Editor's Pick
Figures Etched In Stone: The Life and Work of Sudarshan Sahoo
Look back at the life and philosophy of Sudarshan Sahoo, a celebrated sculptor from Odisha and a recent recipient of the Padma Vibhushan.
Stone sculptures have been a hallmark of Odisha’s cultural and artistic traditions and, for the longest time, Sudarshan Sahoo, a celebrated sculptor, has not only been contributing remarkable sculpted pieces to the traditional craft but has also been taking immense pains to keep it alive and engaging for the new generation of artists. It is, indeed, an unfortunate truth that, sometimes, the perseverance and work put in by artists is gone unnoticed. In attempting to achieve that recognition for their creative pieces alone, most creators do not get recognized for the actual effort behind the artistic work. That tremendous unrecognized effort and work is what Sahoo is attempting to get supported and nurtured.
Born in 1939, in Puri, Sahoo was always enamoured with the temples in his city. The city and its architecture, both, served as inspirations to him. When he first decided to try his hands in it, he began with carving miniature temples out of stone. His mother and brother were among the first people to see his work and, seeing the potential in him, they encouraged him. That was the first step into him becoming the artist he is today. Later, he trained under master sculptors, Bhubaneswar Mohapatra and Kunia Moharana, to further polish his latent skill.
There is in Sahoo an urgency to create artistic pieces, not for himself, but for posterity. He recognizes that an artist, whether it be a sculptor or a painter, never truly creates for themself but for others and the upcoming generations. However, it is not with the intent of mere recognition that Sahoo creates his sculptures. For him, engaging with anything artistic should be for the sole purpose of creating. In doing so, an artist, according to him, attains liberty.
It is a philosophy that has served him well. The recipient of numerous awards, Sahoo received the National Award for Stone Carving in 1981, at the age of 42. Seven years later, in 1988, he was awarded the Padma Shri and, in 2003, the Shilp Guru Award. Just this year, on the 72nd Republic Day, Sahoo was among the seven individuals who were named as recipients of the Padma Vibhushan.
This recognition has not come without significant effort and accomplishments. Sahoo is renowned for his work on a global scale, with him being a frequent visitor to other countries for showcasing his work. Indeed, a sculpted panel of his was installed in 1978 in Atami, Japan. Additionally, a stone panel based around the life of Buddha was installed in Milton Keynes, London, in 1980. However, his most lauded accomplishment, ironic as it may seem, is not his sculptures but the establishment of Sudarshan Crafts Museum, in 1977, and later, the Sudarshan Arts and Crafts Village in 1991.
A project supported by the Government of Odisha, the Sudarshan Arts and Crafts Village is an institution, following the Gurukul system of learning, aimed at preserving the traditional craft of sculpting in Odisha and training future craftsmen in creating sculptures with wood, stone and fibreglass. The institution provides its craftsmen with all the facilities, including a free of cost boarding facility, needed to bring about a wholesome environment for them to pursue the craft.
For Sahoo, this is something close to his heart. It represents the act of preserving and perpetuating his passion and craft for the future generations to see, appreciate and honor.
Editor's Pick
Srikanth: When Running Is No Longer An Option
Srikanth by director Tushar Hiranandani brings to the silver screen the real-life story of inspirational Indian industrialist Srikanth Bolla.
It’s easier to give up than fight at times. Fighting requires you to use up a lot of energy but giving up not so much. It’s easier to bend to the whims of the world than to fight against the tide. But what can one do when fighting back is the only option one is left with? Directed by Tushar Hiranandani, the film, Srikanth, tells the story of real-life highly successful Indian industrialist and MIT’s first visually impaired student Srikanth Bolla who just refused to settle as according to him running away is not an option as he can’t see where he is running to.
Srikanth: A Closer Look
A movie that captures the raw reality of the world with just the right amount of fiction is what aptly describes Srikanth. Starting from the moment Srikanth Bolla was born till he became a leading industrialist in India, all the tiny and major incidents in his life that made him what he is today are beautifully captured by director Tushar Hiranandani and beautifully executed by Rajkumar Rao who played the role of Srikanth Bolla in the film.
