This Week In Culture: Brutalist Home Decor, A Comic Book On Indian Food, & Much More

Welcome to this week's edition of Homegrown's Culture Bulletin! It's scorching hot out there, So, grab a cool drink, kick back, and let's dive into what the creatives of India are cooking up this Summer. We've got a design activism exhibition stirring up political conversations this election year, some cute new swimwear brands for some beach time, a documentary film exploring Buddhist heritage, an upcoming punk gig that's sure to rock your socks off, a brutalist, concrete home decor brand to elevate the aesthetics of your space, a Sohrai painting workshop and a comic book serving up delicious insights into Indian food and cuisine.

DHARMA - The Story of Ladakh's Buddhist Legacy

Abhishek Sachidanandan's documentary delves into the profound spiritual and cultural tapestry of Ladakh, a remote Himalayan region steeped in Buddhism. Through vibrant depictions of Ladakh's Buddhist festivals like the Matho Nagrang Festival, the film showcases the community's deep-rooted devotion and cultural affirmation. Beyond the festivities, 'DHARMA' explores the everyday lives of Ladakhi people, revealing how Buddhist teachings infuse every moment with meaning and a sense of community over material wealth. This introspective journey invites viewers to reflect on their own values and the importance of preserving diverse cultural heritage, making 'DHARMA' a poignant window into the timeless wisdom and resilience of Ladakh's Buddhist legacy.

Check it out here.

The Fellowship Of Food By Comixense

The comic series by Comixense is a delightful journey into the heart of Indian cuisine and culture. Through its engaging storytelling and captivating illustrations, this quarterly magazine dispels the oversimplified notions of North-South culinary divides in India, highlighting the rich diversity and traditions within regional cuisines. The latest edition, themed around the multifaceted role of food in our lives, delves into stories from Assam's delicate food choices amidst religious and cultural nuances to the global issue of hunger and the solace found in community kitchens. Each narrative, whether exploring the elaborate Kashmiri wazwaan feast or the fusion of Tibetan, Nepali, and Lepcha influences in Sikkimese cuisine, celebrates the emotional, cultural, and social dimensions of food while fostering a deeper appreciation for India's culinary heritage among young readers.

Check it out here.

It's Not A Phase, Mom At antiSOCIAL Pune

This DIY concert series is a night dedicated to punk, emo, and alternative music on and promises a haven for wallflowers, non-conformists, and alt kids to revel in the angst-driven anthems of outcast subcultures. Featuring a diverse lineup ranging from up-and-coming bands like Emobilize, blending emo and punk rock seamlessly, to established acts like REN and Asterea with their infectious energy and alt-rock prowess, this event celebrates the raw essence and unadulterated spirit of punk without any frills or gimmicks. It's a night where joy, sadness, and rage find expression amidst a community that embraces the rebellious ethos of punk culture.

Book your tickets here.

Gandi Baat At 47-A Mumbai

'Gandi Baat' emerges as a transformative exhibition, blending design activism with political discourse to reignite vibrant discussions on crucial societal issues. Curated by Swarup Dutta, this interdisciplinary endeavor features a diverse lineup of artists such as Abhishek Ray, Soumitra Adhikari, and Achira Basu, who contribute unique perspectives through mediums like ceramics, textiles, and installations. The exhibition's fusion of artistic flair and political insight transcends visual aesthetics, aiming to spark meaningful dialogue, introspection, and activism among viewers. 'Gandi Baat' serves as a poignant call to action, celebrating the transformative power of design in shaping a more informed and empowered society.

Check it out here.

Material Immaterial Studio

Material Immaterial Studio, led by designers Nitin Barchha and Disney Davis, embodies the essence of simplicity and raw beauty in design. Inspired by minimalism and the Brutalist movement, their creations from home decor to jewellery and furniture reflect a harmonious blend of brutalist art and minimalist aesthetics. The studio's meticulous handcrafting process ensures each piece is a collectible, blurring the boundaries between art and functionality.

Check it out here.

Homegrown Swimwear Brands

Summer brings with it the joy of swimming and soaking up the sun, with the belief that there's no such thing as a "beach body" - just grab a cute swimsuit and dive in! In India, a wave of homegrown swim and resort wear labels has emerged, offering a range of options that cater to diverse needs, purposes, and style sensibilities. These brands have captured our attention with their unique designs and commitment to quality along with their blend of comfort, style, and functionality, making every splash and swim a fashionable delight.

Check them out here.

Barroom By We Idliwale, Pune

Barroom Pune seamlessly blends the vibrant flavors of South Indian cuisine with the artistry of mixology and fine dining, creating a culinary haven that celebrates tradition with a contemporary twist. From innovative cocktails like the Raw Mango Picante and Coconut Negroni to tantalizing small plates like podi bacon and Trichy Bheja, Barroom offers a symphony of flavors that delight the senses. The ambiance, adorned with channapatna bead decorations and athangudi-tiled floors, transports diners to the bustling streets of South India, creating an immersive experience that complements the culinary journey.

Check it out here.

Sohrai Painting Workshop By Manikchand Mahto

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Jharkhand's Sohrai art form at the upcoming Sohrai Painting Workshop on May 12, 2024. Led by the esteemed artisan Manikchand Mahto from Jharkhand, this unique workshop offers participants the opportunity to create their very own Sohrai masterpiece. Held at The Museum Plaza in Dr Bhau Daji Lad Museum, Mumbai, from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm, the workshop provides a hands-on experience in this dynamic art form that blends ancient traditions with contemporary expressions.

Check it out here.

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