Missile Man inspired by Army Sepoy’s brilliant painting

Former President Dr A P J Abdul Kalam was impressed by an oil painting of his done by Renjith C, a Sepoy with the Indian Army.

During his recent visit to Bengaluru, the Missile Man met the 30-year-old soldier, a gifted artist, and complimented his work.

As reported by OneIndia, the meeting was a dream come true for Renjith. The scientist-artist interaction took place at Karnataka Raj Bhawan on June 12.

Impressed by the massive oil painting of his, Dr Kalam had some quick queries to the artist.

"Fatastic, I say! How many days it took? Where are you from? Continue with your work. You are a talented man," Dr Kalam said, before autographing it. The painting named ‘Music behind the missile hands, measures 37 x 40 inches with a teak wood frame.

Renjith says he has already handed over the painting to an organisation that supports unsung heroes.

"My mission has been accomplished after Kalam Sir blessed the painting. Now, the proceeds from the sale of the painting will go for a good cause. I have already handed over it to a Foundation," says Renjith.

A die-hard devotee of Dr Kalam, Renjith even fixed the permanent marker used by the former President to one of the pencil sketches.

"Kalam Sir gave his autograph on the oil painting, a pencil sketch and a book. The permanent marker too is now part of history as I do not want anyone to use it again. I have attached it on to the pencil sketch of his," says Renjith.

Renjith's five-day solo painting exhibition ‘Awakening' concluded at Venkatappa Art Gallery in Bengaluru on June 14. The theme of the exhibition was ‘Say no to killing of animals, especially cows.'

"As an artist I am happy that my message to save the cows has been liked by many, especially youngsters," says Renjith.

According to Madhu Nair, an official with the Defence PRO's wing in Bengaluru, the exhibition was a huge success.

"It attracted the right kind of audience. On the last day, there were many foreigners as well. Renjith has definitely become a proud ambassador of Indian Army," says Madhu.