In a vibrant display of cultural harmony, Russian children transformed the ancient Indian epic Ramayana into art at an exhibition in Vladivostok. Organised by the Consulate General of India in collaboration with the Russian-Indian Club and the Primorye State Art Gallery, the event featured nearly 300 artworks by children aged 5 to 16.
The initiative was inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s message in his 125th Mann ki Baat, where he said: “Ram is not just ours; Ram belongs to everyone.” The exhibition echoed this sentiment, presenting the Ramayana as a universal story that transcends borders.
A celebration of universal values
The young artists depicted scenes from the epic, highlighting themes of courage, loyalty, righteousness, and devotion. Their works reflected how the Ramayana’s timeless narrative resonates across diverse cultures and generations.
Despite Vladivostok’s freezing winters — where temperatures can plunge to -20 to -30 degrees Celsius — the warmth of Indian culture filled the gallery halls. The children’s art collectively wove together episodes of the Ramayana, reaffirming the relevance of ancient stories in today’s interconnected world.
Modi lauds global reach of Ramayana
During his address, Prime Minister Modi praised the cultural bridge created by the event.
“This month, a unique exhibition was held in Vladivostok. Paintings made by Russian children on different themes of Ramayana were showcased there. A competition was also organised. It is indeed heartening to see the growing awareness of Indian culture in different parts of the world,” he said.
Cultural diplomacy through art
The exhibition was not only an art competition but also a celebration of cultural diplomacy, strengthening ties between India and Russia. For the children, it provided an opportunity to engage with stories outside their own heritage while connecting with universal themes of duty and justice.
The organisers emphasised that such initiatives demonstrate the role of cultural exchange in building bridges of friendship and fostering mutual respect between nations.
Conclusion
The Vladivostok exhibition highlighted how India’s cultural treasures continue to inspire young minds across the globe. By reimagining the Ramayana through their creativity, Russian children underscored the epic’s timeless ability to unite people and cultures beyond geographical boundaries.