Artisans and cancer survivors come together for a unique initiative, headed by the Apollo Cancer Centre (ACC), New Delhi. ArtCan recently launched by ACC is a medium that uses art to spread awareness about breast cancer. With the help of Kerala Mural arts, this initiative brings forth 8 steps of SBE or self breast examination ways that encourage women in the early detection and prevention of breast cancer.
About ArtCan
Art transcends all languages, borders and barriers and is an excellent platform to convey a message. ArtCan uses art created on a ‘can’vas for awareness about ‘can’cer. The ArtCan project has 8 murals that portray women performing self breast examination. The visual artistic SBE explanation is accompanied by stories of breast cancer survivors in the book – Chitrasutra.
Chitrasutra is thus, ArtCan’s most interesting and earnest attempt at making women aware of the SBE methods, along with the poetic prose and stories of real women who survived this disease due to early examination, detection and treatment.
Some facts
Breast cancer is globally the most diagnosed cancer. 25% of cancer cases across the world are breast cancer cases, however, early detection can lead to 90% survival rate or more. Every 1 in 8 women are affected by breast cancer and thus it is important to raise awareness about the warning signs and self examination methods to prevent women from losing lives. Early steps are the key in survival for breast cancer and ArtCan through Chitrasutra hopes to encourage, guide and inspire women to face cancer and beat it.
Also, breast cancer is caused due to several factors, including lifestyle and environmental changes, anomalies in aging, as well as, it is genetically inherited too.
Chitrasutra
Chitrasutra is a wonderful collection of 8 murals that visually and artistically depict the 8 self examination ways to detect breast cancer symptoms. With an attached prose and the story of a breast cancer survivor, each mural is a succinct, yet passionately honest endeavor to touch the lives of the people, especially women reading it. In simple steps it explains to women the basic self examining steps to undertake on a regular basis. Besides, the stories of women cancer survivors help identify and acknowledge these real heroes who fought the disease with courage and strength.
Life imitates art and ArtCan hopes to use the power of art to spread awareness about breast cancer. SBE and mammography at regular intervals is the best way to detect and protect oneself against this disease. Finally, as a line from Chitrasutra sums it all up – “From care to cure, we need to progress in this direction, then only you can win over cancer.”
Handicraft is described as the human or mechanical manipulation of raw materials to create useful or decorative objects from clay, rock, paper, stone, and other materials by skilled artisans.The amount of talent, care, and skill that goes into creating these stunning sculptures is admirable. India’s crafts are diverse, with a rich history, culture, and religion. Each state’s craft reflects the impact of different empires. These crafts have been ingrained as a culture and custom in rural areas for ages.
Since time immemorial, Indian handicrafts have been admired and revered over the world, leaving everyone in amazement. India is a true blue shopper’s paradise, thanks to its abundant cultural legacy, which is represented in the intricateness of its handicrafts.
The Indian handicrafts sector includes over 7 million craftsmen and 67000 exporters that promote regional art and craftsmanship in both local and global markets. Women and other individuals from India’s rural areas make up the majority of these craftspeople. In other words, this sector employs a number of individuals from the poorer sections of society who earn a living from their creative works of art, and India is directing the preservation of its craftsmen, art, and handicrafts in this way.
Here is a list of ten websites to buy Indian Handicrafts Online that are bridging the maker-consumer divide:
1. ExclusiveLane
ExclusiveLane was founded on a passion for handcrafted goods. The company handpicks handicraft items from rural craftsmen from various regions of India and allows them to uncover their abilities via their exquisite handicraft products. They are known for displaying diversity, heritage, and authentic items to urban customers at an accessible price while maintaining traditional art. The company was founded with the express purpose of providing economic upliftment to craftsmen concerned with conserving the history of India’s handicrafts sector. Their mission is to maximise the use of handicrafts in urban India as well as in other nations and to make ancient traditional artisans aware of their international significance via their broad skill in the simplest way possible.
This online store for handicrafts, handlooms, fabrics, jewellery, paintings, and other artworks is India’s only crafts and loom retailer with a complete inventory of handmade artisanal products ranging from phulkari dupattas in Punjab and bandhani sarees in Gujarat to ikkat handloom fabrics in Andhra Pradesh and pattachitra paintings in Odisha. With over 100,000 entries, it is the largest curated marketplace for art and handicraft products, sourcing things such as jewellery, garment materials, and home items from around 10,000 craftsmen across India. Every day, the portal adds 500 or more new goods. Every order from Gwalior-based iTokri includes a handwritten note on recycled paper and a handmade trinket neatly wrapped in eco-friendly packaging, making it one of the most popular e-commerce portals among a discerning domestic and global audience interested in Indian handicraft and handloom products.
The India Craft House is a web portal that showcases some of the world’s most ancient and exquisite craft styles. This social company was founded about ten years ago with the goal of preserving, showcasing, and sharing the talent of India’s craftsmen with the rest of the world. They want to be able to enhance the dignity of the Indian artisan in our own manner, as well as spark interest and support for an unrivalled history of the craft that spans millennia and extends across the whole country. It is their goal to develop an undoubtedly distinct collection of traditional art and craft that has been turned into a range of stunning, contemporary items. They have built partnerships with over 2000 artists directly and via colleagues throughout the years. The major goal is to empower Indian artisans and build up a group of people who are often overlooked.
Akkaara was formed from traditional stories, dusty workshops, and the fragrance of the ground. Each piece in the Akkaara line is handcrafted to magnificent imperfection and tells the narrative of its unique personality. Akkaara creates high-end lifestyle goods influenced by folklore and traditional crafts. Their items are produced by artists who have polished their expertise over years of experience. Each item in the collection has been meticulously created. Concern for the material, concern for the artists, and concern for the tradition, Akkaara seeks to resurrect what has been lost via each product: the exquisite beauty of ancient arts, the cultural legacy of generations of crafters, and the recollection of age-old stories steeped in traditional knowledge and folklore.
