National Handloom Day – Importance of Handlooms & Weavers

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August 7, 2025

The National Handloom Day was celebrated a few days back on 7^th August. I am sure when each one of us think of handlooms, we conjure up some image, event or memory with it. For instances, whenever I think of handlooms, I immediately remember the roadside stall named as the Handloom Emporium stacked with colorful and unique items. The open stall unlike any high end fashion or utility store always captured my imagination and till date if I pass through the road, I either stop by or quickly glance through to check out the products. Similarly, one can also associate handloom markets during exhibitions where stalls are lined with bags, mats, décor items, curtains, mattresses, cushion covers and so on.

Why is the National Handloom Day celebrated?

7^th August holds a special significance. It was in 1905 on 7^th August that the Swadeshi Movement acquired momentum. With the Bengal partition, a formal proclamation came about at the Calcutta Town Hall that boycotted all foreign made goods. The idea was to concentrate and encourage local products. The government in 2015 introduced the National Handloom Day to stimulate and acknowledge weavers and local artisans. This year marked the 6th celebration which was carried out through online mediums.

But before we move further, let’s dwell a bit on understanding the handlooms better.

What does handloom mean?

Handloom-Day — Image – Ingodesigng5 via Flickr

A handloom essentially means any other loom besides the powerloom. However, in 2012 this definition was expanded to also incorporate the hybrid loom where at least one weaving process requires manual or human intervention.

There are basically three different kinds of looms that weavers use manually. They are the pit looms, stand loom and frame loom. Yarn is the ‘thread’ that is used to make the cloth or fabric. The dyeing of the yarn is an important activity before actual weaving or looming. The texture of the hand woven fabric varies from that of a mill or machine made fabric.

Difference between Handloom Fabric and Khadi

A handloom is the loom that the weavers use without any electricity. The fabric that is woven on handlooms using hand spun yarn is called khadi. On the other hand, the yarn that is spun in mills and woven on handloom is called handloom fabrics.

Popular Handloom Fabrics Across States

Now that we know the technical definition of what handlooms mean let’s move a step further. Let’s take a look at the different handlooms of India across the different states. There are of course, many more, but highlighting some below.

1. Kanjeevaram – Tamil Nadu

Originating in Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu the Kanjeevaram sarees are one of the most popular handloom products. The sarees can sometimes take up to 6 months to be made and are usually worn on special occasions, such as weddings.

2. Ikat – Odisha

Indian Handloom-Ikat — Image – RubyGoes via Flickr

Though the Ikat art is woven across the country, it is most concentrated in Odisha. It is usually the members of the Bhulia and Meher community who for generations have mastered this weaving art. The culture of the land is often depicted in the patterns and designs.

3. Kalamkari – Andhra Pradesh

One of the oldest weaving arts, the Kalamkari fabrics flourished the most during the Mughal era. Today the fabric is well known for its block and hand painted designs.

4. Banarasi Brocade Work – Uttar Pradesh

Banarasi sarees are very popular products woven by the handloom weavers in Varanasi. The weavers weave silver and gold into the fabric creating a piece of magical proportions. The banarasi saree still remains one of the most sought after wardrobe treasures.

5. Bandhani and Patan Patola – Gujarat

Bandhani uses the method of ‘tie and dye’ and is practiced in both Rajasthan and Gujarat. With circular and square motifs the bandhani fabrics exude bright colors. The patan patola, on the other hand, is made from silk. Originating in the town of Patan in Gujarat the weavers work for months before the final product is creating. This method also involves both dying and weaving techniques.

6. Bhagalpuri Silk – Bihar

Bhagalpur is known for producing one of the finest silk of the country. The fabric is made from the tussar cocoons and is most famous in the form of Bhagalpuri sarees.

Some of the other handloom arts include, pachachuli weaving from Uttarakhand, pachra from Tripura, Lepcha from Sikkim, panja durries from Haryana, kosa silk weaving from Chhatisgarh, muga silk weaving from Assam, chikankari, zardozi, gota and many.

Some facts About Indian Handlooms

The handloom industry is the second largest employment sector after agriculture in rural India.
It has more than 4.3 million people involved either directly or indirectly.
There are about 2.4 million looms of different kinds that power the industry.
Almost 15% of cloth production in the country comes from the handloom industry.
Hand woven cloths or fabrics from India account for 95% of the world’s production of hand woven fabric.
The handloom industry also has a flourishing export market. The export of handloom products in 2019 was at a value of US $ 343.69 million.

(Source: ibef.org)

The All India Handloom Board (AIHB)

The All India Handloom Board was set up in 1992. It included government officials, as well as representatives of the handloom industry including weavers and experts. The government in a move that has both riled and surprised handicraft experts abolished the AIHB and the All India Handicrafts Board only a few days before the National Handloom Day. According to the government this move was in line with its vision of ‘Minimum Government and Maximum Governance’. The boards however, were the direct link between the weavers and artisans on ground.

#vocal4handmade

This year the Union Minister of Textiles, Smriti Irani tweeted the #vocal4handmade hashtag and encouraged to ‘bring home handmade in India.’ The idea is to roll out the concept of Atmanirbharta or being self-reliance and pitching for products Made in India. A lot of celebrities and citizens posted their pictures and various information or anecdotes encouraging the weavers and artists of the handloom industry.

