Lav-Kush Park in Ayodhya: ₹17.72 crore 'Art from Waste' project begins
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Ayodhya is set to get a landmark new public space as the Lav-Kush Park, a ₹17.72 crore initiative built on an 'Art from Waste' theme, is approved for development under the State Smart City Mission. The park, being developed by the Ayodhya Municipal Corporation, will bring together Ramayana mythology, eco-conscious design, and interactive art — making it one of the most distinctive tourism projects in Uttar Pradesh in recent years.
What the Park Will Feature
At the heart of the project is the 'Art from Waste' concept: urban scrap and discarded materials will be repurposed into sculptures, models, and installations depicting the mythological stories of Lord Ram's sons, Lav and Kush. The park will also include scrap metal sculptures, artistic murals, and interactive exhibits drawing from the Ramayana tradition.
Modern amenities — including walkways, gardens, seating areas, lighting, and security systems — will be integrated throughout. Construction is scheduled to begin shortly, with eco-friendly materials to be used throughout the build.
What the Municipal Commissioner Said
Municipal Commissioner Jayendra Kumar said the park will specifically focus on the stories of Lav and Kush, presenting these popular tales from the Ramayana era through modern art. 'These popular tales from the Ramayana era will be presented through the medium of modern art, enabling the younger generation to connect with their mythological history,' Kumar said.
Education and Environmental Goals
The park is designed to serve a dual purpose: cultural preservation and environmental awareness. Special tours and workshops for school and college students are planned to raise awareness about waste management and environmental conservation. Officials say the project integrates sustainable development principles with heritage storytelling — a combination rarely attempted at this scale in a pilgrimage city.
Notably, the 'Art from Waste' message carries particular resonance coming from Ayodhya, a city whose religious significance gives it national visibility. Experts believe such parks can meaningfully boost local economies alongside tourism footfall.
Ayodhya's Expanding Tourism Footprint
The Lav-Kush Park is part of a broader development push in Ayodhya, which has seen rapid upgrades to infrastructure, sanitation, and tourism facilities in recent years. The project aligns with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's Smart Cities vision. Many religious figures believe that after landmarks like the Ram Mandir, Hanuman Garhi, and Kanak Bhawan, the Lav-Kush Park could emerge as a fresh focal point for visitors to the city.
With the Ram Mandir consecration having already drawn record pilgrim numbers, civic planners are clearly betting that Ayodhya's tourism moment extends well beyond a single shrine.