The development and support of the handicraft community is both vital and urgent. It is critical for the grassroots growth of local communities as well as the preservation of fading crafts and traditions passed down through generations. Kopái – Paar was inspired by this notion and is driven by passion for the handcrafted. They think that every donation, no matter how small, is beneficial, and that supporting crafts, craftsmen, and artists must be a deliberate decision. In the heart of India, in its villages, men and women produce one-of-a-kind artisan creations using the naturally accessible resources. They collaborate closely with the craftspeople to learn their processes and develop one-of-a-kind, long-lasting objects with an emphasis on inventive, eye-catching patterns and exceptional quality.
Goddess Durga is the sacred manifestation of Shakti, the feminine force that pervades the cosmos. As Shiva’s spouse, she morphed into Ekaa, the world’s most powerful God and the sole source of all energy. Their new collection of high-quality items is a representation of this very Ekaa. Each piece is created by expert local craftsmen and is unrivalled in quality and value. Each product is characterised by its intricate decorations and careful craftsmanship. This collection embodies the cosmic spirit of the incomparable Maa Durga, making each piece a trip in and of itself. Ekaa accomplishes our ambition of providing a handcrafted selection of quality handicrafts that may bring a touch of elegance and culture to your décor, from wood and marble to brass and semi-precious stone.
The ‘Gaatha’ initiative was created to fill that critical function of storytelling, delivering social and financial advantages to the artisan colonies. They want to be the tool through which craftsmen may directly engage with a worldwide audience, as well as the resource that helps craft sell stories and ideals rather than goods. Gaatha aims to facilitate ‘dialogues’ between artisans and their customers, enabling ‘co-creation’ opportunities and collective progress. They are devoted to preserving all good practises and all procedures that are compassionate, just, and environmentally balanced.
Kadam is a non-profit organisation that collaborates with around 600 artisans from West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, and Kashmir. Their aim is to eliminate poverty by guaranteeing that no one in India is compelled to live below the poverty line and to create opportunities that empower women and youth in rural India with a life of choice and dignity. To address this at the grassroots level, Kadam creates small and medium-sized firms that harness local resources to provide education and meaningful work prospects for young people in remote areas. Kadam enables self-reliance throughout distant rural areas by empowering semi-skilled women in communities, expanding their mobility, cultivating independence, and engaging local youth.
Chanderiyaan is an e-Commerce platform that aims to exhibit to the world the wonder and beauty of Chanderi weaving in its many colours. It is a forum for sharing the skill of the Chanderi weavers of Madhya Pradesh’s District Ashok Nagar in Central India. It is a one-stop shop for Chanderi items online. They have a diverse assortment of items ranging from Chanderi ethnic to pure designer handwork. It is a platform for sharing the wealth of weaving and design patterns that have evolved over many centuries in this weaving town, each with its own historical dynamics and stories to tell. They are a social entrepreneurship effort aimed at increasing the community’s sustainability and livelihood. Weavers may use Chanderiyaan to skip the large network of master weavers and sell their products straight into the worldwide market.
Okhai sells handcrafted clothing and lifestyle items made by rural artisans from around India. These artists have the creativity and traditional abilities to create magnificent patterns in styles distinct to their culture and background. The goods have modern designs and are competitively priced. Proceeds from sales assist these artisans in helping themselves – Okhai’s mission is to encourage women from less privileged backgrounds to learn new skills; to provide them with the self-confidence and self-esteem necessary to earn a living through their own hard work and initiative; and to enable them to carry this newly discovered skill and confidence into the wider world. Okhai recognises the rich history and customs of these rural areas and turns them into goods by combining traditional art with current designs and technological methods.
Handicrafts are a means of preserving the rich traditional art forms and legacy, as well as the abilities linked with the people’s history and way of life. The country is endowed with a plethora of highly trained craftspeople. They have raised the profile of Indian handicrafts over the world and are extremely crucial for the country’s economic prosperity.
This week Karnataka celebrates its 67th formation day – Kannada Rajyothsava. On 1 November 1956, the Kannada speaking regions spread across various other states came together to form the state of Karnataka. Today, the vibrant southern Indian state’s cosmopolitan capital Bangalore has officially become Bengaluru.
Karnataka is a land of culture, after gaining immensely popularity around the world as being the IT hub of India, the state has become a treasure trove for investors and a lucrative land for corrupt politicians.
However, there are some things about this state that hasn’t changed at all… like the culture, the hospitality, the processions, the cuisine and the language.
Ah! Kannada language!! Before the ‘IT boom’, Karnataka was primarily conversing in Kannada, and little bit of Telugu, Tamil and Marathi. The diction of North Karnataka people is slightly different in Kannada, which borrows a lot of words from Hindi and Marathi. And as you move up near the border towards Maharashtra, the language gradually changes to Marathi.
Back in the 1990s when I visited my granny’s place in Belgaum, I remember her saying something like “Priya, Kannadi madhe bolun dakho” (Priya, Speak some Kannada for me!) It really took me some time to realize that ‘Kannadi’ meant Kannada. I corrected her, but you know how it is with grannies!
However, after that incident, I kept my ears open for anyone saying Kannadi instead of Kannada. I was in for a major shock! Apparently Kannadi had a new synonym, and it was best friends with ‘Kannad’. Imagine my frustration when I had to deal with Kannad and amaze at a person’s inability to get the name of language right. We never say Marath, or Malyal or Hind, right?, so why does the world find it so difficult to say KannadA??? It’s a humble ‘A’…
It also reminds me of the infamous pronunciation of Hindi news readers calling the then prime minister, ‘Devegoda’, while it was ‘Devegowda’, as in ‘Gaul’! Forget pronunciation, most non-Kannadigas residing in Namma Bengaluru feel they can get by knowing little or no Kannada at all. How come learning a local language is not a necessity even after residing in that city for years? Can you live in Ludhiana for a few years and say I don’t know Punjabi?