The Paradox

Where on one hand, the handloom products are sold very locally, on the other the fabrics are also used by popular designers. We have a huge handloom export market and some of the top designers of the country also incorporate and encourage the handloom wears. Popular Bollywood stars, such as Rekha, Vidya Balan and Deepika Padukone are often seen carrying off handloom garments with ease and style.

And hence, the fate of the handloom industry oscillates between the two ends. The number of local weavers has seen a decline with the new generation opting for other professions due to the decreasing returns in the occupation of their forefathers. Villagers account for how where once almost every other household had a loom, but today only a few homes remain that still practice the art of weaving. Due to the stiff competition from machine made products at much cheaper rates, the handloom industry has witnessed a gradual fall. The condition of the weavers which were once hailed and respected during the times of royalty and kings is relegated to cheap labor. The increased cost of raw materials, lack in credit facilities and poor infrastructure has also impacted the handloom industry.

Yes, there are various schemes, in fact more than 10 by the government for the weavers. Yet, there is very little change that it has managed to bring about on the ground. Thankfully there are also many NGO’s that are taking it upon themselves to promote the handloom industry. Also technology and the online marketplaces dedicated sometimes exclusively to handlooms and handicrafts have also been a big plus to the industry. The handloom industry has its own niche market and people are increasingly more aware of the skill and hard work that goes into making a handmade product. Connoisseurs of art and people associated with the textile or fashion industry are making efforts to revive and market the handloom products. And the consumer is also acknowledging the uniqueness of these products. However, there is the need to further uplift and empower these skilled artisans.

The Handloom Industry during COVID

The present times have not been easy for many. The weavers are no different as the handloom industry has been hit badly and the desperation of the weavers has only been heightened by the COVID pandemic. With businesses falling and market places shut down the local artisans are grappling to sell their products. Also, usually rural exhibitions and bazaars were held from January to June every year helping the local handloom goods find a viable marketplace. Due to the current pandemic and social distancing norms, this door has shut too.

Takeaways

What can you do to encourage the handloom industry? How can we as ordinary people play a role in sustaining our weavers and artisans?

For those who can afford, buying authentic handloom products will not only sustain the local weavers, but also help in preserving and encouraging the art itself. Sharing and spreading the word, buying local made products and opting for handloom arts, if not always, at least often can also push the industry forward. There are handloom brands, such as Fab India, Ethicus, Upasana, Angadi Gallery and more. There are also various online shopping platforms, such as Weavesmart, Gaatha, itokri and more. In the end, our weavers and local artisans will only feel empowered when consumers show them the love, financial support and respect that they deserve.

End of an Era: India Bids Farewell to 50 Years of Mail Delivery

By

Nagaraj

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August 7, 2025

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India has formally closed the mail delivery system of red post boxes which was working over more than 50 years. The centuries old system of handwritten letters sent across the country through postmen in khaki uniforms and carrying canvas bags is history now. To most Indians this is not just the end of a service, but an end of an era.

Handwritten Letters to Digital Text

There was a time when a postman’s knock brought happiness and good news. Exam results, wedding invitations, job offer letters, rakhi sent by sisters and even money orders were carried in letters. Postmen were not only messengers in the country, but they became community people, reading letters too, filling in forms, or handing the letter.

Today, with smartphones and internet access communication happens instantly. The inland letters are substituted by email. WhatsApp and social media made long distance relationships easy with everyday talks. The magic of getting a real letter slowly started to evaporate and the previously developed system of mail delivery started reducing.

India Post, under the Ministry of Communications, is one of the world’s oldest and largest postal networks. Formally founded in 1854, it became a giant with more than 1.5 lakh post offices, of which majority were in rural areas. Millions depended on the mail delivery system especially after the 1970s. Postmen used to walk in the forest, cross rivers and walk miles to deliver one piece of paper.

The service was particularly important where telephones were a luxury. The soldiers could only communicate to their families through letters, the students could only keep in touch with their parents through it while families living miles apart would be connected with it.

Reason for the Shutdown?

The official withdrawal of the regular mail delivery system did not happen overnight. Over the last twenty years, the volumes of mail have reduced drastically. The COVID-19 pandemic boosted the digital move. Even the government communication, which was initially delivered using the post, is now largely done using SMS, email or digital portals.

Moreover, logistics and e-commerce have become completely different in today’s digital age. The parcel services have shifted to courier companies and app-based deliveries. Due to this the India Post had started to focus on banking services, logistics support, and digital financial inclusion via its India Post Payments Bank.

Because of this change, the original purpose of the letter-carrying postman was becoming non-functional. The frequency of mail delivery has fallen to once a week or less in many places. As the result, the operating costs increased and returns dropped, the government could not do anything more than officially shutting down the service.

Conclusion

Although the delivery of mails has increased, India Post is not shutting down but it’s transforming. The postal department is serving as a help center in various ways with services such as doorstep banking, Aadhaar updates, parcel services and rural digital outreach.

Nevertheless, to the people who have had experience in the pre-digital era, the end of the old-style mail delivery is a sentimental farewell. In this world that is charging towards faster, sleeker communication, maybe we have also lost a little bit of patience, warmth and the human touch that letters used to have. The postman will not be knocking twice anymore-but his memory will.

