Author: Village Square
‘Cinema can capture a way of life that may soon get lost’
Cinema has the power to show all facets of society, says Stenzin Tankong, whose Last Days of Summer is being screened at Chitrashaala Short Film Festival. He tells us how his films portray Ladakh, and more.
India’s hinterland hopefuls at the Paris Olympics
As all eyes in the world turn towards Paris for the Olympic Games 2024 starting today, we bring to you six Indian athletes with humble beginnings who are representing the country at the international event.
All you need to know about Village Square’s Chitrashaala short film festival
Screening of selected short films on rural India, conversations with filmmakers, interactions with acclaimed directors, actors and critics – you can catch all this and more at Chitrashaala on August 3. Here’s what the day will bring.
Mixed signals for rural sector in latest Union Budget
India's 2024-25 Budget presents a mixed bag for rural development. With increased overall funding but cuts in crucial programmes like MGNREGS, the coming year will reveal if these allocations can effectively address the challenges faced by the rural economy.
Nothing ‘aam’ about these mango varieties
Move over Safeda, Langda and Chausa – the more popular mango varieties of India. This Mango Day, we do a round-up of some lesser-known regional favourites for you to savour.
Chitrashaala – Village Square’s short film fest trains the lens on rural India
Watch powerful films like Giddh (The Scavanger) and Last Days of Summer, interact with film personalities Muzaffar Ali, Adil Hussain, Faisal Malik and others, and learn more about rural India at Chitrashaala, Village Square’s short film festival.
Summer vibes of India – school photo contest winners announced!
Here are the winning entries of the ‘Summer vibes of India – National photo contest’ held for school students.
When it rains, it pours festivals in July
From spiritual processions to harvest festivals, and everything in between, here are six vibrant rural celebrations across India that you can visit this month.
‘Queer voices are almost absent in the northeast’
Belonging to the LGBTQ+ community is tougher in the northeast, with its context of militarisation and political violence, says Sadam Hanjabam, the founder-CEO of Ya_All, a Manipur-based organisation working to empower the queer identity through sports.
Ornamental treasures from rural India
In addition to being a striking fashion statement, jewellery is also an integral part of India’s rich cultural heritage. Village Square brings to you a photo essay comprising vibrant ornaments from rural India.
Look hot, feel cool with sustainable fabrics this summer
With the mercury breaking records this summer, why not cool things down with some lightweight natural and sustainable fabrics made from crops that our farmers grow? After all, the only thing that should sizzle is your style quotient.
‘We need to empower artisans to create market-ready designs’
Rural craftspersons have to be trained in costing, pricing, marketing, understanding consumers, packaging and storytelling to help them become successful entrepreneurs.
These hidden Himalayan locales are perfect summer getaways
Craving a cool break from the heat of the plains? Head to these secluded Indian hill stations nestled in the Himalayas that are off the tourist map.
‘Even small ponds make a big difference’
It’s not just us but also our water bodies that are parched today. And community-driven water conservation is the need of the hour for rural empowerment and environmental sustainability, says Maulik Sisodia, executive director, Tarun Bharat Sangh.
In pics : Rural India’s lifeline – bicycles
In rural India, bicycles are indispensable, providing essential transportation for work, school and leisure, come rain or shine. They are the true lifelines, ensuring mobility and connectivity.
In pics – How India’s fishers look for ‘net gain’
Approximately 28 million fishers, both men and women, thrive across India, showcasing their skills in lakes, rivers and oceans. Stunning aerial shots reveal the deep cultural bonds they forge and the breathtaking landscapes of the country.
Six traditional indoor games that kids can enjoy this summer
The heat may keep children indoors during their vacation, but fret not. There are ways to keep them engaged and happy well within the home. Village Square does a round-up of some traditional Indian games that can keep your kids gainfully occupied all through their vacation.
Offbeat Buddhist heritage sites to add to your travel plans
As Buddhists across the world celebrate Buddha Purnima today, we take you to some lesser-known Buddhist heritage sites in India. From monasteries to ancient stupas, here are six destinations that will leave you awestruck.
Fashion influencer Nancy Tyagi’s journey from Barnawa to Cannes
“Mehnat kabhi waste nahi jaati,” (hard work never goes to waste) says Nancy Tyagi, the Indian influencer from a village in Uttar Pradesh who is winning hearts at the 77th Cannes film festival.
Swara Mountain Arts-the amalgamation of talent
Blending fun and learning, the Swara Mountain Arts Festival 2024 in Dharamshala brought together talented artists and mentors under one roof. Here are a few highlights from this vibrant event.