It was an unusual Diwali at the International Container Transshipment Terminal in Vallarpadam this time. Instead of the regular fun, DP World operators at the terminal decided to promote physically challenged artists.
The operators, in league with the Mouth and Foot Painting Artists (MFPA) association commissioned paintings from four artists as a gesture of support.
Amongst those honoured at the terminal premises on Wednesday was Malappuram-based Jesfer Pulikkathody whose body has remained paralysed from the neck downwards for the last 12 years. Jesfer has been suffering from muscular dystrophy and could not complete his schooling. But his passion for painting was promoted by his parents and friends and he began painting by holding the brush in his mouth. “I contacted MFPA who lent me support because of which I have held exhibitions in Kozhikode and Singapore,” said Jesfer who has not had any formal training in painting.
His picture entitled ‘Kochi Sunset’ was inspired by a few visits to the city earlier and it took him four days to complete the work.
“It’s an amazing composition — nature at play combining the brilliant colours of the evening sky, the still waters and the seashore. This symphony is what I tried to capture,” he said.
Other artists who were supported by DP World are M.V. Ravindaran from Tamil Nadu, Manoj Bingare from Maharashtra and Manjibhai Navibhai Ramani from Gujarat. DP World chief executive officer K.K. Krishnadas and Cochin Port chairman Paul Antony also commended Jesfer.