Varnapakittu: Kozhikode to Host Transgender Arts Festival

By

Cscope Staff

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August 6, 2025

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In an impressive step towards inclusion and cultural visibility, Kozhikode, Kerala is all geared to host the first-ever Transgender Arts Festival. This is for providing a dynamic space to the trans artists to portray their creativity, culture and voice. This festival aims that the art is everyone, and each identity should be visible, audible and celebrated.

Expression and Empowerment

Over the years, the transgender people have struggled to get recognition and validation. Although there is a law about transgender rights, there are not many opportunities in the arts to be used by transgender people. It is an opportunity given to trans artists to shine, in the spotlight without fear and prejudice.

With dance and music, painting, theatre and even speeches, the event will feature a wide range of acts and displays that capture the life experiences, struggles, joys, and talents of the community. Every performance is a narrative of identity, transformation and resilience, and pride.

About the event

The local governments and cultural groups have joined forces to achieve this. Supported by the Kerala Social Justice Department, the event integrates into the vision of the state of gender justice and equal opportunities of every individual.

The most interesting thing about such a festival is that it is not an occasion aimed at creating space for performances but creating acceptance and change. Panel discussions, workshops, and community art projects will also take place where all the individuals are expected to listen, learn, and understand the trans community on a deeper level.

Detail	Information
Venue	Town Hall, Kozhikode
Address	Mananchira, Kozhikode, Kerala – 673001
Event Dates	To Be Announced – Stay tuned to local news for updates

Transforming the society

The ability of art to bring changes in society has never changed. It enables human beings to interact despite language, faith or gender obstacles. This festival is supposed to break the stereotypes and eliminate the social stigma usually faced by transgender. Seeing how serious talent and expression can be expressed with art can change the hearts and minds of people in a manner that creates change in the society.

Most of the performers and artists in this festival are performing on such a big stage for the first time. This festival is not a display to them but it is an opportunity for trans people to be validated and to be celebrated. It also offers visibility and careers which are very important to empowerment.

Kozhikode is becoming an example to other cities and states by putting trans voices to the center. This would definitely become a cultural event of the year that might promote diversity, break barriers and celebrate the beauty of being oneself.

Do Plan a visit

This is not only an invitation to enjoy a show, but to reconsider the concept of inclusion, the idea on how to acknowledge the talents that have no spotlight, and to create some bridges by means of art and compassion. By embracing this revolutionary festival, Kozhikode conveys a message that goes beyond the state of Kerala. It shows that all voices are heard, all stories are worth sharing, and all people belong.

May this be a cultural change moment of festivals such as this becoming the standard and not the exception. Come and join such a great movement. Not only a festival but a celebration of courage, identity and unity by means of art.

Government of India Takes Steps to Promote Classical Dances in School

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Cscope Staff

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August 5, 2025

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A trend towards re-establishing India as a society with a rich cultural heritage, the Government of India has embarked on a new initiative to introduce classical dance teaching in school. Indian classical dances, such as Bharatatyam, Kathak, Odissi, Manipuri, Kuchipudi, Sattriya, and Chhau, are finding their place in classrooms through a mix of educational reforms and cultural outreach programs. In the process, the future generations are not only taught the dance steps, but stories, values and identities too. This initiative is led by the Ministry of Culture with the support of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Under this schools are becoming the places where historic culture exists along with scholarly endeavors.

Why is Classical Dancing Necessary?

With a holistic approach to schooling today, there is an increasing awakening that dancing can become more than an after school activity. It develops discipline, creativity, confidence, and emotional intelligence which are necessary functionalities in life. Its motivation by the government to add classical dance into school curriculum and events guarantees that children get the chance to learn about the richness of Indian culture.

The Kala Dharohar

Kala Dharohar is an initiative by the Sangeet Natak Akademi. It is a project that seeks to make classical dance an active force in schools. In line with this programme, students get acquainted with the basics of various classical dance styles by the means of performances, interactive communication, and workshops. All these experiences create interest not only in art but also allow developing talent in art at a young age.

A significant part of this mission is played by the Centre for Cultural Resources and Training (CCRT). Through the conduction of outreach programmes, training, and cultural awareness sessions, CCRT is able to certify that thousands of students in the nation get practical exposure to Indian performing arts.

Scholarships Programs

The Cultural Talent Search Scholarship Scheme (CTSSS) is a special scholarship that supports young students to become trained classical dancers aged between 10 and 14 years. In the program, every student is entitled to an annual allowance that is aimed to support their learning process. During the tour of the academic year 2024-25, 269 students were chosen in classical dance scholarships. This is a significant increase in the number of students as compared to previous years.

The Process of Developing Cultural Confidence

The decision to introduce classical dance in the school life is not just a good option to look after the culture, rather it is a good way to change the approach to communities in the way students perceive themselves. Dance needs rhythm, co-ordination, and self-expression. In addition, the classroom will be a platform to learn dance. The children will perform together under a common rhythm and tradition.

