By: Addie Chiphang
Ukhrul, Dec 20:
Ukhrul, the picturesque hill station in Northeast India, has always been celebrated for its natural beauty and serene environment. However, there’s more to this quaint town than meets the eye. Over the years, Ukhrul has transformed into an outdoor art gallery, where mundane walls are reborn as canvases showcasing vibrant and intricate indigenous culture. This street art movement, spearheaded by local artists, is bringing a splash of color and cultural revival to the town.
One of the prominent contributors to this transformation is Eno. Sorei Keishing, the founder of ‘Tantad Art,’ a celebrated art village. Leading a dedicated team of ten artists, Sorei and his group have recently focused on beautifying the walls surrounding Ukhrul’s Mini Secretariat complex. Their mission? To turn lifeless, neglected walls into living narratives that reflect the soul of the Tangkhul Naga culture.
“It’s not merely about filling empty spaces,” says Sorei. “It’s about infusing personality, creating focal points, and adding texture and dimension to walls. Wall art plays a crucial role in transforming society through art therapy.”
Turning Walls into Stories
For years, Ukhrul’s walls, like many across India, have been overlooked—plain, dirt-streaked, or covered with posters and graffiti. But for Sorei and his team, these walls are opportunities waiting to be realized. Their latest endeavor, a series of wall paintings with pop art-inspired depictions of indigenous culture, aims to bridge the gap between the past and the present.
“There is something inherently pop art about depicting our culture,” Sorei explains. “It’s a fusion of traditional stories and contemporary aesthetics, meant to revive and preserve our heritage while appealing to younger generations. Through this, we hope to remind people of our roots and create a sense of pride in our traditions.”
The team’s work incorporates motifs and designs inspired by Tangkhul folklore, traditional attire, and daily life. These paintings are not merely decorative; they carry messages about the importance of preserving cultural identity in a rapidly modernizing world.
Art as a Tool for Transformation
Art has always been a powerful medium to inspire change, and Ukhrul’s wall art movement is no exception. According to Sorei, art has the potential to transform the way people think and perceive their surroundings.
“We treat walls as plates and art as food for thought,” he shares. “It’s not just about showcasing beauty but presenting ideas that spark reflection and discussion. Through our work, we want to remind people of the values and wisdom of our forefathers while offering a modern twist to appeal to today’s audience.”
The vibrant murals have already caught the attention of locals and visitors alike. Roadsides, public buildings, and even toilets in the town have been revitalized with these eye-catching designs. The result is a Ukhrul that feels alive, dynamic, and deeply connected to its roots.
A Christmas Gift to Ukhrul
This latest series of wall art coincides with the festive season, making it a timely gift to the people of Ukhrul. Sorei’s team worked tirelessly to complete the project within a short span, with support from the Deputy Commissioner of Ukhrul, Enoli Kangoo Zuringla. Their efforts have added a festive touch to the town, with vibrant reds, greens, and other hues bringing warmth and cheer to public spaces.
The art reflects the spirit of Christmas while subtly embracing modern design trends. “We’ve blended traditional festive colors with contemporary palettes to create a unique atmosphere,” explains Kaping one of Sorei’s team members.
The Future of Art in Ukhrul
Sorei envisions Ukhrul as a future hub for art and culture. “Our goal is to make Ukhrul a recognized art hub, a place where people can come to experience the beauty and depth of Tangkhul Naga culture,” he says.
The team plans to expand their work to more locations in the town and even collaborate with other artists to create a larger impact. Through their efforts, they hope to inspire a new generation of artists and art enthusiasts to take pride in their heritage and contribute to its preservation.
A Lasting Impression
As Ukhrul’s streets come alive with vibrant hues and cultural motifs, it’s clear that this is more than just an art project—it’s a movement. A movement that celebrates tradition, inspires creativity, and fosters a sense of community pride.
For visitors to Ukhrul, the town is now more than a picturesque hill station; it’s a living, breathing exhibition of indigenous culture and contemporary art. For locals, it’s a reminder of the beauty and richness of their heritage, one wall at a time.
Through the tireless efforts of Sorei Keishing and his team, Ukhrul is proving that even the most ordinary walls can tell extraordinary stories.
