Bhubaneswar: Visitors to Odisha will be greeted by artworks depicting the state's cultural heritage and tourism potential when they land with Biju Patnaik International Airport authorities planning to make its domestic terminal more attractive.
The new artworks will depict local tastes, architecture, places of interest, history and heritage and will involve local artists. The art would inform visitors about Odisha's culture, traditions and cuisine.
Airport director Suresh Chandra Hota said the Airports Authority of India had issued an expression of interest to select artists for the job.
"There are already artworks depicting the lifestyle and traditions of Odisha. The new ones will promote places of tourist interest," said Hota.
There will also be artwork depicting the history and traditions of countries and states that Odisha had ties cultural or financial with. According to plans, artwork on Odisha will take up 70 per cent space followed by 20 per cent for other states and 10 per cent for international locations.
Installations and sculptures produced by local artists and depicting the local flavour, paintings and murals will be put up at vantage points.
The airport premises will also be utilised to showcase traditional and folk festivals such as rath yatra, and raja festival, among others. Local artists will organise dance and music shows and performances during festivals or special occasions as surprise events for the visitors.
The airport authority has also started developing a large food court over 720sqm in the domestic terminal. Sources said the authority plans to promote local cuisine through the new food court.
With the introduction of direct flights to international destinations such as Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) and Bangkok (Thailand), the authorities believe there is a scope to further popularise the state.
"The city now attracts more outsiders, especially after it topped the smart city challenge. The airport, being the gateway to the city, should promote the state's art and culture of the state," said Saheed Nagar resident Pratap Jena, a frequent flyer.
