Shariful Sheikh, a young artist from Veramara in Kushtia, has created a stir by painting large portraits of global football star Lionel Messi on several walls near Arakandi Bazar in Bahadurpur. Covering about 16 by 10 feet, the four portraits—two in color and two in black and white—were completed entirely at his own expense. The artworks have attracted crowds of visitors who come to take photos and praise his creativity.

Shariful, a commercial artist and drawing teacher, said his admiration for Argentina and Messi began in 2002. He emphasized that the project was driven purely by passion, not commercial motives. Local residents and Argentina supporters have lauded his effort as both an expression of football fandom and a model of rural artistry. Observers noted that such large-scale depictions of international icons are rare in village settings.

Art critics and community members believe that with proper support, rural talents like Shariful could contribute significantly to the national art scene. His Messi portraits now stand as symbols of dedication, emotion, and creative spirit in the heart of Kushtia.