As India is switching to a more culture oriented educational system, incorporation of classical dance is a good decision in the right direction. To build off of this, schools have the ability to:

Establish special interest cultural clubs and practice dance once a week
Bring in local gurus/artists of dancing to mentor students
Promote student performance in annual functions and festivals
Teach using online tutorials and masterclasses

Final Thought

The focus on promoting classical dance in schools isn’t just about art but it’s about identity, inclusiveness, and national pride. By making classical dance a part of education, it is giving students the tools to connect with their culture while shaping a more expressive, confident, and culturally aware future. In every pose, every mudra, and every rhythmic beat, our culture finds its way back into the hearts of the next generation.

51-Foot Tallest Shri Ram Murti by Naresh Kumar Kumawat Inaugurated in Canada

By

Cscope Staff

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August 5, 2025

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Gurugram- 05 August, 2025— In a proud moment for Indian art and spirituality on the global stage, a 51-foot tall statue of Bhagwan Shri Ram has been inaugurated at the Hindu Heritage Centre in Mississauga, Canada. Sculpted by Naresh Kumar Kumawat, one of India’s most respected monumental artists, the murti now holds the distinction of being the tallest statue of Bhagwan Shri Ram in North America.

Designed and crafted in Matu ram Art Center, Gurugram using a steel frame, this 51-foot tall statue stands atop a 7-foot pedestal. The statue is inspired from Shri Ram’s ideals of righteousness, compassion, and dharma, embodying his timeless role in shaping Indian cultural and spiritual ethos; reflecting intricate craftsmanship and deep spiritual symbolism. Built to last over 100 years and withstand strong winds, the statue is both a cultural emblem and a feat of modern sculpture engineering.

The unveiling ceremony was marked by a grand celebration that included a 1.9 km shobha yatra (parade), traditional Vedic rituals, cultural programs, and distribution of prasad for all visitors. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from local leaders, dignitaries, and members of the Indian diaspora, underlining the statue’s significance as a beacon of Indian heritage abroad.

Speaking on the occasion, Naresh Kumar Kumawat, said, “This sculpture is not merely an artwork, it’s a spiritual bridge connecting continents and generations”. He further added, “To see Bhagwan Shri Ram’s divine presence elevated to this scale in North America is incredibly humbling. My greatest hope is that this murti becomes a timeless symbol of devotion, cultural pride, and unity, inspiring future generations of Indians and admirers of Indian heritage across the world”.

Naresh Kumar Kumawat is renowned globally for his monumental sculptures that blend artistic excellence with historical depth. His works spanning Indian mythology, freedom movements, and cultural identity are installed across more than 80 countries, establishing him as a key figure in modern Indian public art.

The installation of the Shri Ram murti in Mississauga is yet another milestone in Kumawat’s storied career, honoring India’s timeless spiritual values while reaffirming the power of art to transcend borders.

64th National Exhibition of Art Unfolds Vibrant Indian Art Storie

By

Cscope Staff

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August 5, 2025

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64th-National-Exhibition-of-Art-01 — Courtest – Lalit Kala Akademi

It is the time of artistic energy in the city of New Delhi as the 64 th National Exhibition of Art opened its doors at Rabindra Bhavan in the city hosted by Lalit Kala Akademi. This exhibition is held between August 6 and September 15, 2025, New Delhi. The centre of India gets its cultural hub where one can witness the most vibrant of visual arts and talents of the country in terms of painting, photography, sculpture, print-making and experimentation. More than just an art show, this annual celebration is a reflection upon the creative diversity in India and each wall, each corner and even each canvas speaks of a tale.

About the exhibition

This year, the figures were huge, almost 5,900 entries poured in from all over India, and out of this number, the illustrious group of jury selected 283 artworks. From the nostalgic landscapes to the sharp crisp contemporary themes, the show offers viewers the precious experience of how the Indian artistic style has evolved through the ages under a single roof.

The variety in the art mediums are equally spectacular. There are paintings that meld folk art with contemporary abstraction, photographs that capture fragments of life in rural backdrops, and in urban confusion, and sculpture that tests the limits of form and material. The exhibition is a visual communication of the past and present, tradition and innovation.

Notable Paintings

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A post shared by Aashima Mehrotra (@mehrotraaashima_art)

One notable artwork of this year’s show is that of Aashima Mehrotra, a senior officer in the Indian Railway whose work, Laapata Ladies, which features in the prestigious exhibition is one of the unique stories being told. Mehrotra is a painter by passion whose works are based on Indian philosophy and cultural representations. It is also evident that artistic creativity can be accomplished even with the hectic schedules of demanding work. It is a good piece of motivation in the visual artworld and is made available to everyone who has the heartfelt desire to dream and to create art.

Celebration of Art

Lalit Kala Akademi Awards are also to be given to 20 outstanding artists during the opening ceremony of the exhibition. The reward is Rs. 2,00,000 cash, a shawl, and award citation. These awards are not just recognition but they honour skill and devotion. The winners are selected by a 2-tier jury of senior artists, curators, and critics that use a transparent and considerate selection process. This award is one of the most respected awards within the visual art scene in India.

Public Invitation

Event	Details
Art Exhibition	64th National Exhibition of Art
Dates	August 6th to September 15th, 2025
Time	11:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Daily)
Venue	Lalit Kala Akademi Gallery, Rabindra Bhavan, New Delhi
Organised By	Lalit Kala Akademi, Ministry of Culture, Government of India
Entry Fee	Free and Open to All
Highlight	Features selected artworks from across India in various mediums—painting, sculpture, printmaking, and more.

