As a Culture Writer, there are some weeks when the hardest part is figuring out what to even write about, to have something to say. But this week hasn’t been one of those. In just a few days, I’ve written about censorship, undemocratic government control, and the same old misogyny and gender roles that keep showing up in new packaging. Some would call it a productive week, with outrage just pouring of me. But it has also been a bit much, honestly; important, but exhausting.
And when things feel like that, I usually try to switch off. Watch a film, listen to music, rejuvenate. But even that feels compromised now. My favourite actors and directors are all turning out to be problematic people. The music comes from platforms where the CEO is apparently investing in military AI during an actual genocide. And every time I try to use food as an outlet, The @foodfarmer shows up on my feed telling me nothing is healthy.
The range of experiences that feel meaningful, and even just safe to enjoy, keeps getting smaller. Every time you turn to something for comfort, it comes with a new disclaimer of why it isn't good for you. But if there’s one thing I still have faith in, it’s art. There will always be artists making things that cut through the noise, even when everything else feels impossible. And thankfully, we have a massive database of art and artists we’ve written about, who you can rely on for a break, a perspective shift, or even just a moment of beauty. Here's what we have for you this week:
'Moti' By Yash Saraf
In this Bengali short film set in Kolkata during the early days of the COVID‑19 lockdown, a family finds their world turned upside‑down when their beloved pet dog inexplicably transforms into a human boy. Initially played for subtle absurdity, the premise deepens into a resonant allegory for the alienation and sensory disorientation wrought by pandemic life.
Watch its trailer here.
'Pageyta Pugey' By Alva Kuuto
Bengaluru-based Tulu rock band Alva Kuuto's new track channels the anatomy of rage through a bloodbath music video, reflecting how vengeance consumes a person. With gritty Tulu lyrics, retro rock sounds, and theatrical storytelling, the band captures the emotional volatility of anger and masculinity. The video’s stylized chaos and folklore-infused violence underline their mission to reclaim Tulu in contemporary music.
Watch it here.
Snoops On A Train By Ritesh Uttamchandani
Ritesh's latest softcover zine captures quiet moments of unintentional intimacy on Mumbai’s local trains — specifically the act of strangers reading over each other’s shoulders. It turns a mundane habit into a gentle study of observation, closeness, and the shared space of public transit.
Buy it here.
Cherrapunji Eastern Craft Gin By Raincheck Earth Co
Spearheaded by founder‑distiller Mayukh Hazarika, this is India’s first gin distilled using sustainably harvested rainwater and infused with twelve native botanicals from Meghalaya and the Eastern Himalayas. The spirit is a vivid expression of the region’s terroir like bright citrus notes from Khasi mandarin and Assam’s Kaji lima, a creamy juniper base, and a touch of smoke, making it a true taste of the Himalayas.
Get it here.
'Into The Wild' Farmhouse By Earthscape Studio
This eco‑farmhouse, located in Mettupalayam, Tamil Nadu is designed to dissolve into its surroundings rather than impose upon them. The 2 BHK structure uses a fluid "fold architecture" technique that forms a circular shape. With natural ventilation, lush landscaping that hugs the building, and in‑built furnishings crafted from local materials, the home blurs the boundary between structure and landscape while staying cool and sustainable.
Read about it here.
Not Dead Yet By Misfits Inc.
Not Dead Yet, a Thursday night residency by Misfits Inc., returns to antiSOCIAL Mumbai from July 31 to August 21. The four curated gigs aim to spotlight India’s genre-fluid music scene with acts like Jonathan Yhome, The Supersonics, EXCISE DEPT., and the launch of House of Hashbass Vol. Championing live performances from artists across the series reflects Misfits Inc.’s commitment to bold curation and underground sound.
Get your tickets here.
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Growing Up On YouTube: How Indian Gen Zers Found Their Identity Amidst Digital Chaos
For Thee But Not For Me: It's Time We Examine The Double Standards Of Indian Censorship
IIT Kharagpur’s ‘Campus Mothers’ Initiative Misses The Point Entirely