singh, Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat, and Major Ralengnao 'Bob' Khathing, whose heroic acts continue to inspire both the military and the local community.
Additionally, the mural highlights the vital contributions of women in the armed forces, showcasing them in various roles. Integrating spiritual icons and traditional motifs, the artwork reflects Tawang's rich cultural heritage, incorporating local elements like yaks and dragons that emphasize the area’s strategic importance.
The mural not only captures the essence of Tawang but also symbolizes the harmonious coexistence of the Army and local residents. Asian Paints’ durable Apex Ultima Protek paint is used, ensuring the mural withstands the region's challenging conditions.
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Alongside the mural, a community project at the Other Ranks Mess aims to create a comforting environment for troops stationed in Tawang. This project features artwork celebrating the heritage of Maharashtra and the valor of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, including cultural symbols like Dhol Drums and Rajmudra, fostering a vibrant atmosphere.
Amit Syngle, Managing Director & CEO of Asian Paints, expressed pride in this initiative, highlighting the joy that art can bring and the importance of honoring soldiers’ sacrifices. Hanif Khureshi, Co-founder of St+art India, emphasized the project's goal of intertwining cultural narratives with military experiences, showcasing the resilience and cultural identity of the region.
Brigadier Vipul Rajput, Commander of the 190 Mountain Brigade, praised the mural for recognizing the diverse backgrounds of Indian soldiers and illustrating their integration into Tawang's cultural landscape. The project exemplifies how art can celebrate and unify the unique bond between the Indian Army and the communities they serve.