It is a daily exhibition, which takes place between 11:00 AM and 7.00 PM and is free for everyone. If you enjoy art and you just got interested, this is your chance to savor the soul of the Indian artistry be it the paintings or other media works.

Why This Exhibition is Important

The 64th National Exhibition of Art is a strike down thoughts of digital distractions or in a world where digital technology reigns supreme, a heart warming reminder of the strength of visual paintings. It not only gives credit to popular names, but also unknown talents in the various creative corners of India.

The current one is particularly inclusive, innovative, and culturally rooted. It demonstrates to us that Indian art is never fixed. It has life, it possesses no fear and it is constantly renewing itself. Then, don’t skip this immersive experience of witnessing great art ans appriciating it.

Bihar Sand Artist Madhurendra Kumar Receives London World Record Honour

By

Cscope Staff

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August 4, 2025

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Bihar-Sand-Artist-Madhurendra-Kumar-Receives-London-World-Record-Honour-01A — Image – Madhurendra Kumar/FB

Madhurendra Kumar, a sand artist of Motihari, Bihar, has put his name in history that marks recognition of innovation and culture in a creative way. In London, he was recently honoured by the London Book of World Records as the first Indian sand artist to get this record. His success is not only personal but a proud moment for Bihar, India and the rest of the world.

Madhurendra Kumar; The Artist

The thing that makes Madhurendra Kumar so special is not only his skill as an artist but also the intent of his works. His art does not just please the eyes, it has social messages. His artistic career spans over several years, and as such, he has made over 5,000 works of art using sand and leaves. These creations explore themes such as peace, brotherhood, nature and the environment, nationalism, and global unity. Each grain of sand in his artwork reflects meticulous artistic intent and thoughtful expression. His art also invokes people to think about important things. By using natural and biodegradable mediums, Madhurendra makes his art sustainable as well and reinforces the necessity to go back to our roots, the roots of the art profession and the roots of ethics.

London’s Historic Moment

The winners receiving the awards in the British parliament do not need explaining. There, the International President of the London Book of World Records, Dr. Avinash, D. Saklani, and the representative of the European Union Dr. Ivan Gasina officially presented Madhurendra with a medal, certificate, and citation. They commended his work as creating an international mark but at the same time maintaining a traditional and local approach to his stories.

The organisers emphasised the significance of the fact that Madhurendra is not only bridging the gap between art and activism but also introducing Indian folk inspired nature art to global platforms. His combination of sand and leaf painting was termed as a special paradigm of diffusing social peace and cultural diversity.

International Recognition

The painting by Madhurendra passed through a poll of opinion surveys of a dozen countries across the world including USA, Canada, Germany, Russia, China, and Sri Lanka before this award. His performance is well rated making him the leading artist among the foreign artiste and bettering several big names of worldwide recognition. Such a powerful global support highlights how visual art can bridge the language and nationalism barriers when it reaches people.

In India, he was regarded with admiration for his achievement. Union Minister Ramdas Athawale congratulated him as it was a proud moment for India. Since then, various political players, cultural leaders and art lovers have expressed gratitude to Madhurendra for his work in the development of Indian art and social awareness.

Him being honoured at the British Parliament is not only a story of fame, but also an excellent example of resilience, purpose, and believing in the power of creativity. Madhurendra is the inspiration of many young artists in rural and semi-urban India who believe that their talent can take them all the way to global forums when it is nurtured in the right spirit.

Conclusion

This honour is a great milestone, but it is just the start of another long and meaningful future success that Madhurendra Kumar will undertake. As more people become aware of his work and start following him, he will be able to further use art to engage in a dialogue, to initiate change, and promote the ideals of peace and sustainability.

‘āranyaka’: A Solo Exhibition by Arunima Choudhury

By

Cscope Staff

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August 4, 2025

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āranyaka’A Solo Exhibition by Arunima Choudhury-01 — Image Courtest – Emamiart.com

A Journey into Nature and Memory

Kolkata, August 2025 – Emami Art presents āranyaka: Arunima Choudhury’s Recent Works on Nature, a deeply immersive solo exhibition by veteran artist Arunima Choudhury. Running from June 27 to August 9, 2025, the show offers a contemplative look at the artist’s connection to nature through handmade paper, eco-prints, and textile-based compositions.

Event Detail	Description
Exhibition Title	āranyaka: Arunima Choudhury’s Recent Works on Nature
Artist	Arunima Choudhury
Venue	Emami Art, Kolkata Centre for Creativity
Location	777, Anandapur EM Bypass, Kolkata
Dates	June 27 – August 9, 2025
Timings	11:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Closed on Sundays)
Admission	Free Entry
Public Programme	August 2, 2025 – Artist Talk with Arunima Choudhury, Samik Bandyopadhyay & Soumik Nandy Majumdar

The Meaning Behind ‘āranyaka’

The collection is also called ‘Āranyaka’, which means “of the forest” in Sanskrit, a title that resonates with Arunima’s her childhood spent in the tea estates and hills of North Bengal. Her pieces are created with earth-toned dies, made of leaf impressions and plant-dyed fabrics that are not just visual works but living memoirs of the natural world.

