In a unique gesture of respect and admiration, an artist from Koyilandy, India, has presented the United Arab Emirates with a meticulously crafted bamboo sculpture depicting the nation’s leaders in festivity of it’s National day. The artwork, a testament too the deep cultural ties between India and the UAE, showcases the portraits of both founding fathers and current leadership. The artist, Shiju Arikkulam, has previously earned national recognition for his innovative portraiture, demonstrating a history of artistic tributes to prominent figures.
A resident of Koyilandy, India, has crafted a unique gift for the United Arab Emirates in celebration of its National Day: a bamboo sculpture featuring portraits of the nation’s leaders. The artwork is a testament to the artist’s deep respect and affection for the UAE and its ruling families.
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The bamboo artwork depicts the founding fathers of the UAE – Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum – alongside current leaders including UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council. The portraits are intricately carved into the sides of a single bamboo stalk.
Measuring 45 centimeters in height and 25 centimeters in width, the sculpture was created using bamboo sourced from India. The artwork also visually represents the UAE’s remarkable transformation from a desert landscape into a global hub. This display of artistic skill comes as the UAE marks another year of national pride and progress.
The creation of the piece required a week of dedicated effort. “This is a country that welcomes those seeking sustenance with open arms. It is a second home for many Malayalis,” explained Shiju Arikkulam, the artist behind the sculpture. “This artwork is a way to express my respect and love for the UAE in a unique manner.”
This is not the first time Arikkulam has used his artistic talents to honor the UAE. He previously entered the record books with the largest portrait of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum created using peppercorns, earning recognition in both the Asia Book of Records and the India Book of Records. His canvas depicting Dubai’s development through the lens of an Emirati photographer also garnered significant attention. Arikkulam has also created portraits of numerous prominent figures, including Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. He completed his fine arts studies at the Calicut School of Fine Arts. He is married to Soumya, and they have two children, Adithri and Aditi.
Content Highlights: Koyilandy native Shiju Arikkulam crafts a unique UAE National Day gift using bamboo, showcasing his respect for the nation and its leaders.
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