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
May – Photo of the Month
Our growing community of photographers is continuing to leave our jaws dropped with their stills. What’s particularly heartening is that we are receiving entries from every corner of India. Here are some of the fascinating photos from our Photo of the Month (May 2022) series.
How rural India toils – a glimpse
Rural India does not work 9-5. Villagers do not sit in cubicles tied to their gadgets. For this year’s May Day, otherwise known as Labour Day or International Workers’ Day , we give you a glimpse into how the working class in rural India toils. Thanks to our growing community of photographers across India, we bring you the colorful shades of labour on and off the field.
Kalbeliya beadwork hanging by a thread
Most famous for their ‘snake charmer’ dance, the Kalbeliya tribes have another precious legacy they are desperate to preserve and earn a livelihood from - the unique bead jewellery that is part of their costume.
India’s Earth Day heroes
From the farmers who turn barren land into lush forests to those who breed new, sustainable varieties of fruits (with fewer seeds to boot!) - India’s villages are bursting with eco-warriors who are investing in our planet. Join us as we salute them on Earth Day 2022.
Using puppet power to spread messages
Thol paavai koothu, the long but fading tradition of leather puppetry in Tamil Nadu, is reinventing itself by bringing awareness about the declining number of small animals and the importance of conservation.
April – Photo of the Month
We remain stunned by the quality and vitality our readers and supporters have when it comes to capturing rural India on camera. Have a look at the stunning snaps sent to us for our Photo of the Month series.
Is the art of Tibetans in India vanishing?
As children of Tibetan refugees in India seek greener pastures abroad, the once-flourishing Tibetan arts and crafts industry is suffering as there are fewer people interested in their religious handicrafts.
Leech therapy – alive and sucking in Kashmir
Despite being long abandoned as a medical cure by modern science, many people in the Kashmir Valley still let leeches suck their blood in hopes of curing everything from swollen joints and headaches to frostbite and acne.
Ancient Mayurbhanj Chhau dance steps up revival
The dramatic 19th century martial arts Mayurbhanj Chhau dance is stepping up its revival thanks to renewed patronage of an erstwhile royal family and government support.