The Eco-Printing Process

Choudhury uses the eco-printing process to boil leaves, flowers and natural dyes before they are placed on rice paper and cotton for a direct transfer of organic forms. It seems as though eucalyptus, rose petals, ferns and bark leave behind soft, abstract impressions that she enhances with brushwork, charcoal, or hand-stitching. Each piece is a quiet composition of memory, time, and fragility.

Themes of Loss, Regeneration, and Quiet Resilience

The exhibition is not overtly political, but the environmental undertone is unmistakable. These themes are further explored in the new series including disappearing, surviving and existing within nature and their unique resistance to modernity. Some works reference ecological loss with faded imprints and earthy textures, while others offer symbols of regeneration, healing, or even metaphorical life.

Blending Art with Botanical Exploration

Choudhury started experimenting with DIY pigments from natural materials in 2006. She follows a practice of drawing that is inseparable from the work she does in her garden; her sketchbooks contain detailed notes on plants, mineral dyes and colour combinations. This scientific curiosity, fused with artistic intuition, gives her work a sense of authenticity and rootedness.

A Meditative Viewing Experience

The set design for the exhibition invites viewers to spend their time inside. Paper scrolls, botanical prints on translucent cloth, delicate layers of pigment create a rhythm of presence and absence. Instead of visual spectacle, the focus is on texture, material, and intimate discovery.

Artist Talk and Public Interaction

As part of the exhibition, Emami Art will host a public conversation on August 2, featuring Arunima Choudhury in discussion with noted art critic Samik Bandyopadhyay and art historian Soumik Nandy Majumdar. The session aims to unpack her artistic language, her material choices, and her lifelong relationship with nature.

A Life of Art and Reflection

Arunima Choudhury Born in 1960, Arunima had a five-decade journey. Trained at the Indian College of Arts & Draftsmanship and later at Chitrabani in graphic design; always worked across multiple disciplines such as painting, installation, collage and now textile-based work. Past exhibitions like The Dark Edge of Green (2022) and Nature As I See (2020) provided more rigid boundaries around these themes. Āranyaka instead emphasizes softness, slowness and organic language.

An Ecological Aesthetic for the Present

In an era of mounting environmental catastrophe, Choudhury’s work constitutes a quiet form of activism. Rather than dramatic gestures, her art offers tender reflection. Her methods — natural dyes, botanical printing, handmade materials — are not simply design decisions but an entire sustainability and earth-loving ethos.

Conclusion: A Forest of Memory

āranyaka is more than an exhibition; it is a gentle act of remembrance. Through stains, silhouettes, and silences, Arunima Choudhury constructs a forest of memory—one that invites us to notice, pause, and reconnect. Her art doesn’t demand attention; it rewards those who give it.

10 Reasons why Friendship is the Best Bond Ever

By

Caleidoscope

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August 3, 2025

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thoughts on friendship — Image – Juliana Coutinho/Flickr

Friendship is a kind of relation that requires a lot of honesty, trust, and understanding between two people. It is difficult to imagine a life without friends in it. The very thought of your friends leaving you will make you scared. Such is the significance of this beautiful bond. Without friendship, the world is incomplete.

Every relation has its own significance, but friendship certainly stands out from the rest with its unique charm. As a part of our friendship week, we bring to you 10 reasons why friendship is the best bond ever.

1. A bond that can’t be replaced

Friendship is one special bond that you cannot replace with any other bond. The kind of connection you have with your friends will not be found in any other relationship. It is something unique that links two people who look out for each other.

2. It nurtures you as a person

There is a lot more to friendship than spending time together, or just having fun. It is a kind of bond that gives life to your soul. A friend is someone who doesn’t just support you in most of the things, but also brings positivity into your life.

3. A relation where there’s no place for ego.

More often than not, we fight with our friends for unnecessary reasons or misunderstand each other. But, what is friendship without reconciliation? Overlooking the mistakes and resolving issues without any ego are some of the usual things in friendship.

4. In friendship, there is no place for pretending

Friendship is something where you need not pretend. You can simply be yourself, and no one will ever judge you for that. You can be with your friends all day in messy buns and baggy clothes, but they won’t question you because they might be the same as you. So pretending is never the rule.

5. It is a relation which can be many other things

Friendship is the only relation where we can act like siblings, best friends, well-wishers, parents and sometimes, lovers as well. After all, friends are the people who can put up with any role to make you happy.

6. Friends are the people who become your full-time support

Friendship is not just about doing some crazy stuff together, but also supporting friends during their hard times. There is a great saying- “You come to know who is your friend in the times of suffering only”. A friend who stays with you when everything is fine isn’t your true friend; a true friend is someone who supports you like a pillar even when the times are hard.

7. It is the bond of expression

Friendship is quite expressive. Friends are often experts in expressing emotions that do not require any spoken words. Friends know each other so well that they can easily make out what their friend’s next action could be.

8. It helps you find your true worth

Friends are the first ones you’ll turn to after something bad like a breakup or a failed interview. They will be the ones to cheer you up and make you realize what you truly are, both physically and emotionally.