Being born and brought up in a tiny village to humble farmers in Andhra Pradesh to fighting with the Indian education system for his right to study the subject he wants to ensuring that blind people have equal opportunities to work like non-visually impaired people, Srikanth’s journey was filled with hurdles. Sometimes these hurdles were even more than what a person deemed as “normal” by society may face. These problems were not just problems that were caused by his blindness but problems that were created by a system which still thinks that differently-abled people are incapable of certain things although recent technical advancements that help them be at par with others have proven otherwise.
Despite all these hurdles, the one thing that didn’t change about Srikanth Bolla is his attitude towards life. Never in his entire life did he decide to just end it although the world gave him more than enough reasons to on certain occasions. He marched forward and fought hard as according to him, running away for a blind person who couldn’t even see where he was running to was not an option. And by going against the tide he ensured others also didn’t fear away from doing the same.
The best thing about the film is that it captured reality in its true essence. It didn’t just highlight Srikanth Bolla’s perfections but also his imperfections. No matter how inspiring he was, at the end of the day he was still a human who is not immune to human flaws. What makes this film a truly exceptional biopic is how it highlights his flaws and how he got over them.
Afterword
Life isn’t always fair. But whether to just sit and crib about it or to do something about it is in our hands. We won’t always succeed, but when we do history will forever remember us. Srikanth Bolla was one such man, he refused to play the cards that were handed to him by life for he knew he deserved much better. Apart from the movie Srikanth, if you are curious to know more about this legend, check out our article on him here.
Editor's Pick
Remembering Dr. R. Sathyanarayana
Dr R Sathyanarayana: A Musical Maestro and Scholar- Honoring the legacy of a renowned musicologist and dance scholar
Dr R Sathyanarayana was a disused musicologist and dance scholar from Mysore, India. He has left an indelible mark on the world of arts and academia. His illustrious career spanned decades, marked by scholarly contributions, prestigious awards and unwavering dedication to enriching Indian classical music and dance.
Dr R Sathyanarayana, born on May 9th, 1927, in Ramanagara, began his journey towards shaping the cultural landscape of India. His academic pursuits were diverse and impressive, ranging from a Master’s in Chemistry from the University of Mysore to multiple D.Litt degrees from esteemed universities such as Mysore University, Hampi University, and Gangibhai Hangal Music University of Mysore.
Dr R Sathyanarayana’s career was a testament to his unwavering passion for science and the arts. From 1949 to 1984, he served as a dedicated professor of chemistry at Sarada Vilas College, all the while imparting knowledge of Karnataka music. His interests extended beyond the classroom, as he authored numerous treatises on dance and music in Sanskrit, including notable works such as “Pundarikamala”. “Shruti: The Scalic Foundation”, and “Karnataka Sangeetha Vahini”.
Dr R Sathyanarayana was honoured with prestigious accolades, including the Padma Shri civilian honour the President of India bestowed upon him in 2018. His influence earned him international acclaim as an eminent musicologist and danceologist.
Dr R Sathyanarayana’s scholarly legacy lives on through his extensive work, comprising over 20,000 printed pages of research papers, books, translations and more. His profound impact on Indian classical Music and dance earned him accolades such as the Karnataka Rajyotsava Award, the Fellow of Sangeet Natak Akademi and the Rajya Sangeet Vidwan Award.
Dr R Sathyanarayana’s influence extended far beyond his academic achievements. He resonated deeply with the artistic community as a mentor and public speaker. He nurtured countless disciples and captivated audiences in creative circles, government-sponsored music festivals, and international seminars.
We honour the titan of Indian classical music and dance, Dr R Sathyanarayana’s enduring legacy. His contributions have enriched our cultural heritage and inspired generations of musicians, scholars and enthusiasts. Though he may have departed from this world, his melodies and teachings will continue to echo through the corridors of time, ensuring that his legacy remains eternally enshrined in the hearts of Indian classical artists.
Editor's Pick
Manch by Tape A Tale: A Global Poetry & Storytelling Event
Tape A Tale takes the captivating words of Indian artists like Nayab Midha and Amandeep Singh global with “Manch”.
Words were thought of as the mightiest of all weapons. But with time it so happened that those poets and writers who used to make life worth living started to fade in recognition. Going from a time when people used to arrange “Ghazal” meets and poetry recitations to being holed up at offices from 9-8 pm and barely having time to listen to such masterpieces, technology changed the way art is perceived and appreciated in the modern age. But a few old souls for whom words still hold the power to bewitch the mind like the sound of the Pied Piper of Hamelin, have finally managed to spread their message worldwide. With “Manch” by Tape A Tale, in Melbourne, Australia, from 13th-14th April 2024 Nayab Midha and Amandeep Singh took us back to those glory days of words with their words on a physical tour outside of India.
