Abirpothi

Smriti Malhotra

Contributor

Magnificent Masks of Chhau: Tradition, Technique and Transformations

Chhau in Purulia and the Mask-Making Purulia, the westernmost district of West Bengal, boasts a stunning natural landscape with rivers winding through lush hills and dramatic rocky outcrops framing thunderous waterfalls. Amidst this natural beauty lies a rich historical tapestry, with countless ancient temples scattered across the district. Moreover, Purulia is renowned for its intangible […]

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Ganesha’s Iconography: A Multifaceted Journey from Mythology to Modernity (Part 2)

Symbolism in Ganesha’s Accessories The Broken Tusk (Ekadanta) One of the most prominent symbols associated with Ganesha is his broken tusk. According to mythology, Ganesha sacrificed his own tusk to use as a writing tool during the transcription of the epic Mahabharata. This act of self-sacrifice carries deep symbolic significance. It teaches us the value

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Stitching Stories, One Stitch at a Time: Tale of Bengal’s Kantha

The Roots of Kantha Embroidery The Kantha, a form of embroidery, thrives in 21st-century India, with around 50,000 women embroiderers engaging in what they call “ghore bosa kaaj” or home-based work. This rich tradition of embroidery traces its roots back millennia, as evidenced by archaeological finds of needles in the ancient cities of the Harappan

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Ganesha’s Iconography: A Multifaceted Journey from Mythology to Modernity (Part 1)

Introduction Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity, stands as an iconic and beloved figure in Hinduism and beyond. His distinctive form, replete with intricate symbolism, tells a story of mythology, spirituality, and cultural significance. In the tradition of Hindu deities, Ganesha holds a unique place, celebrated not only as the Remover of Obstacles but also as the

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Amol K Patil’s UK Debut: ‘The Politics of Skin and Movement’ at Hayward Gallery

Celebrating a Multifaceted Artistic Journey Amol K Patil, the conceptual and performance artist from Mumbai, is set to make his institutional solo debut in the United Kingdom with the exhibition titled ‘The Politics of Skin and Movement.’ The show is scheduled to open on October 11, 2023, at the Hayward Gallery’s HENI Project Space, marking

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Kottan Chronicles: Weaving the Story of Chettinad’s Palmyra Baskets

What are the Kottan Baskets of Chettinad? The Chettinad region, situated in the Sivagangai district of Tamil Nadu, Southern India, is renowned for its opulent mansions, ancient temples, and aromatic cuisine. This area encompasses not only the capital town of Karaikudi but also 74 surrounding villages, and it is the ancestral homeland of the Nattukottai

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Somaskanda Murthy: A Divine Union of Shiva, Parvati, and Skanda

Introduction Somaskanda Murthy, a significant and enigmatic deity in Hinduism, stands at the crossroads of divinity, symbolising the intricate matrix of life, spirituality, and cosmic unity. Within the sacred embrace of this divine triad lies a profound representation of the cosmic order, where Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, and their illustrious son, Lord Skanda, seamlessly merge

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From Divine Guardian to Spiritual Guide: The Enigmatic Nandi Bull in Hinduism

INTRODUCTION Hinduism, one of the world’s oldest and most diverse religions, is replete with a rich variety of symbols and icons that serve as profound sources of spiritual inspiration and wisdom. Among these sacred symbols, the Nandi bull stands as a prominent and revered figure, often found in Hindu temples across the Indian subcontinent. The

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5 Philosophies of Art You Should Know About

Introduction Art is a boundless subject that has enchanted humanity for millennia, functioning as a  crucial conduit for the articulation of thoughts, sentiments, and interpretations of the human experience.  This intricate and multifaceted subject has spurred countless debates among philosophers, artists, and scholars, giving rise to an array of philosophical perspectives that seek to decipher

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Re-evaluating the British Museum’s Role: A Dialogue on Colonial Artefacts and Ethical Obligations

Introduction The British Museum’s loss of 1,500 items, allegations of theft involving insiders, and the questions raised about its extensive collection’s origins have ignited a renewed discussion on the moral and ethical aspects of retaining artefacts acquired during the era of imperialism. In light of these developments, Professor Kavita Singh’s perspective becomes a critical lens

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