Aaquib Wani
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#HGStreams: Gandhi’s Handloom Gets A Special Makeover In Aaquib Wani’s ‘Embracing Khaadi’

Meghna Mathew

In a pre-Independence India when hope was bleak and courage was sparse, there were a few individuals who made contributions in ways that are valued even now. Their beacon of positivity, whether it be through the words they spoke or the actions they performed, still resonates with Indians in times of darkness.

Experiential designer and art director, Aaquib Wani created an installation paying homage to Mahatma Gandhi and his fondness of Khaadi, a fabric that is symbolic of our independence. In a beautifully crafted video titled ‘Embracing Khaadi’, the designer and his team are seen working hard to put up an installation of a Charkha in honour of the Father of the Nation. As one spins the wheel of the Charkha (spinning wheel), a fabric embroidered with Gandhi’s profound teachings is lowered upon them.

The team says, “The environmental consciousness of the fabric has been a timeless reminder of its versatility. This experiential installation aims to envelop the audience with the cloth and the craft behind it. Spin the Charkha and immerse yourself into the world of Gandhi.”

The video of the experiential art installation process was made by Siddharth Kay, aptly accompanied with music by eclectic fusion band, Advaita. Not only does the video capture the hard and smart work that the intricate installation required, it also brings out the team’s love for what they do, and why they do it.

Produced by The Metal Arts and powered by 2626 Creative Studio, ‘Embracing Khaadi’, is a true tribute to Gandhi in a never seen before form.

You can find Aaquib Wani here.

You can find Siddharth Kay here.

You can find Advaita here.

You can find 2626 Creative Studio here.

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