I feel the primary reason for the locals’ resentment against North Indians is their utter disregard to local language. I have seen many North Indians arguing with an autorickshaw driver or the milkman in Hindi. Why don’t they have the cultural sensitivity that it is difficult for we south Indians to learn Hindi?! Obviously this kind of animosity leads to mindless violence against some innocent victim like the Manipuri student who got injured recently.
Anyway, I think it is high time we Kannadigas talk to everyone in Kannada; only then outsiders will be forced to learn Kannada. Thankfully, there are some great initiatives like Kannadagottilla.com that promote Kannada as the primary spoken language!
Blessed with fascinating beauty and majestic grandeur, the art forms of Karnataka have helped the state to secure a unique place in India. Situated in the southern part of India, the state shares its borders with the other states of Kerala, Goa, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu.
Karnataka is also home to the “Silicon Valley of India,” i.e, the city of Bangalore. The state is known all over India for its rich cultural heritage. It is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in the country. Karnataka is also home to several monuments and places of historical significance. Which include Hampi, the capital of the ancient empire of Vijayanagara. The plethora of festivals and the rich tradition add to the beauty of the state.
From the urban city of Bangalore to the historically significant Hampi to the scenic and mesmerizing Coorg. It can be concluded that the state of Karnataka is home to some of the most fascinating places in India. The art, culture, and music of Karnataka are instrumental in portraying the diversity prevalent in the state.
The state is known for it’s distinct and culturally relevant art forms. The art forms of the state serve as a means to bring the communities closer. From the Yakshagana, which employs elaborate costumes, to the Chodi Ke Mela, which includes musical narration, the state has so much to offer an art lover. The art forms of the state are quite distinct from any other state of India. The difference is evident in their costumes, make-up, narration, dialogue, plot, and performance. Most of the art forms of Karnataka narrate stories from the Indian epics. The performances of these enthralling art forms usually take place during festivals, fairs, and other such special occasions. The festivals in Karnataka culture are quite colorful, splendid, vibrant and are sure to lift the spirits of the observer. The tranquility and the spirituality of the state reign supreme in its art form too.
A traditional art form of Karnataka, Yakshagana, is the most popular and the most significant art form of the state. It is said to have originated four hundred years ago and used a unique technique of narration. The word “Yaksha” refers to celestial beings, and the word “gana” refers to the song.
The performance comprises a combination of music, dance, elaborate costumes, and face painting. A Theatrical Art form, Yakshagana, has secured the pride of place among the other art forms of Karnataka. It mainly narrates stories from the Indian epics.
The lively performance of the Yakshagana usually takes place during the night-time. It is accompanied by the background music, which adds to the thrilling ambiance providing a unique experience to the viewers. The art form is generally performed during rainy seasons. It thus serves as a means to uplift the spirits.
Dollu Kunita is an energetic and vibrant dance form that is widely prevalent in the state of Karnataka. This art form is usually performed in honor of Lord Beereshwara. The performers move in quick-paced steps in a circular fashion while beating their drums. This produces a unique kind of music that is perfectly in tune with the mode of the performance. The synchronization of the movement of the performers with the music produced is one of the highlights of the performance. The performance is highly dynamic. It provides a thrilling and enthralling experience to anyone who would witness it.
Goravara Kunitha is another popular art form in the state of Karnataka. To perform this art form, the performers dress in vibrant and attractive costumes. The dancers performing in perfect synchronization with each other would mesmerize the viewer.
The dance is said to portray the hidden animalistic characteristics of human beings. The art form is esteemed and widely performed during festivals, fairs, and other special occasions.
4. Somana Kunita
A very unique and enthralling art form of Karnataka, Somana Kunitha is a symbol of the rich heritage of the state. Usually performed by two or three men, the performers wear elaborate costumes, a large mask, and huge headgear as they perform the dance.
The dance is performed in villages and is said to possess the power to protect the village and keep away all the evil spirits.
5. Krishna Parijatha
Krishna Parijatha is a fascinating theatrical art form and is most popular in the northern part of Karnataka. The folk art narrates the adventure of Lord Krishna and Lord Indra and is quite popular throughout the whole country.
The performance of Krishna Parijatha usually takes place in open-air theatres. This provides the actors ample freedom to improvise while on the stage. Along with the vibrant and distinct costumes, Krishna Parijatha has the capability to enchant the viewer with its powerful performance. Moreover, the simple dialogues and the exciting plot add to the charm of the performance.
6. Jagghalige Kunita
Jaghaligle Kunita is a folk art form of the North Karnataka region. Jaghaligle is a special percussion instrument used for the act is made of the wheels of bullock carts which are encased in buffalo hides. This performance is a custom during the Ugadi and Holi festivals. Usually the villagers make a group of 12-15 members and roll out instrument in the form of procession following the instructions of a choreographer. The rhythmic folk art imparts an atmosphere of anticipation and entertainment.
The Beesu Kamsale is one of the most dynamic folk art forms of Karnataka. It incorporates the music of the instrument called Kamsale, a brass disc iconically used in the performance. The people of Mahadeshwara Gudda mainly participate in this dance, which demands diligent practice and honed skills. The dance is performed with rhythmic and synchronised movements of the performers in tune with the music. This art form requires the performer to have intense training and concentration to present a powerful performance.