Australia Tour
Thanks to the power of social media, the storytelling and poetry scene in India has been getting an ever-growing fan base. From small open mics to auditoriums filled with people, Indians have finally realised the beauty and power of words that used to hold an entire generation before them in a trance. The revival of this forgotten art did come with its own fusions to suit today’s time but that just goes to show the power of literature that breaks set established norms and categories for the sake of expression.
Taking this revival one step forward, Tape A Tale organised “Manch” a storytelling poetry and music event in Melbourne, Australia from 13th-14th April 2024, for all the Indian fans living abroad who were eagerly waiting to meet the young writers from India who reignited their love for poetry and storytelling. Taking the stage with their captivating tales and mesmerising words, Nayab Midha and Amandeep Singh kick-started the highly awaited event in the poetry storytelling scene. Both Nayab Midha (writer of the poem Khubsoorat) and Amandeep Singh are well-established poets and storytellers in India and carry the beacon of modern poetry and storytelling with them. They both have done solo tours in India titled “Rajkumari” and “Pluto”. Further to encourage the local artists, they shared the stage with a few local artists from Australia to help them get the exposure their brilliant work truly deserves. The local artist lineup included Shefali Malandkar, Aman Punia, Priyanka Rajwani, Kirti Rawat, Ravita Kamra and Akshay Sindwani.
What To Expect Now?
Two unforgettable days in Australia, marked just the beginning of this journey to spread the influence of words that is bound to release today’s sedentary and mundane lives and help them realise the forgotten glory of art. “Manch” by Tape A Tale was a one-of-a-kind tour that reassured millions who were hesitating to spread their written works such as poetry and storytelling to the world. With this international tour Tape A Tale managed to set the benchmark high for the scope of making such unconventional career options a reality.
Refusing to cap creativity with just this one international tour “Manch” will be taking their international tour forward by organising it in the UK and Ireland, in London and Dublin between 24th-26th May 2024 with Nayab Midha, Amandeep Singh and Yahya Bootwala.
Book your tickets now!
Editor's Pick
Satyajit Ray: Author And Filmmaker
Celebrating the Legacy with a profound sense of awe and respect for a Visionary Filmmaker and Author- Satyajit Ray
When we hear Satyajit Ray, we are filled with a profound sense of awe and respect for the man whose works continue to inspire generations. Born on May 2, 1921, in the vibrant city of Calcutta, he emerged as a luminary in Bengali cinema, leaving an indelible mark on the global cinematic landscape.
Ray’s entry into the world of cinema was marked by a fortuitous encounter with French film director Jean Renoir during “The River” filming in Calcutta in 1949. This meeting, coupled with his exposure to Vittorio De Sica’s “Bicycle Thieves” in London the following year, ignited his passion for storytelling through film.
In 1955, Ray made his directing debut with “Pather Panchali,” a film that would not only revolutionise Indian cinema but also captivate audiences worldwide. Over the years of his illustrious career, Ray directed 36 films, ranging from feature films to short films and documentaries. Each of his creations bore the hallmarks of his unique vision, craftsmanship, and deep understanding of human emotions.
While Satyajit Ray’s work gathered widespread critical acclaim, it also faced its fair share of controversies. His films “Pather Panchali” and “Ashani Sanket” were harshly criticised for allegedly portraying poverty and distorting India’s image abroad. Yet, Ray’s unwavering commitment to authentic storytelling and cinematic excellence, despite these challenges, is truly inspiring.
One of Satyajit Ray’s most iconic achievements is the “Apu Trilogy”, consisting of “Pather Panchali”, “Aparajio”, and “Apur Sansar”. Time magazine recognised the trilogy as one of the “All-Time 100 Movies” in 2005, solidifying its status as a cinematic masterpiece for the ages.
Beyond his filmmaking, Satyajit Ray was a true Renaissance man. He composed music, wrote screenplays and authored numerous short stories and novels, many of which were beloved by children and adolescents. His writing, often filled with wonder and nostalgia, was a testament to his deep connection to his Bengali heritage and his innate storytelling ability.