9. Friends are the ones whom we can rely on

Friends are those people in our lives, with whom we are at extreme ease. We are comfortable enough to share our darkest secrets, joys and sorrows with them. We know we can rely on these people, no matter what, BetterHelp online therapy support offers a safe space to share and navigate complex emotions, complementing the trust and care found in friendships.

10. It is a relation that only gets stronger as time flies

With time, friendship can only get stronger because you get to know your friends better with each passing day and appreciate the same with all your heart. You tend to love them without any reason and eventually realize that your world becomes much more beautiful with their presence in it.

The most valuable gift in a person’s life is a sincere friendship. The individual who in his life meets a real friend is thought to be very fortunate. Despite having other important things in life, a good friendship is very crucial to the life of a person. No one can live a completely fulfilled life if he does not have trustworthy connections. Everyone needs a good and loyal companion to share the good, bad and ugly.

Friendship is a dedicated sense of affection that allows us to share and care for each other. A friend is someone who without hesitation understands and appreciates others. True friends are never greedy, they try to better each other in their lives. There is no distinction between boundaries or ages, between caste, race, religion or sex. You know the truth about each other and support each other completely.

Final Thought

Friends can be good as well as terrible, good friends can change your life and bad friends pursue the wrong route, so one should be careful in choosing. Awful companions can be quite bad for us as they are sufficient to damage our life altogether. Often because of their own ego or self-esteem friendships break down. There should be a good understanding, satisfaction, sense of comfort and trust in true friendship.

Friendship Day Quotes

So, we hope you like these incredible friendship quotes, whether you want to commemorate your friendships or just recall why you love your friends so much.

“A good friend glances over your damaged fence and appreciates the beautiful flowers”

“True friends who can grow separately without growing apart is the most beautiful revelation”

“Each friend represents a world in us, a world that probably doesn’t come to life until they approach us”

“A true friend is somebody who sees anguish in your eyes when everyone else focuses on the smile”

“Anybody can sympathize with the sufferings of a friend, but it requires a very fine nature to sympathize with a friend’s success.” – Oscar Wilde

“To have a friend, one has to be a friend”

“True ties are not determined by the time or favours spent together. But through comfort, when you know that you have each other”

“Real friends are not those who remove your difficulties. They are the ones that will not disappear when you face hardships”

“Good friends are like diamonds — bright, beautiful, valuable, and always in style.” – Nicole Richie

“The one who believes in you, when you stop believing in yourself, is a loyal friend”

Good friends are crucial for your mental health and for your quality of life. They can increase your sense of belonging and purpose. It is inseparable to live and to love. Friendship is a chance to admire, learn about yourself, become mature and open up to a completely new life experience.

International Friendship Day: Why, How, and the Stories Behind It

By

Jebeen Thahir

-

August 3, 2025

2

Friendship is a word that is so simple, but has much emotion, trust, and companionship. Friends make us feel good, and companionship is part of our lives whether it is the childhood friend who held our hand during embarrassing years at school, or the colleague a friend has become, to make long days of work easier. They are the select family who provide help, humor, and consolation with none of the judgment.

International Friendship Day is a very important occasion celebrated in most parts of the world that should be respected not only as an opportunity to send memes to friends or make outing plans but to actually appreciate the bonds that are important in life and to them. However, what is this day and how did it become so popular around the world? So, what is the core, history and significance of International Friendship Day of the modern world?

Why Do We Celebrate Friendship Day?

The idea of dedicating a day to celebrate friendship dates back to the early 20th century. Hallmark cards Joyce Hall became the first recorded person to propose a bottle cap moment in 1930. This vision led him to believe that a day will come when people will exchange greeting cards with their friends on their behalf.

However, it was not until 2011 that the United Nations officially recognized and established the International Day of Friendship. The program was set up to foster peace, harmony, and understanding among the different cultures by getting the people to create friendship bridges irrespective of race, religion, and nationality.

In most countries such as India however, it is more acceptable to celebrate friendship day on the first Sunday of augment, usually making appeal to the media, school culture and pop fads. It is less important which day you are willing to celebrate that day but the fact that it celebrates the spirit of true friendship.

Why Friendship Matters in the World Today?

In the busy digital era when followers on social media are treated as good friends, actual friendships have become more treasured, and needed, than ever. Here’s why:

Sensorial Well-being: A good friend gives us a platform to be ourselves. Spouses take care of us during bad moments, making us happy in a successful endeavour, reducing stress and anxiety.
Social Connection: Particularly in a solitude period, like the one with COVID-19, the significance of a successful social connection stood out. It is not merely pleasant to be connected to other human beings but it is biologically necessary.
Cultural Awareness: Minorities and foreignness in friendship foster acceptability, sympathy and international dissimilarity.
Lifelong Development: Friends make us grow-both in personality and as well as in professional life. They provide worldviews that we did not previously take into consideration and press us to become the best versions of ourselves.

How International Friendship Day Celebrated Around the World?

All countries and cultures have their own way of celebrating Friendship Day. The festivities will be different but the spirit of celebrating friendship will be the same.

India

In India, the day is bright in whatever way among teenagers as well as college students. Friends even make Friendship Bands amongst each other, exchange gifts and more frequently share stories on social media. Friendship Day is marked with special offers in cafes, restaurants, brand-names and is a day of celebration and strengthening of friendship.