8. Chowdike Mela
The performance employs musical narration and is usually performed by women. The devotees of goddess Yellamma sing praises to her name through the Chowdike pada. They smear sacred ash on their foreheads and devote themselves to Yellamma. Chowdike Mela employs an extraordinary and unique instrument called Chowdike for its performance. Chowdike Mela is capable of providing the spectator a unique and soothing experience.
9. Veeragase
The Veeragase is a traditional dance form of the Hindu religion performed in the months of Shravana and Karthika to worship their gods . The dance got its name from Veerbhadra, a Hindu warrior from the state of Karnataka. It is a vivacious and lively folk dance, often presented during the Dasara festival procession which is held in the streets of Mysore. The devotees of Lord Shiva, who perform the Veeragase dance, are known as Lingadevaru. The performers wear extravagant costumes which include headgears, a Rudraksha mala and a hip belt of several gems.
In Bootha kola, Bhoota signifies ‘spirits’ and Kola means ‘play’ in Tulu. It is fundamentally a spirit worship ritual celebrated by Tulus in Karnataka and a few regions of Kerala. These spirits shield the town from calamities and make them prosperous. It is accepted that the outrage of these spirits brings misfortune. The ones adored are Panjurli, his sister Varthe, Kalluri, Kalkuda, Kordhabbu, Guliga, Jarandaya, Bobbarya, etc. There are stories that depict their bravery and how they came to be worshipped. These spirits are neither virtuous nor awful. Kola is additionally called ‘nema’ which implies ceremony, which continues from dusk to dawn.
11. Togalu Gombeyaata
Gombe Aata (play of dolls or Puppet show) is a distinct type of skill native to Karnataka. Gombe Aata includes narration using characters made from dolls, who are conducted by people in the background using undetectable strings. Made of wood and dressed with silk cloths, puppets are key elements of Gombe Aata. The puppetry ordinarily showcases minor plots from sagas like Ramayana, Mahabharata or different puranas/old stories. A Gombe aata show incorporates music and narration, with puppets moving around in front of an audience, as commanded by the puppeteers. They perform activities like embracing, bowing, folding their hands, etc.
Huli Vesha (otherwise known as tiger dance) is performed to honor Goddess Durga and her sacred animal, the tiger, during navratri. Huli Vesha performances usually include a troupe of dancers clothed in tiger costumes, tiger face masks or face paintings, tiger stripes on the body and yellow or orange hued shorts. The group proceeds onward to the central streets of the town, joined by drums and music, engaging general citizens and at times gathering contributions from whoever offers the same. During the dance, they take several intervals to play out certain tricks and stunts to keep the crowd more engrossed.
Suggi Kunitha is a dance form performed during the seasons of the harvesting festival in Karnataka. It is presented by the Halakki tribe during the January and February months with the sole motive of entertainment. Suggi dance is performed by a troop of twelve to fourteen who dance to the beats of the drum. It continues as they go from village to village with the beats of the drum and sing in unison and also gather grains and cash as a contribution.
On the last day, the dance lasts for the whole day and night. The drummers keep on chanting loudly to make the moment livelier. Dance steps used in this type of dance are compared to sea waves, curves on growing vines, or rivers flowing, relating the dance form to the varying phases of nature. The songs used in such performances are related to ones in Hindu Mythology. An extraordinary turban embellished with ornaments of various colours, small birds made of wood, and feathers of a peacock is worn by the dancers. The colours used in the turban are mostly red, green, yellow, and white associating with most of nature’s colours. The costumes worn by the men are colourful specifically bright while they perform the Suggi Dance.
14. Huttari Kunita
Hattari is one of the most vivacious forms of dance that has been started by the inhabitants of Coorg in Mysore. This dance has some of the most colourful clothing which is worn by the males. Women do not take part in this dance. Only the menfolk are seen dancing on the drum beats and pipe sounds. In addition, the dancers make use of shields and canes which are clutched in their hands and handled carefully and gracefully for the performance. This dance form even involves few steps which are inspired by the tandava style as they employ footwork by raising the left foot and then balancing the right foot and jumping vigorously. Hattari dance is performed in open fields where men disguise themselves in the most attractive traditional black tunics. Also, the dress worn by the dancers during the performance includes all decorative garments such as turbans, white trousers and black traditional tunics. They also tie a sash card along their waist while performing the Hattari dance. They make a circle or form a large ring and then perform the Hattari dance in round movements.
15. Karaga
The Karaga is an earthen pot that sustains a floral pyramid and a miniature figure of the goddess with a small silver umbrella on top of that. The Tigala community, who believe Draupadi as their most important god, have faith that Draupadi’s power increase during the Festival and the Carrier dressed as a woman signifies Draupadi. The contents of the pot have been a secret for centuries. The carrier’s arrival is declared by hundreds of bare-chested, dhoti-clad, turbaned Veerakumaras bearing drawn swords. Tradition has it that this frenzied procession of Veerakumaras accompanying the karaga carrier can execute him should he stumble and let the karaga fall. This festival takes place in the central part of the Bangalore city is known as Bangalore Karaga. The dancers perform various acrobatic feats while following the procession accompanied by a number of musical instruments like ‘Thavi’, “Nadaswaram”, “Muni”, “Udukka”, “Pamba”, etc. The carrier keeps dancing along with the Veerakumaras as he balances the Karaga or pot on his head. The VeeraKumaras keep banging their unsheathed swords on their chest, chanting “dik-di dik-di.”
Though the art forms of Karnataka differ widely from each other concerning their mode of performance. They all have one thing in common, the power to mesmerize the audience. Anyone who witnesses these art forms would surely be left enchanted by the charm and beauty of the performance.
