Rajib Roy Choudhury has been promoted to the role of Associate Vice President at Vedic Village Spa Resort, a celebrated eco-conscious destination located near Kolkata International Airport and the city’s upcoming Central Business District. Having served as Senior General Manager for four impactful years, Rajib now steps into a broader strategic role overseeing brand and operational alignment while championing key sustainability initiatives across the resort group.

With a career spanning top-tier properties like Cidade de Goa, Taj Holiday Village, and Radisson White Sands Resort, Rajib brings to the table a wealth of operational expertise and market insight. His leadership journey includes shaping guest experiences and delivering consistent financial results at The Imperial Palace in Rajkot, Vainguinim Valley Resort, Floatel, The Sonnet, and The Ananda Imperial.

At Vedic Village, his commitment to sustainable hospitality and community-driven practices has been pivotal in transforming the resort into a cultural and eco-tourism icon. He has successfully infused Bengal’s rich heritage into the guest journey—celebrated through local cuisine, architecture, and collaborations with artisans and farmers.

Known for his consultative leadership, Rajib has developed high-performing teams, fostered innovation, and nurtured an inclusive culture that’s earned the resort multiple industry accolades. Under his guidance, the resort has seen steady operational excellence and enhanced guest satisfaction.

An active member of CII Tourism Sub-Committee, SKAL, and other industry forums, Rajib continues to engage with corporates, B2B stakeholders, and associations to drive tourism advocacy and best practices. His focus on continuous learning and development—through workshops, conferences, and seminars—reflects his commitment to staying ahead in a rapidly evolving hospitality landscape.

As he takes on his new role, Rajib Roy Choudhury is all set to lead Vedic Village Spa Resort into its next phase of sustainable growth, innovation, and community impact.

In the quiet village of Kalady, Kerala, resides Dr. Saju Thuruthil—one of India’s most revered mural artists, who has spent over 35 years redefining Kerala’s traditional art form. While he stays away from the mainstream art market, his influence resonates globally, with over 2,000 artworks in private collections across 38 countries. His murals grace every airport in Kerala, blending heritage with modern public spaces.

A Life Dedicated to Mural Art

Dr. Thuruthil holds India’s first Ph.D. in mural painting, has authored a textbook on the subject, and has led the Mural Painting Department at Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit, Kalady, for 27 years. As Director of the Kerala Mural Heritage Conservation Centre, he has restored ancient murals in over a dozen temples, including the famed Padmanabhaswamy Temple. He has received numerous national and state awards and fellowships.

Almost three decades ago, he turned his home into Kerala’s first residential art gallery—an act of devotion that brought mural art closer to people, making it both personal and accessible.

Reimagining the Mural Form

Though rooted in traditional temple art, Dr. Thuruthil revolutionized the mural format by adapting it to canvas. This evolution expanded its reach into hotels, airports, corporate spaces, and homes, while his themes began to reflect deeper emotional and social undertones.

Iconic Series and Signature Works

His most acclaimed works include:

• "Chayamukhi": A series of over 500 pieces exploring nostalgia, femininity, and longing—collected by names like the Tata Group, Union Bank, and TVS.
• "Sri Chakra Kundalini": A spiritual series inspired by tantric philosophy and Kerala’s color traditions.
• "Lady with Bird": 250 charcoal works with poetic stillness, often adorning hotel suites.
• "Yakshi": A visual ode to feminine divinity in 85 expressive paintings.
• "Vastraapaharanam": A 6x4 ft reimagining of Krishna and the gopis, focused on purity and beauty.
• "Three Girls": A tender portrayal of childhood, beloved for its emotional intimacy.
• "Radhika": A 12x4 ft mural capturing Radha’s longing, housed in Hotel Royal Resoi, Mumbai.

Monumental Projects and Conservation

Dr. Saju’s commitment extends beyond canvas. He led the restoration of several historic temples and completed massive mural works, including:

• A 140-ft-long mural narrating the Mughal dynasty
• A 140-ft Ramayana mural in Kerala style
• The world’s largest Vishnumurti Theyyam mural (5,000+ sq. ft) at Kannur International Airport
• A 70-ft mural at Cochin Airport portraying Kerala’s cultural richness

A Living Legacy

With nearly 2,000 students trained, Dr. Thuruthil’s legacy is not just in his art but in his role as a mentor and movement leader. His works echo a timeless beauty—free from protest or anger, filled instead with grace, love, and reflection.

In a world rushing forward, Dr. Saju stands still—his brush rooted in tradition, his vision forever evolving. Through his silent dedication, he has given mural art a powerful voice, ensuring that Kerala’s visual heritage continues to thrive on a global canvas.

For collaborations or inquiries, please feel free to get in touch via www.sajuthuruthil.com.

Mumbai’s vibrant cultural scene welcomes a new addition with the launch of MYNA Academy of Performing Arts in Khar West — a 2,500 sq. ft. space dedicated to nurturing happiness through expression. From toddlers discovering rhythm to seniors rekindling their love for the arts, MYNA offers something for every age group.

Founded by Arti Havaldar, a passionate student of Hindustani classical music, the academy is supported by the Anibha Arts Foundation, a not-for-profit arm of the Havaldar family. The name “MYNA” pays homage to the songbird known for its melody, grace, and adaptability, embodying the academy’s philosophy.

Unlike conventional, rigid models of learning, MYNA takes a curiosity-led approach that prioritizes experience over competition. Through sessions in music, dance, and theatre, sensorial workshops, weekend labs, and masterclasses, the academy fosters a nurturing space for exploration and creative growth.

The faculty comprises accomplished artists, educators, and performers, all committed to helping students connect with their inner creativity. MYNA’s standout offerings include early-expression programs for toddlers, regular classes across disciplines, and community-focused performances that encourage shared learning and connection.

Founder Arti Havaldar shares, “We aimed at creating a space where people come to feel the arts and not merely study them. Learning at MYNA is about connection, creativity, and most importantly, joy.”

Whether you're three or seventy-three, MYNA is a sanctuary for storytelling, self-expression, and shared joy — a space where art becomes a way of life.