Mangaluru: Travellers arriving at Mangaluru International Airport are now welcomed by a striking granite Yakshagana statue, celebrating the cultural heritage of coastal Karnataka. The installation is part of the airport’s ongoing initiative to integrate local art into its public spaces, creating a culturally immersive experience for passengers.
The statue portrays a youthful Yakshagana figure with a calm demeanour, giving visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich folk traditions. Standing 10.25 feet tall on a 3-foot pedestal and weighing nearly four tonnes, it captures attention with its detailed craftsmanship while paying tribute to Yakshagana, the coastal folk theatre known for its elaborate costumes, vibrant dance, and storytelling.
Sculptor embraces Tuluva culture
The artwork was created by Himanshu Kumar, a 38-year-old sculptor originally from Bihar, who has made Karnataka his home and embraced Tuluva culture as his own. Leading his studio Akrathi Shilpa Kala, Himanshu has earned recognition for exceptional craftsmanship in preserving India’s diverse art forms.
Despite the scale of the project, the Yakshagana statue was completed in just 64 days. Himanshu and his team’s dedication is reflected in the statue’s precision and artistry, which symbolises the deep respect for Karnataka’s folk traditions.
Airport as a cultural showcase
The new Yakshagana statue is the latest addition to several cultural exhibits already featured across the airport. These include a lenticular wall portraying the fishing harbour at Bunder, comparing its appearance 100 years ago with today; figurines of fishermen, the tiger dance (pili vesha), Yakshagana performers, and a kambala racer with buffaloes, prominently placed across arrival halls.
According to airport officials, these installations are designed not only to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the airport but also to provide travellers with a meaningful introduction to the cultural vibrancy of coastal Karnataka.
Adani Group’s vision for the airport
Mangaluru International Airport Limited, managed by Adani Airport Holdings Limited (AAHL), continues to position the airport as a world-class facility with strong regional character. In FY 2024-25, the airport handled its highest-ever passenger volume of 2.32 million.
The Adani Group aims to develop Mangaluru International Airport as a preferred tier-II hub, digitally inclusive and tech-savvy, while maintaining high safety standards. The integration of cultural installations such as the Yakshagana statue forms part of this vision, blending tradition with modern infrastructure.
Conclusion: Heritage meets modern mobility
By combining local folk heritage with world-class facilities, Mangaluru International Airport is presenting travellers with a unique cultural welcome. The Yakshagana statue is not just a landmark within the terminal but also a reminder of Karnataka’s timeless art, standing tall at the crossroads of tradition and modernity.