Through their incredible art forms, the state has succeeded in preserving its rich culture and varied heritage through centuries
Though the art forms of Karnataka differ widely from each other concerning their mode of performance. They all have one thing in common, the power to mesmerize the audience. Anyone who witnesses these art forms would surely be left enchanted by the charm and beauty of the performance.
Through their incredible art forms, the state has succeeded in preserving its rich culture and varied heritage through centuries.
The festive season brings about a refreshing ambience in the entire country. You follow all the traditions that have been going on for years in your family. Some of these are cleaning the entire house during Diwali and even changing the home decor or renovating the whole house during this season. Not to forget, getting all the glamorous dresses to attend the Diwali functions and celebrations. Today, we’re going to talk about the home decor essentials that you must buy this Diwali by availing to the amazing Diwali offer to bring about a new look and refreshing aura to your house.
Floor rugs
If you are looking for a budget-friendly decor item that is both functional and decorative, then go for floor rugs. You get these at exclusive rates with the ongoing Diwali offer on various sites. Place them at the centre of your room as stair runners or even near your bedside to add a touch of beauty to your home.
Decorative lights
We all know that Diwali is a festival of lights. So you can’t even imagine decorating your house without this primary factor. And there are numerous kinds of decorative lights available in the market. You can choose one for your window, your door nearby the curtains, at the entrance of your bedroom or living room and so on. Get as many lights as you can get, buy them and enhance the beauty of your house instantly.
Chandeliers
When we’re talking about lights, let us not limit the option to only decorative ones. You can be as elaborating and elegant as you like in your home decor options. Like, there are chandeliers which are exclusively available in the market that you can install in your living room or the bedroom or even near your entrance. The presence of these chandeliers is enough to make your home look more decorative and magnificent.
Traditional wall paintings
Art frames and paintings have been adding beauty to your home for years. Now, if you think your previous one doesn’t match the festive theme or has been there for too long, you can get a new one this festive season. In a Diwali offer, grab a traditional-looking wall painting that depicts a story about this festival or makes your home decor look more celebrated. The choice is yours, but this decorative option in your house is definitely going to make it look more beautiful.
Candles, kandils and diyas
Time to adapt to the age-old tradition this Diwali. Try and install different kinds of candles and diyas and even candles for decoration. They are available in distinct shapes, made by different artists in different varied materials and they can be as drool-worthy as you want them to be. Just place him at the right locations, and you will see a distinct feel and festivity in your home ambience.
Artificial plants and decorative flowers
We agree that there is nothing like the original greenery, but the beauty of artificial flowers and plants can’t be challenged as well. They add a cool and refreshing factor to your home decor and can enhance the beauty of your house’s entrance, windows and other areas where you like them to be!
The holiday season has arrived, ready to brighten your homes and adorn your wardrobes with more pomp. It’s time for the Diwali festival, which is filled with zeal and glitz. It is undeniably a celebrated celebration that crosses age, ethnicity, and religious lines. While it is usual to clean and decorate your home during holidays, Diwali is also an excellent opportunity to show off your outfits. For this occasion, we all like dressing up in our finest Indian traditional costume since it honors Indian culture in all its splendor. These are the days to flaunt your finest silk sarees, picture-perfect lehengas, and other types of wardrobe opulence. If you are still unsure about your Diwali attire, we are here to assist you. Here is a selection of Diwali dress ideas that are fashionable, sophisticated, and exude festive sentiments.
Fashion trends are constantly changing and developing, ranging from loose clothing to print-on-print. What’s the most remarkable part? You do not always have to stock up on new clothing to keep up with the latest trends and fashion. Rummaging through your closet for the ideal mix and match will suffice.
You may peruse online fashion shops, choose your favorites, and have them all delivered to your doorsteps for free or at a bit of cost. Let’s get right in and discover what’s hot in fashion in 2022. We’ve rounded together the finest and trendiest Diwali costume designs.
Let’s get right in and discover what’s hot in fashion in 2022. We’ve rounded together the finest and trendiest Diwali costume designs.
1. Florals
When is floral not in style? No way. It goes with everything and still looks good. These are a wardrobe must-have. Refresh your wardrobe with flower designs in vibrant colors or delicate patterns to complement the season’s blossoms. Floral motifs come in light, monochromatic, bright, and tropical shades. These summer-patterned dresses are stylish and comfortable. You may wear flowery Anarkalis with flared palazzo trousers and sparkling decorations or pastel shoes and purses with outfits.
2. Seasonal hues
Colors like red, orange, and turquoise look great with blue denim, yellow and green, purple and coral, or purple bottoms and white tops. Bright colors are ideal for this weather to enhance mood and vitality.
You may also choose from neutrals like tan and maroon, pastels like pink and light blue, or soft pink and gray.
3. Bold style
Indian off-shoulder shirts and embroidered blouses now feature ballooning puffed sleeves, as seen in delicate Victorian costumes and long beautiful Juliet sleeved skirts. The trendy sleeves are practical and circle your shoulders.
Crop tops, maxi tunics, and cotton kurtas are popular choices for statement sleeves. You may find a lot of bargains online.
4. Anarkalis
Image – suvidhafashion.com
Anarkalis are truly timeless. These gowns feature a stunning shape inspired by the legend of the same-named courtesan who once stole the heart of a royal prince. The form of the garment corresponds perfectly to the definition of anarkali — a delicate bud/pomegranate flower. An Anarkali is the ideal costume for meeting your own prince this Diwali. Choose a floor-length anarkali to create drama and volume. Choose light and flowing fabrics like chiffon, mul, or georgette to offer a modern and trendy twist to your style, and feel free to skip the dupatta and churidar.
Yes, you can dress it up as a maxi dress and get away with it. If you choose to have a conservative tone, a sheer, floor-length dupatta will help you add that additional touch of elegance.
