Abirpothi

Smriti Malhotra

Contributor

Art and Gandhi: A Reflection of India’s Freedom Struggle

Introduction Artistic expression has always been a mirror reflecting the social, economic, and intellectual milieu of a society. During the Indian freedom struggle, a period marked by intense patriotism and collective efforts under the leadership of great men, art played a significant role in conveying the spirit of the movement. In this essay let’s see

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From Novel to Icon: ‘The Agony and the Ecstasy’ and the Timeless Image of Michelangelo

“The Agony and the Ecstasy” by Irving Stone is a seminal work in historical fiction, offering readers a vivid portrayal of the life and art of the Renaissance genius Michelangelo Buonarroti. This scholarly article seeks to delve into the depth of Stone’s narrative, exploring its historical accuracy, character development, and artistic interpretations. Through a comprehensive

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The Timeless Legacy of Ancient Greek Art: A Journey Through Seven Artistic Eras

Introduction The profound influence of Ancient Greece on human civilisation is undeniable, inspiring generations and geographies. Among the various facets of this remarkable civilisation, art stands and shines advocating the power of creative expression. Greek art has left a mark on architecture, sculpture, painting, pottery, and jewellery design, shaping the very essence of artistic sensibility

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Balancing Act: The Evolving Perception of Artists from Labourers to Icons

The Myth of the Artist’s Life In the context of a Taoist philosophical text from the late fourth century B.C., an anecdote emerges recounting the actions of a Chinese lord who summons artists for a commissioned task. Implicit in the phrase “the artist’s life” is the notion of a distinct and separate existence. As the

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Magnificent Masks of Chhau: Tradition, Technique and Transformations

Chhau in Purulia and the Mask-Making Purulia, the westernmost district of West Bengal, boasts a stunning natural landscape with rivers winding through lush hills and dramatic rocky outcrops framing thunderous waterfalls. Amidst this natural beauty lies a rich historical tapestry, with countless ancient temples scattered across the district. Moreover, Purulia is renowned for its intangible

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Ganesha’s Iconography: A Multifaceted Journey from Mythology to Modernity (Part 2)

Symbolism in Ganesha’s Accessories The Broken Tusk (Ekadanta) One of the most prominent symbols associated with Ganesha is his broken tusk. According to mythology, Ganesha sacrificed his own tusk to use as a writing tool during the transcription of the epic Mahabharata. This act of self-sacrifice carries deep symbolic significance. It teaches us the value

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Stitching Stories, One Stitch at a Time: Tale of Bengal’s Kantha

The Roots of Kantha Embroidery The Kantha, a form of embroidery, thrives in 21st-century India, with around 50,000 women embroiderers engaging in what they call “ghore bosa kaaj” or home-based work. This rich tradition of embroidery traces its roots back millennia, as evidenced by archaeological finds of needles in the ancient cities of the Harappan

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Ganesha’s Iconography: A Multifaceted Journey from Mythology to Modernity (Part 1)

Introduction Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity, stands as an iconic and beloved figure in Hinduism and beyond. His distinctive form, replete with intricate symbolism, tells a story of mythology, spirituality, and cultural significance. In the tradition of Hindu deities, Ganesha holds a unique place, celebrated not only as the Remover of Obstacles but also as the

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