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
Offbeat rural destinations in India
At Village Square we love delving into the more unknown and vibrant regions of rural India, so for World Tourism Day we offer up some of our favourite stories and places to add to your “must see” list.
Rajasthan’s rural life museum enchants visitors
Nicknamed "Jhaadu Museum" for the variety of brooms on display, the Arna Jharna Museum in Rajasthan showcases how culture and food connect through basic objects used in everyday life.
Safaris drive up Bastar tourism
A group of Chhattisgarh youth invest in sports utility vehicles to offer safari rides inside the Kanger Valley National Park, gaining an income and boosting tourism in Bastar.
Kargil’s apricot “miracle drink” – phatxingu
People in Ladakh’s Kargil region believe phatxingu, a beverage made from apricots, is not just a drink that gives them a healthy, long life but is a “cure-all” for health problems too.
Do “reel villages” in cinema show real rural India?
In the past villages in films were either idyllic or hopeless. But the present day productions are more realistic, bridging the gap between urban and rural perspectives.
Food security improved by women’s groups in MP
Involving women self-help groups in the public distribution of food in Madhya Pradesh is strengthening food security, according to a development worker with Transform Rural India Foundation.
Tribal girl goes from athlete to village leader
Bhagyashree Lekami was focused on entering the sports profession until the people in her village made her head of the panchayat. Now she tries to ensure her village progresses, from winning workers’ confidence to busting vaccine hesitancy.
Famed Kashmiri carpets knotted for new parliament
Renowned Kashmiri carpets are being specially made for India's new parliament building, giving a boost to the region's famous crafts industry.
September-Photo of the month
We are back with the magical photos that give us a glimpse into villages of India. With the quantity and quality of pictures skyrocketing, here are our picks for Photo of the Month - September.