6. Smocks
Mini, midi, and maxi-smocked dresses in pastel colors and flowing shapes are among the most comfortable and flattering dresses for spring-summer. The dresses are lightweight, stretchy, and ideal for warmer weather.
Smocked dresses include rucked shoulder embellishments, collar ruffles, and tiers and are tightened at the waist for a casual, breezy feel. That means you can wear it with sneakers or flats!
7. Minimalist Fashion
Try out some enjoyable minimalist clothes this Diwali. Minimalistic ensembles are popular this season, and you can make the most of them during Diwali. The fundamental premise of minimalist fashion is to keep things simple. To honour the occasion, you might wear a modest sari with natural makeup and little jewellery. This Diwali apparel trend can help you stay light and make your celebration stress-free. And whoever said “less is more” was certainly correct. Layering may be used to give appeal to your minimalist approach. Mix textures to add interest to your style.
8. Accessories are essential!
Dupattas, oxidized jewelry, and basics like earrings and necklaces are must-haves, but safety comes first. So, the latest fad is a face mask. Masks now come with designer bows, chains, and stones.
Asymmetrical earrings, delicate pearls, and detachable chained hydration necessities are popular choices for dressing up for virtual informal or business situations.
9. Palazzos
Image – suvidhafashion.com
Palazzos have won our hearts with its easy-breezy charm and ultra-comfortable carryings. The best part about this Diwali fashion trend is that you can match it with a crop top, tunic, kurta, Anarkali, or even a choli and still look fashionable. Palazzos are also a popular celebrity dress trend. To give dimension to your look, pair a wide-leg palazzo pant with a long kurti. If you’re wearing it with a tunic or long top, give some shape to your style with accessories like belts.
10. Silk Saree
Every girl’s wardrobe should include a classic and timeless silk saree. When it comes to appearing stylish and powerful during Diwali without forsaking the traditional style of clothing, sarees appear to be the greatest Diwali costume alternatives. Choose from a selection of saree styles such as Silk, Banarasi, Bengali, Pure, and Chiffon Sarees to complete your festive appearance. If wearing hefty sarees makes you feel uneasy, go for lightweight sarees and bulky blouses to balance out your festival’s unique looks.
Wear your saree with a stylish blouse. Yes, the blouse is important. Three-quarter sleeves and strappy, camisole-style blouses are the safest picks, but don’t be afraid to try something new. Speaking of experimentation, while the traditional drape is a definite bet, there is no one way to wear a saree. Experiment with many styles to find which one best suits you. Diwali gatherings are the perfect reason.
You can also get heavy discounts and bumper Diwali offers for Diwali dress collections and Diwali sarees online.
Suvidha Fashion Collection provides their customers with a plethora of unique discounts and promo codes. That’s it. Following a trend does not need emptying your pocketbook. If you desire to shop Diwali Kurti Collection or the Diwali Saree collection for this festive season, you will be happy to see our coupons and discount codes.
Therefore, don’t forget to claim them if you want to boost your savings even more!
When the festival of Diwali approaches, you can half of the population strolling in the markets in the quest for the perfect Diwali gifts for their loved ones. Yes, be it gift shops or marketplaces or sweet shops, you can find crowd everywhere. So, if you are looking for some famous gift shops or markets or Diwali fairs in Delhi where you can get the best Deepavali gift for your loved ones, check out the following six best places listed below:
Select city is one of the most popular malls in Delhi and the nearest metro station to reach there is Malviya Nagar. Every year during Diwali, there happens a event called ‘Diwali Bazaar’ at the plaza that offers approx 50+ stalls of different categories. So, whether you are looking for festive wear, gifting items, home decor, footwear, you can find all the Diwali essentials here.
Delhi Haat is one of the famous markets in Delhi known for Indian handicrafts and artifacts. There are a number of stores that offers a wide variety of handicraft items, ethnic wears, fashion accessories, and many more things. Also, you can find a number of food stalls from different states there which serve some of the best food items in Delhi.
Janpath and the Tibetan market are a great place for Diwali shopping in a cost effective way. All you need to have is a good bargaining skills to get all your Diwali essentials at a really decent price. Janpath is famous for antique jewelries and trendy outfits. While at the Tibetan market, you can find Indian artifacts, paintings, brassware etc.
Sundar Nagar market offers a number of art and antique shops. It’s a very posh market famous for silver jewelry, art, textiles, carpets, and antiques. Also, the Sunder Nagar Diwali Mela is very famous in Delhi. Just a week before Diwali, the fair takes place wherein stalls are put by owners who sell ethnic wears, jewellery, beauty products and many more things.
Atta Market
Whether you are looking for Indian or western wear or designer diyas or some amazing gift items for your loved ones, you can find the best Diwali items here. During Diwali, this market is decorated with colorful lights and it offers beautiful diyas, candles, idols of Laxmi and Ganesha etc. In short, you can find here all types of decoration items.
Needless to say that Chandni Chowk is the most famous market in Delhi for all types of things. It has been in existence for hundreds of years and ever since this market is running successfully. So, basically, there are three famous lanes in Chandni Chowk where you can find all your desired stuffs for Diwali. For fabrics, you can go to Katra Neel. For silver jewelries, you can go to Dariba Kalan’s. For ethnic wears, you can go to Kinari bazaar.
So, now that you know where to do your Diwali shopping from, go ahead to explore these places in order to find some of the best Diwali gifts, diyas, lights, jewelry etc for your loved ones.
Knowing the family’s medical history is essential for multiple reasons. This will help you and your doctor identify potential health risks. Learning about the medical conditions running in the family can help you proactively think about your health and adopt the necessary steps to minimise the risk of developing certain conditions.
In this regard, you can opt for a comprehensive family health insurance plan.
