Welcome to this week's edition of Homegrown's Culture Bulletin. Dive into the world of denim with our curated selection of Indian denim brands, each offering innovative designs and exceptional craftsmanship that redefine fashion staples. Experience the emotional depth of indie rock with CONTRA's debut single Rain, capturing themes of desolation and loss. Explore the documentary While We Watched, shedding light on journalistic integrity and the challenges faced by independent journalists like Ravish Kumar. Indulge in the irresistible flavours of mango with Manam Chocolate's 'Manam Mango Summers - Edition 2024', showcasing unique mango-inspired treats. Reimagine waste with Inspired at Fika's denim and recycled paper making workshop, transforming old jeans into new creations. Lastly, delve into Indian politics with a curated selection of influential books, offering diverse perspectives on India's political landscape. Discover, indulge, and explore; here's 'This Week In Culture'.
Homegrown Denim Brands
A good pair of jeans is an essential wardrobe staple, offering both style and durability that can last for years. The unique silhouettes created by well-fitted denim effortlessly enhance any outfit, making it a versatile piece for various occasions. Recognizing the importance of quality and design, we’ve curated a list of Indian denim brands that are redefining fashion with their innovative approaches and exceptional craftsmanship. Discover the homegrown labels that are bringing something new to the denim industry with their standout pieces.
Check them out here.
While We Watched By Vinay Shukla
The award-winning documentary While We Watched, directed by Vinay Shukla, which explores the life of Ravish Kumar, a journalist renowned for his integrity and factual reporting. The film's timing is crucial as India faces elections amid rampant misinformation, showcasing the blurred line between personal and professional in journalism. It reveals the high personal costs Kumar faces for his outspoken critiques, illustrating the dire state of journalistic freedom. In an environment where big media often succumbs to political and commercial pressures, independent journalists like Kumar endure attacks and lawsuits. The documentary also highlights the rise of jingoistic journalism, which stifles dissent and promotes a singular, often divisive, view of nationalism.
Check into out here.
Rain by CONTRA
Mumbai's underground indie rock scene welcomes CONTRA, a band redefining emotional intensity with their debut single Rain, released under the independent label No Binary Records. The track immerses listeners in themes of desolation and emotional numbness. Led by vocalist Manas Jha and guitarist Dean/Nikhil Bhosle, formerly of the early 2000s indie band REVOLVER, CONTRA explores grief and the loss of vibrancy in everyday life. Produced by Siddharth Basrur, the track features a heavy grunge sound that captures the essence of despair, with lyrics reflecting a deep inner turmoil.
Check it out here.
Manam Mango Summers
As the summer heat intensifies, the irresistible allure of mangoes captures the hearts and taste buds of Indians nationwide. Celebrating this beloved fruit, Manam Chocolate in Hyderabad presents 'Manam Mango Summers - Edition 2024', blending nostalgia with culinary innovation. Known for its premium craft chocolates, Manam offers a unique array of mango-inspired treats. Highlights include Alphonso Mango jelly croissants, Kesar Mango bonbons with Guntur chilli-infused dark chocolate, and Himayat Mango custard flan. The DIY Mango Sundae Bar invites patrons to create personalized desserts with fresh mango chunks, sponge cake, and signature chocolate.
Check it out here.
Denim & Recycled Paper Making
Discover the potential hidden in those forgotten, faded jeans stowed away in your closet. At Inspired at Fika, an engaging workshop awaits to ignite your creativity and change your outlook on waste. The denim and recycled paper making workshop leads you through crafting handmade paper from scratch, giving new life to your old denim. This hands-on experience not only promotes sustainable practices by utilizing recycled materials like scrap paper and denim scraps but also empowers you to create unique and functional pieces. Dive into natural dyes and explore botanical elements to add organic beauty and texture to your creations.
Check it out here.
5 Books About Modern Indian Politics
Dive deep into the dynamic world of modern Indian politics with a curated selection of five influential books that offer unique insights and perspectives. From historical analyses to contemporary critiques, these books serve as essential guides for anyone seeking to enrich their understanding of India's political landscape. Explore the intricacies of power, governance, ideologies, and societal changes that shape India's political discourse today. Whether you're a student, a researcher, or a curious reader, this collection promises to broaden your knowledge and provoke thoughtful discussions about the complexities of Indian politics.
Check them out here.
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