Author: MeMeraki
These are doorways to culture
India’s rich architectural heritage is vividly expressed through its intricate doors, windows, and jharokhas. These elements are not merely functional; they are imbued with deep symbolism and aesthetic significance, reflecting the cultural, religious, and historical contexts of their times.
Spirits and beverages: Mapping Warli tradition through food culture
We take a look at a particular palm spirit called tadi, or toddy, which is important to the Warli tribe.
10 unique ways India celebrates Holi
From displaying martial art skills to lighting bonfires and throwing flowers, Holi is celebrated in a variety of ways across India. Here, we take a closer look at 10 unique traditions.
The portrayal of women in Kalighat paintings
Kalighat paintings offer a fascinating glimpse into the complex and evolving relationship between societal expectations, gender roles, and females in India. By portraying women as both symbols of tradition and catalysts for change, the art form serves as a valuable record of a transformative period. The contemporary depiction of women in Kalighat can be seen as a continuing struggle for gender equality and women’s rights in today’s society.
Tattoos: Wearing cultural history on the skin
Tattoos, passed down generations across India, link individuals to their cultural heritage, depicting a person's identity, caste, gender, beliefs, and customs. Diverse tattoo practices are found in many tribes and groups, each with its methods and meanings.
Explore the richness of traditional Indian art
Learning about Indian art has become accessible, through books, movies, podcasts as well as workshops and courses. Whether it is traditional art or contemporary, they connect us to India’s rich cultural legacy.
A rich legacy of toys and board games in India
Ancient India had a rich tradition of board games, whose variations are still played today as Snakes & Ladders, Ludo and chess. The games were also a way to inculcate moral values in children.
Art’s the way: More wedding gift ideas
In the second part of the feature on wedding gifts inspired by Indian arts and crafts, we bring to you an array of religious paintings and home decor items that will spoil you for choice. Try not to hold on to these for yourself!
Wedding gift ideas inspired by traditional Indian art
Given the growing interest in local Indian art, we bring to you an exhaustive list of arts and crafts from the subcontinent that you can gift this wedding season. Here’s the first of this two-part feature.
The legacy of storytelling by mystical shadows of Tholpaavokothu puppets
The ancient art form of Tholpaavokothu shadow puppetry is a cultural ritual steeped in tradition, spirituality, and artistic craftsmanship. It is unique in more ways than one.
The Evolution of Toda Embroidery
Toda embroidery, practised by the indigenous people of Nilgiri hills, is known for its precise geometric patterns of bright red, black and white inspired by nature and mythological stories. Spurred by market demand, it is gaining visibility through a wide array of products.
Indian Traditional Art in Weddings
Every region in India has its own unique art style which is an integral part of the wedding festivities to usher in fertility, prosperity, and auspiciousness. Their stories, rooted in folklore, make for a riveting read.