4 Important Family Medical History You Must Know
Your family’s medical history includes records of all the chronic diseases and disorders family members may have dealt with. Learning about such medical history is essential since genetics play a significant role in disorders and conditions that may develop over time.
Moreover, if one of your family members develops a disease, then you may be genetically vulnerable to developing the same. Therefore, by understanding or learning about the family’s medical history, you can take the necessary steps to reduce the development of any disorder or disease.
Nonetheless, here are some of the conditions that your doctors want you to be aware of:
1. Osteoporosis and bone problem
If osteoporosis or bone problems run in your family medical history, the chances of you suffering from the same in the future increase. For example, if your grandparents have been diagnosed with such a disease, you are more prone to develop such a condition. Moreover, other health problems, such as blood pressure and diabetes, can also impact your bone health.
2. Cancer
This disease can be passed down in families. Some cancers are caused by a genetic mutations that are passed from one generation to another. If you possess a family history of cancer, you are more prone to developing the same medical condition. For instance, if most people in your family smoke cigarettes, you may develop lung cancer. Knowing such medical conditions in the family can help you make healthy lifestyle choices.
3. Gastrointestinal issues
If you have GI issues in the family, you must be aware of them. GI issues can be both mild and severe; caused by multiple factors. Often some people are prone to gastrointestinal problems due to genetic reasons, while others can develop the condition due to years of an unhealthy lifestyle. Therefore, if you are experiencing such problems, it is important to consult a doctor and avail proper treatment.
However, such treatment can lead to severe expenses. In this regard, purchasing a family health insurance plan beforehand can manage all these expenses efficiently. Moreover, you can avail substantial coverage for the entire family by making a single premium payment annually.
4. Diabetes
It is one of the common medical conditions that run in families. Unfortunately, if your parents have diabetes, you are more likely to be affected by the same. In such cases, you must take necessary measures to prevent yourself from developing it.
For instance, you can prevent diabetes by controlling your weight and maintaining a balanced diet. Regular exercise is also important.
Knowing your family’s medical conditions can help you take the required steps to stay away from such diseases and lead a healthy life. Besides, you can protect your finances with a family health insurance plan.
Such health insurance policies are cost-effective and allow your loved ones to get the necessary medical treatment without worrying about expenses. Nevertheless, before choosing such plans, you must check all the policy terms and conditions to avail the best family health insurance plan and avoid hassles in the long run.
Bus tickets from far away places, given as a present.
I cannot seem to remember why I began collecting bus tickets. I have always liked how they looked, with all those numbers printed and stamped on them. They probably had a significant meaning, but to me they spoke of all the happenings in buses I travelled. Two aunties with orange flowers in their hair, gossiping away; the one-beat whistle that the bus conductor uses to tell the driver that everyone is on board; eight, that may have been the number of times the bus conductor had to jolt me out of my reverie to tell me they were waiting for me to get off; five sneaky old ajjis (grannies) who managed to ride in the bus without paying for a ticket. 55 bus conductors who made away with the change they owed me (this may have partially been my fault. And no, I have not kept count!).
When I had just started collecting bus tickets, about six-seven years ago, I used to write a little note about whom I was with or something funny that happened in the bus, but this got tedious after a while. By my second year of college, my wallet was bulging with all the tickets I refused to keep anywhere else. The collection included bus tickets from KSRTC and Tamil Nadu bus tickets from down south to Himachal Path Parivahan Nigam up north. Bus conductors were most amused when I took it out to pay for my journey. One nodded at the wallet and asked, ”hobby, ah?” and another was positively disgusted and went away muttering to himself after expostulating about what would possess someone to hold on to so many bus tickets.
Bus ticket collection in old envelope
By my third or fourth year of college my wallet had started complaining by bursting at its seams and I had to move out a few other objects of interest to make place for them. It was also getting harder to carry; it would not close and required a fair bit of expertise to induce new tickets to wedge themselves into non-existent crevices. Meanwhile, my dad was covertly removing some tickets and keeping them in an envelope. I think he feared a thief might think it was bursting with money!
One day, I got the idea to make a pop-art-ish collage out of them, which used up quite a few. I had to retire my wallet after a while and I now stash away my bus tickets in the envelope that my dad used for the ones he secretly extricated. Volvo buses and their tickets don’t have the same character or charm as the others and those tickets go straight in to the dustbin!
Ticket collage about chappals
Incidentally, I am not the only one bitten by desire to collect bus tickets. Disha Pancholi from Mumbai has collected a whopping 75,795 tickets till 2011! Similarly, Aruna Rajagopalan narrates her silly childhood episode of collecting bus tickets with the serial numbers from A-Z so that she could a Camlin pencil box!
Floor art is largely prevalent in India. Different regions have their own methodology, rituals and purpose when it comes to practicing floor art. Call it Rangoli, Kolam or Alpona each of these floor creations are quite popular in their own geographic and cultural hubs. Similarly, a floor art that is unique to Kerala is the Kalamezhuthu Pattu.
Kalamezhuthu Pattu is known by various names, such as Kalam pattu, Dhulee Chitram and Kalamezhuthu paintings. It is derived from Malayalam words, ‘kalam’, meaning a picture and ‘ezhuthu’, which means to draw. This art form is completely related to temple and religious rituals. The Kalamezhuthu paintings are a part of the ceremony that worships the deities, Bhadrakali, Ayyappan, Vettakkorumakan, Bhagavati and Sarpa (Naga). The entire ritual involves not only drawing of the deities, but also singing songs dedicated to them, ritualistic dancing and finally the removal of the painting itself.
