Village Vibe
Theagritechrevolution in India’s farm sector
Soil sensors, precision irrigation and AI-enabled apps – Indian farmers are becoming tech-savvy thanks to some innovative agritech interventions that are enabling the farm sector to modernise.
Indian gin tips hat to the Mahua flower
As the weather gets hot and urban Indians cool off with gin-and-tonics, one craft brand offers a tribal twist. Paying homage to the traditions of the ancient Baiga tribe, Mohulo Gin derives its flavour from the tribe’s cherished Mahua flower.
India’s Angkor Vat
Dating back to the 7th century, Unakoti is a treasure trove of rock carvings and murals in a sprawling forest in the state of Tripura. Thousands of pilgrims just flock to this destination to attend the annual Ashokastami Mela (fair) every April.
Incorporate Indian art in the contemporary living room
Art serves not just as a means of adorning a space, but also as conveying something about its inhabitants. To that end, here are some tips on how to use traditional art to enhance your living room, and make it a conversation starter.
Desi comics redefining rural humour
On World Laughter Day (May 4), we celebrate a unique breed of comedians—men and women from India’s villages—who are using smartphones, satire, and pure rural wit to spark laughter across the nation.
Moringa, the green gold
The moringa products market is booming and Indian farmers are cashing in on the demand by switching to cultivating the “superfood”.
Teen cricket star catapults Bihari village to fame
In a historic feat, 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi from Motipur village, Samastipur district, Bihar, became the youngest player to score a century in the Indian Premier League, putting his village in the national spotlight.
Rajasthani farm girl who’s an Insta sensation
At Village Square we want to showcase the best of vibrant village life and celebrate those doing the same. So this May Day we’re launching Village Square Influencer of the Month. With over 121K followers on Instagram, Ekta Saini charms her legion of fans with scenes from her Rajasthani farm life.
Mapping India’s arts and crafts heritage through G.I. Tags
In a land with great diversity in arts and crafts, a Geographical Indication (GI) tag goes a long way according to these art forms the recognition that is due to them. Here is the first of a two-part feature on India’s crafts, which have a GI tag.
Indus Waters Treaty in choppy waters
As diplomatic tensions between India and Pakistan rise, the future of a 64-year-old water agreement hangs in the balance, raising questions not only in political circles but in regions that rely on these rivers for sustenance. What will become of the treaty that has survived three wars?
Women-run historic homestays that captivate
The doors to these women-run B&Bs are thrown open to guests who enjoy living out of generations-old holiday homes, located near the attractions of the countryside.
Can India’s Nutrition Mission deliver?
Five years since the Poshan Abhiyaan began, India's villages remain at the heart of its success, and also failure. It is time we ask whether the policy tools are aligning with rural realities.
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.
Peninsular heritage bucket-list wonders
How many of these heritage sites in India’s Peninsular region have you seen? Well, for World Heritage Day 2025, we give you a handy list of rural and peri-urban sites not to miss from the southern states.
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.
Sopan Joshi: The mango is India’s memory drive
The mango grove, now rarely seen, was central to both rural and urban landscape in most parts of India since ancient times, says Sopan Joshi, author of Mangifera Indica: A Biography of the Mango.
Udvada, the Vatican of the miniscule Zoroastrian community
Udvada, a sleepy coastal village in Gujarat, is as constant as the North Star in the lives of the vibrant Zoroastrian community, which is on the brink of extinction.
Vishu, the rural Kerala way
Village Square set out on an exploratory journey, talking to people from different villages in Kerala to understand the varied nuances of Vishu celebrations.
This paragliding school in Kamshet is an exciting weekend getaway
From aspiring paramotor pilots to adventure junkies, this paragliding school in the Western Ghats has something for everyone.
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.