Kolkata’s iconic yellow Ambassador taxis are getting a vibrant makeover this Durga Puja, transforming into moving artworks celebrating the city’s biggest festival. As part of a public art initiative titled “Pujor Shaaj Gaari”, local artists from the Government College of Art & Craft have hand-painted traditional Durga Puja motifs on dozens of taxis — from images of Maa Durga and dhaakis to intricate alpona and scenes from Kumartuli.
The project, supported by the Kolkata Municipal Corporation and taxi unions, aims to revive the cultural identity of these fading vehicles while offering a nostalgic nod to Bengal’s artistic roots. For taxi drivers, the response has been overwhelming. Many now offer themed rides through pandal routes, with passengers requesting selfies and stories behind the artwork.
A grand “Moving Art Parade” is scheduled before Bijoya Dashami, featuring the painted taxis in a festive convoy through central Kolkata. In a city where art, emotion, and celebration merge seamlessly, these taxis now carry more than passengers — they carry the spirit of Pujo itself.