The Kalamezhuthu ritual is conducted by various communities from Kerala. The Puttu Kurups are the main traditional practitioners of the ritual. Besides, the karups, the other communities that follow this ritual include Kaniyan, Theeyadi Nambiar, Kuravar, Pulayar, Vannan, Malayan, Koppaalan, Parayan, Theeyaattunni, Varanattu, Theyyampadi Nambiar and more.
During the Kalamezhuthu ritual a number of Kalamezhuthu artists are involved. The artists belong to the Karups, Theeyadi Nambiars, Theyyampadi Nambiars and Theeyadi Unnis communities. There are slight variations in the kalam or picture drawn by each of the different communities, however, the ritual and practice is similar. Also, the community members’ participation is in the singing, dancing and setting up the stage or temple area, also called paattu mandapam where the prayer or ritual unfolds.
The paattu mandapam or performance space is first prepared. This could be a separate stage set-up or within the temple premises itself. The space is decorated with garlands, flowers and oil lamps. Once the space is ready a long silk cloth runs right across the center. Next a puja is performed, also known as=‘uchapatti’ for the deity. The puja also consists of singing devotional songs. From now onwards, it is believed that the deity is present in the mandap. The Kurup then receives the koora or the silk cloth and places it on the ceiling of the stage. The Marar or the community of drummers play the drums, the Kurup sing the thottams along with the traditional instruments of kuzhi thailam (cymbal) and nanthuni (stringed instrument). The music and beating of drums continues till the end of the ritual. However, there might be slight variation in rituals that are dependent on the deity of worship.
The next step is when the kalam is drawn. It usually occurs during the evening or Sandhya vela, after rituals of deeparadhana, keli and thayambaka are completed. The artist uses only five colors and draws the entire image of the deity on the floor. The kalam begins with a single line drawn from east to west. The face and crown of the deity are drawn first, before filling in the details and adding the body. The image’s outline is done with white rice powder. Also, the picture is a 3D image using natural colors only. The five colors used are, white, black, green, red and yellow. White is prepared from rice powder, black from burnt husk, green from leaves, cassia, henna etc. Yellow is turmeric powder and red is a mix of lime water and turmeric. The colors are representative of the ‘pancha bhoota’ or five natural elements.
The kurupa artist takes anywhere between two to four hours to finish the entire image. He sprinkles the colors on the floor by hand, without using any tools. The size of the kalam is dependent on the deity, scale of the ritual and vastu shastra, though on an average, the picture is around 10 feet. The deity figures have clear expressions, such as they are in deep thought or anger. While the kalam is being made there are ongoing musical performances. The instruments that are used include kuzhal (wind instrument), chenda, ilathalam (cymbal like instrument), madhalam etc.
Once the kalam is completed the next step of the ritual follows. Kurup is the one who creates the deities’ pictures and sings too. However, once the figure is completed, the Komaram takes charges. The Komaram usually hails from the Nambudiri community and performs the important closing rituals. These include, kalapradikshinam, where he dances on rhythm of the traditional instruments around the deity’s picture or the kalam. The other ritual is nalikerameru, where coconuts are broken and offered to the deity. The final closing of the ceremony is called kalammakkal.
The Komaram is often regarded as the representative of God himself. Along with the kurup, other musicians and devotees he steps out to look upon them all. Finally, the Komaram steps inside and dances on the tunes of the instruments around the picture. The drums beat in accordance with the steps of the Komaram who takes several rounds around the image. This is followed by a ritual performed by the head priest or thantri.
Next is nalikeram peru where the Komaram starts breaking the coconuts at intervals. The crashing of the coconuts is in sync with the musical crescendo of the chenda or drums and creates an astounding spiritually mesmerizing ambiance. The number of coconuts varies between 3 to more than 12,000 depending on the scale of the ritual. As the coconuts are broken, the image of the deity is simultaneously erased until the entire picture is gone. The colors left behind are taken by devotees as a blessing or prasada.
Koora valikkal is the last rite, where the Komaram removes the silk cloth overhead and returns it. This marks the end of the Kalamezhuthu ritual.
The Kalamezhuthu ritual is common in many temples and also noble and elite households. The ritual is performed on various occasions. There is a 40 day festival that begins from the first of the month of Vrischikam in many Bhagavati temples in Kerala. Also, since it is dedicated to different Gods it is performed in their respective temples. For instance, Bhadrakali Kalamezhuthu is performed in Bhadrakali temples and the song that is played here is the Bhadrakali pattu which is centered on the killing of asura Darikan. The Nagakalam or Kalamezhuthu ritual for the serpent Gods is practiced mostly by the Valluvar community. The Thiyyas of Cheerbakavu from North Kerala perform the ritual at the Thalappoli festival and it lasts for three days. Thus, the rituals vary according to the community, region, deity etc.
The floor art of Kalamezhuthu is unlike any other floor arts of India. Though there are several similarities, in terms of concept, there are also a few features that are very specific to this art form. Like all other floor art, Kalamezhuthu is also erased at the end, leaving no trace of the original work. The colors used are natural but the painting is created only on religious and spiritual occasions. Where other floor arts are usually practiced by the women, Kalamezhuthu is primarily a man’s art.
Besides, Kalamezhuthu pattu has well defined rules that the artists have to follow. For example, the hair and ornaments of each deity have to adhere to standard specifications. Only for the deity Bhadrakali a few liberties in ornaments and attire are allowed. Similarly, the color green can be used for the body of Bhadrakali, Vettakkorumakan and Ayyappa. Kalam art is 3 dimensional, mostly for the enhancement of facial features. Also, weapons play an important role and are emphasized in the kalam.
Kalamezhuthu pattu is a distinct ritualistic practice carried out specifically in Kerala. Here art forms of music, dance and floor art come together in prayer and ritual to honor and pray to the Gods. A uniquely splendid ritual, it is slowly gaining more recognition in recent times.
