Abirpothi

India’s only daily art newspaper

contemporary

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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Masters’ Art on Display: Confluence Exhibition at Sridharini Gallery, Triveni Kala Sangam

Confluence, a new exhibition including the works by masters, opened recently at Sridharini Gallery, Triveni Kala Sangam. The exhibition exhibited the works of great masters, including F.N Souza, Jamini Roy, Krishen Khanna, M.F. Hussain, Satish Gujral, Sakti Burman, and others. Displaying their best of works the exhibition is already attaining eyeballs and creating a buzz …

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Divine Doorways: Exploring the Mystique of Kavad Art from Rajasthan

A kavad is a mobile shrine or temple intricately crafted from painted wood. It holds significance within the oral storytelling practice known as kavad banchana, widely embraced in the Rajasthan region. The term “kavad” is thought to have roots in Sanskrit words such as “kavaat,” “kapaat,” or “kivaad,” which allude to a “half door” or …

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Dhabla Weaving, A Unique Craft from The Deserts of India

What is a Dhabla? Dhabla, a Rajasthani-style Kutch weaving, evolved through the migration of Vankar people from Rajasthan, settling in Kutch due to commerce. They mastered the unique dhabla weave suited to the region’s hot climate.The Meghwals’ journey to Kutch, driven by their devotion to Shri Ram Dev Pirji, added to the cultural tapestry. The …

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Weaving Warmth: The Evolution and Artistry of Kullu Shawls

INTRODUCTION The origin of the name ‘Kullu’ can be traced to ‘kulant peeth’, signifying ‘the terminus of the inhabited world’. This picturesque valley settlement finds its snug abode nestled between the mighty lower and greater Himalayan ranges, harmoniously tracing the path of the Beas River. While a handful of hotels and resorts have emerged, life …

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Artistic Narratives: The Remarkable Journey of Self-Taught Artist Kunwar Aamir Hameed Wani

Kunwar Aamir Hameed Wani, a self-taught artist hailing from the enchanting region of Kashmir, began his artistic journey at a remarkably young age. Initiating his creative exploration with watercolours, he gradually ventured into diverse mediums including acrylics, oils, inks, and tempera. Infusing his distinctive touch, he even crafts his own handmade colors from locally available …

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Stitched with Care: Handmade Tale of Kasuti Embroidery from Karnataka

The hands that embroider the Indian textiles are artists of the greatest degree. One such embroidery tradition from Karnataka is Kasuti embroidery. It is a popular art form in northern Karnataka that is practised by women of the region, India, rooted in the region’s villages. It is one of the oldest Indian practices, dating back …

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From Goa to the Capital: Sonia Rodrigues Sabarwal’s Artistry in the New Parliament

Aditya Sisodia Goan artist Sonia Rodrigues Sabarwal has made her mark on the recently opened New Parliament building in Delhi with her depiction of the goddess ‘Sheetlai’ as part of a mural called the ‘People’s Wall.’ Representing the art from different states of India, Sonia’s panel showcases the vibrant culture of Goa. The mural, which …

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Speaking Back to Power: Art as a Tool for Political Resistance and Social Change

Saptarshi Ghosh The Subversive Humour in Honoré Daumier’s Caricatures Honoré Daumier was a prominent 19th century French artist and printmaker, who was known for his political caricatures. With his sharp wit and acerbic humour, Daumier mounted scathing attacks on the corrupt ruling establishment and made incisive commentaries on contemporary socio-political issues through his satirical lithographs. …

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