Village Vibe celebrates the art, culture and festivals of India’s village life. Urbanites aren’t the only ones who become social media stars, produce stunning art, enjoy food fads or follow fitness crazes. And as for festivals, there’s a totally different vibe in the villages.
Village Vibe
Sarai Boda: The ‘Black Gold’ of Chhattisgarh’s Dhamtari forests
Chhattisgarh’s rare Sarai Boda or “black gold” is a type of mushroom that has humble origins on the forest floor. However, its uniquely seasonal availability has pushed up its demand and prices, too.
Village crime school in Madhya Pradesh grooms next generation of thieves
Kadiya village seems plucked from the pages of a Dickensian novel, but crime here is a profession, taught and executed, as parents hand over their children to local gangs that teach them the dark arts of pickpocketing, bag-snatching, and deceit.
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.
Talao village: A rural tourism success story
Village Talao in Haryana’s Jhajjar district attracts over 65,000 tourists annually to its cultural hub Pratapgarh Farms. It serves as a lesson in how sustainable tourism can craft a story of hope and progress for its community.
The silent scream of Noh Ka Likai falls
Behind the breathtaking beauty of India's tallest plunge waterfall lies a heart-wrenching story, one that gives a sorrowful depth to its stunning cascade.
This Maha village was once a haven for Polish immigrants
In a world often divided by conflict, Valivade’s story is a powerful reminder of humanity’s capacity for compassion. It’s a tale of how a small village in Maharashtra became a beacon of hope and safety for thousands of Polish people.
This couple’s farm promises an escape from the city
Shakti and Ila Lumba, who quit the city to live in district Faridabad’s village Mangar, known for its sacred grove, opened their farm to guests in 2008. Since then, they have worked with locals to improve their living conditions and showcased village life to guests.
In Stree 2’s Chanderi, veil between history and horror is gossamer thin
Bollywood horror-comedy Stree 2 puts the cinematic spotlight on Kati Ghati gate, a massive stone structure steeped in legend and mystery in Madhya Pradesh’s Chanderi, a small town renowned for its delicate sarees.
A chocolaty Christmas, rooted in India
Looking for some sweet treats for your loved ones during Christmas? Look no further because here are some of the finest farm-to-bar chocolates from India. About time Swiss and Belgian chocolates took a break.