VIJAYAWADA: Patriotic themes came alive on canvas as around 250 children took part in a painting competition at the Bapu Museum in Vijayawada on Sunday as part of the 80th Independence Day celebrations. The event was jointly organised by Bright Minds and the Lions Club of Vanijya Vibhag. Dr Lakshmisha said painting and other art activities played an important role in nurturing patriotism, creativity and national spirit among children. The competition was held in four age groups, with participants portraying themes related to patriotism, the Tricolour, national leaders and Independence. Babu, Bapu Museum commissioner Suresh Babu, Tagore Memorial Library Officer K. Ramadevi, UPPS faculty member Chandrika and Lions Club of Vanijya Vibhag representatives Srimannarayana, Prabhu and Poornima presented the awards.