25th March 2026: As part of its ongoing efforts to sensitise coastal communities about whale sharks, the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI), under its Pan-India Whale Shark Conservation Project, has launched a series of vibrant mural artworks across key fish landing sites in Goa and Kerala.

In Kerala, murals have been created by Wayanad-based artist Sunil K at major fishing hubs, including Chettuva Harbour in Thrissur and Azhikkal Harbour in Kannur. These locations were selected not only for their high visibility among fishers but also to engage the broader community, including residents and other stakeholders. The project aims to create a lasting impact by delivering a clear and powerful message: “From Nets to Freedom — Kerala Leads Whale Shark Protection”.

Mural by Wayanad-based artist Sunil K in Azhikkal Harbour, Kannur | Photo © Jithin Jose.

“The beautiful murals not only enhance our harbours but also carry important messages about conservation. They remind us of our responsibility towards marine life,” said local fisher and community leader Rajesh Nair. “It is heartening to see such initiatives aimed at protecting our oceans and the creatures that inhabit them.”

In Goa, murals have been painted at Talpona, Chapora, Cutbona, and Malim jetties, areas frequented by fishing communities and tourists, and carry a clear message, “Cut the nets, save Goa’s whale sharks; Safer sea, Safer Whale sharks–Goa Leads”.

Three of the murals were designed and executed by Tushar Naik, a 28-year-old artist and government school art teacher from Canacona, South Goa. The mural near Malim Jetty was created by professional mural artist Omkar Gaddanakeri, whose work contributes significantly to awareness at one of North Goa’s busiest fish landing sites.

Artist Tushar Naik has created a vibrant mural in Talpona Jetty, South Goa | Photo © Team WTI

Through these artworks, WTI aims to raise awareness among fishers and the general public of the importance of safely rescuing and releasing whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) in cases of accidental entanglement. The campaign also highlights the need for safer fishing practices during peak seasons.

Speaking on the initiative, Saymanti Bandyopadhyay, Manager and Head, Natural Heritage Campaigns, WTI, said, “Such creative interventions serve as effective tools for sensitising communities and strengthening conservation action at the grassroots level. WTI is working closely with local fishers, government departments, and other stakeholders to promote the safe rescue and release of whale sharks.”

Since launching its Pan-India Whale Shark Conservation Project in Kerala in 2017, WTI has partnered with the Kerala Forest Department, fishers and stakeholders to rescue and release 54 entangled whale sharks. Building on this success, the project expanded to Goa in August 2025 in collaboration with the Goa Forest and Fisheries Departments, strengthening conservation efforts along India’s west coast.