IN VIDEOS
The Sieng Riti Institute: A legacy of Khasi tradition
The Sieng Riti Institute in Wahkhen has been highly instrumental in preserving Khasi music, dance, and culture. Founded by Komik Khongjrem, it teaches traditional instruments, songs, and dances, inspiring new generations to appreciate their heritage.
Nartiang Monoliths: Echoes of the past in Meghalaya
The Nartiang Monoliths, located in Meghalaya’s Jaintia Hills, are towering stone structures that honour the region’s royal heritage. These iconic monuments, steeped in history, stand as enduring symbols of remembrance and cultural significance.
A sacred forest of spirituality & tradition in Meghalaya
The Mawphlang sacred forest in Meghalaya is a stunning natural site with deep cultural significance. Protected by the Khasi tribe for centuries, it’s a peaceful place where nature, spirituality, and tradition come together.
From earth to art: Larnai black clay pottery
Larnai black clay pottery, hand-crafted using locally sourced black clay and serpentine stone, is a traditional art form from Meghalaya. Known for its unique designs, it reflects the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Her cafe’s Kangri dham a big draw
Started by Manisha Thakur in 2022, Her cafe is an all-women-run cafe in Bir that serves local Himachali delicacies and provides the feel of a home-cooked meal in their village-inspired cafe setting.
All stakeholders on board with whale shark conservation
Conservation actions are in place for whale sharks, a protected species under the Wildlife Protection Act, in Kerala. Village Square looks at one project initiated in the state by the Wildlife Trust of India in 2017, and the perspectives of the fishing communities on such efforts.
Living with stripes – struggles in Ranthambore
Ranthambore, home to Bengal tigers, faces rising human-wildlife conflict. As tiger numbers grow, territorial pressures push them into nearby villages, creating life-threatening encounters for humans and wildlife.
Through the lens: Ghulam Mohammad Sofi chronicles Mahatta’s legacy
In 1972, Ghulam Mohammad Sofi joined Srinagar’s legendary Mahatta studio. Founded in 1915, it pioneered colour photography, capturing history, celebrities, and Kashmir’s essence through its lens.
Mawryngkhang trek celebrates the lore of a love affair
The Bamboo Trek offers an exhilarating adventure through Meghalaya's lush landscapes. This scenic trail takes you through dense bamboo forests, across vibrant hills, and along stunning cliffs. It is not for the faint-hearted.
Mawlynnong: The village that redefines cleanliness
Mawlynnong, known as ‘Asia's cleanest village’, is a picturesque settlement in Meghalaya. Famous for its pristine beauty, eco-friendly practices, and welcoming community, it offers a unique experience of sustainable living amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Get your Genie in a Bottle!
Here is a new age lifestyle brand that will tickle your senses with aromatherapy. Genie in a Bottle is homegrown in the forests of the Dhauladhar ranges from where it draws its inspiration to create magical blends of essential oils.
Flying above the abode of clouds
As a child, Maxwell dreamt of becoming a pilot. When that dream didn’t materialise, he discovered paramotoring and found a new way to reach the skies. Now, he’s dedicated to promoting the sport in his home state of Meghalaya.
Managing menstrual waste in the Andamans
With populations rising, changes in lifestyle, and increased tourism, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands face the challenge of managing waste, which can lead to serious health and ecological impacts. Let’s see how the village of Wandoor is keeping itself clean.
Meghalaya’s whistling village, where melody is the language
Kongthong, a unique village in Meghalaya, is known for its whistling tradition. Here residents communicate using personalised whistles instead of names. This distinctive practice, rooted in local culture, highlights the village’s deep connection to nature.
This youngster chose farming at 26
It is heartening to come across someone like Vikram Sagar, who has successfully made the leap from city life to full-time farming in native Coorg. Village Square chats with this young farmer who is transforming agriculture with innovative practices.
Muktsar’s Maghi Mela is a perfect blend of fun and devotion
In Punjab’s Sri Muktsar Sahib district, the day after Lohri is observed as Maghi, a time when people come out in full force to remember the sacrifice of 40 “muktas” who laid down their lives fighting the Mughals. Here’s more on the festival.
National Youth Day inspires rural young to dream big in 2025
As India celebrated National Youth Day on 12 January 2025, Village Square met the country’s rural youth to inquire about their aspirations for the new year. Hear them share their 2025 wishlist.
This new year, try bungee jumping in Bir
Head to the mountains to give your new year a jump-start, literally. Try out bungee jumping and sky cycling on your next trip to Bir, Himachal. Launched by a group of boys from the village in 2018, Tiger Team Adventures is a new addition to the handful of bungee sites in India.
The bangle heart of India
The story offers a vivid exploration of traditional craftsmanship in a bangle-making factory. It showcases the intricate processes and artistry involved in creating vibrant, ornate bangles, highlighting both the manual skills and tools essential to this art form.
TARAgram Yatra 2024: ‘Investing in the Local & Green’
The three-day TARAgram Yatra 2024, hosted by Development Alternatives (DA), took participants on an immersive tour of Bundelkhand, giving them an insight into rural India and its developmental programmes.