United States

It is not extensively recognized as a national holiday, rather people organize barbecues, meet up with their friends, send cards and wish each other digitally.

Brazil

In Brazilian culture, there is a day dedicated to friends and it is unofficially referred to as Dia do Amigo (Friend day). This is celebrated on July 20 where friends eat out and exchange gifts.

Argentina

Amigo Day, also known as Día del Amigo, is one of the most significant celebrations in Argentina, dedicated to honoring friendships and social bonds. Restaurants are full and phone lines are clogged with greetings and social media is flooded with appreciation messages to friends.

Online Celebrations

With the digital era, virtual birthday parties are popular with some people using Zoom or virtual messages to friends as well as tagging friends in nostalgic photos. The Internet has made the world more international thus a globalized day due to the evolution of friendships between people living in different countries.

How To Make Friendship Day Special?

These are a few considerate ideas of how to carry out the International Friendship Day, be it your neighbors or your international friends:

1. Write a Letter by hand

A handwritten note on a personal note can be very moving. Describe to the full extent how you feel, appreciate your friend in particular memories and teach your friend about your unique bond.

2. Surprise Call/visit

A phone call with an old friend, particularly, someone you have not talked to in a while would make the day special to both of you.

3. Friendship Brunch or Virtual Gathering

Celebrate by having a mini party or a virtual one. Memory-sharing, games, and laughter can help a lot.

4. Memory Scrapbook

The first triangle activity, a Memory Scrapbook is a good activity to use at the start of this lesson to raise awareness of some of the challenges facing the poor today. In Memory Scrapbook, the students are given issues about the lives of the poor that they cut and paste into a scrapbook.

Make a digital or physical scrapbook, with photos and old texts and some small inside jokes. It is a classic gift to mark your friendship odyssey.

5. Volunteer Together

Spread kindness to people outside your circle on the day. You can volunteer with a friend or collect donations to a local NGO. Friendship at its greatest can be built when something good is done and memories created.

The Friendship & Mental Health

Numerous studies have shown that friendship plays a crucial role in supporting and maintaining mental well-being. They minimize the threat of depression, uplift self-esteem and in fact give way to some physical well being benefits such as reduced blood pressure and an extended life.

In contrast to family (which we do not make a choice), it is all voluntary when it comes to friendships. The voluntary part brings in a special layer thereof – we put emotions into it, we forgive, we evolve. Our true friends can tell when we are up to something, when we are in trouble, they do not need our assistance because they will stick by us and they will congratulate us even remotely.

Having a reliable friend may be all that makes a difference especially during the time of a personal crisis.

Conclusion

One of life’s treasures is friendship, taking it in the purest form possible. International Friendship Day does not merely boil down to putting on fun activities or sharing on social media but it is about celebrating loyalty, trust and love that friends bring into our lives.

Friendship is a reminder in a world that worlds highlight the little things that make us different and in a world where divisions occur everywhere that there is commonality in experience, values and respect. In the midst of celebrating this day, we have time to give some appreciation to the people who stood by us and maybe give a call to the people we lost touch with.

Therefore, this Friendship Day, say it with a call, say it with a card, or say it with a good heartfelt hug; just make your friend know that they matter. Real friends do not enter your life; they are there to stay in your life and enrich your life like no other person can. In simple terms, they only make days special and precious, and they make routine days live like memories. Since behind all great memories will always be a friend who has made them memorable.

FAQs About International Friendship Day

Question: Is Friendship Day July 30, or August?

Answer: World Friendship Day is celebrated on 30 July as World Friendship Day and in most countries such as India it is celebrated on the first Sunday of the month of August. Festivities can be regional.

Question: Why celebrate friendship day?

Answer: Friendship Day is a day to remember the concept of friendship i.e. it is the remembrance of the people who motivate, encourage and help us. It is also a means of fostering unity, peace and understanding cross-border.

Question: Is there a specific flower or symbol for friendship?

Answer: Yellow roses are widely regarded as a symbol of friendship, representing warmth, joy, and companionship. They represent joy, warmth, and affection. This is perfect for celebrating this special bond.

Question: What are some unique gift ideas for Friendship Day?

Answer: Some meaningful gift ideas include:

Customized friendship bracelets or keychains
Personalized photo frames or mugs
A handwritten letter or card
Books you think they’ll love
A plant that symbolizes growth and care

Friendship Day Quotes

“A good friend glances over your damaged fence and appreciates the beautiful flowers”

“True friends who can grow separately without growing apart is the most beautiful revelation”

“Each friend represents a world in us, a world that probably doesn’t come to life until they approach us”

“A true friend is somebody who sees anguish in your eyes when everyone else focuses on the smile”

“Anybody can sympathize with the sufferings of a friend, but it requires a very fine nature to sympathize with a friend’s success.” – Oscar Wilde

“To have a friend, one has to be a friend”

“True ties are not determined by the time or favours spent together. But through comfort, when you know that you have each other”

“Real friends are not those who remove your difficulties. They are the ones that will not disappear when you face hardships”

“Good friends are like diamonds — bright, beautiful, valuable, and always in style.” – Nicole Richie

“The one who believes in you, when you stop believing in yourself, is a loyal friend”