Ray’s influence went beyond his native country, India. He is resonating with filmmakers worldwide. His visionary storytelling and unwavering commitment to artistic integrity have left an indelible mark on Wes Anderson, Martin Scorsese, François Truffaut and Christopher Nolan, among others. His legacy, a testament to the power of storytelling, continues to captivate audiences across the globe.
Editor's Pick
From FOMO to JOMO
From “Fear of missing out” to “Joy of missing out”, find contentment in your own experiences, whether shared or solitary.
Have you ever been in a situation where you feared you’re missing out on something? Maybe you see your friends posting stories of hanging out together and you suddenly feel down, sad and lonely. This feeling of being left out is Fomo.
Fomo refers to the “Fear of Missing Out”, where a person feels the need to be a part of something and feels unpleasant about seeing something happening without their presence. FOMO, or Fear of Missing Out, is common in today’s interconnected world. It can strike when you see others enjoying experiences you’re not part of, whether friends hanging out or colleagues attending an event. The fear of being left behind or not included can lead to feelings of sadness, loneliness, and inadequacy. Social media often exacerbates FOMO with its constant stream of curated highlights from others’ lives. Overcoming FOMO involves recognising that everyone’s journey is different and finding contentment in your own experiences, whether shared or solitary.
Psychological impact of FOMO
1. Anxiety and Stress: Imagine scrolling through social media and seeing your friends attending a concert you didn’t know about. Suddenly, you feel anxious about not being there, worrying about what you’re missing out on and whether you’ll still be included in future plans. FOMO can trigger anxiety and stress as individuals constantly worry about missing out on experiences or opportunities. The fear of not measuring up to others’ standards or being left behind can lead to persistent feelings of unease and tension, impacting mental well-being.
2. Decreased Self-Esteem: You come across photos of your acquaintances on a luxurious vacation while you’re stuck at home. You start questioning your own worth and accomplishments, feeling inferior because your life doesn’t seem as glamorous or exciting. Constant exposure to others’ seemingly exciting lives on social media can diminish self-esteem. Comparing oneself to others’ highlight reels often leads to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt, eroding confidence over time.
3. Social Isolation: Paradoxically, FOMO can contribute to social isolation. Fear of missing out can lead individuals to prioritize online interactions over real-life connections, ultimately distancing themselves from meaningful relationships and experiences. You decline invitations to social events because you’re constantly monitoring social media, afraid of missing out on updates or opportunities. Over time, you find yourself spending more time online than engaging in real-life interactions, leading to a sense of loneliness and disconnection.
4. Poor Decision Making: FOMO can influence decision-making processes, leading to impulsive behavior. Individuals may make choices based on the fear of missing out rather than on their genuine desires or values, potentially leading to regrettable outcomes. You impulsively purchase concert tickets for a band you’re not particularly interested in because you’re afraid of missing out on the experience your friends are excited about. Later, you realize you’ve wasted money on something that didn’t align with your true preferences or values.
5. Dissatisfaction and Discontent: Continuously chasing after experiences to avoid missing out can result in a perpetual sense of dissatisfaction. Despite participating in various activities, individuals may still feel unfulfilled, as the underlying fear of missing out prevents them from appreciating the present moment. Despite attending numerous events and activities, you can’t shake the feeling that something is missing. You’re constantly searching for the next big thing to be a part of, unable to fully enjoy or appreciate the present moment because you’re preoccupied with what you might be missing elsewhere.
What is Jomo?
While FOMO is straining and exhausting, there is a new approach to missing out on things called JOMO, or “Joy of Missing Out”. JOMO, or the “Joy of Missing Out,” is a refreshing counter to the anxiety and stress caused by FOMO. It’s about embracing the idea that missing out on specific events or experiences is okay and finding contentment in your choices. Rather than constantly feeling pressure to be part of every social gathering or activity, JOMO encourages individuals to prioritise their well-being and happiness.
At its core, JOMO is about cultivating a sense of fulfilment and peace by focusing on what truly matters to you. It involves being present at the moment and savouring the joy of solitude, self-care, and meaningful connections. Instead of anxiously scrolling through social media feeds to see what others are doing, those embracing JOMO take pleasure in life’s simple pleasures, whether it’s enjoying a quiet evening at home, pursuing a hobby, or spending quality time with loved ones. By embracing the joy of missing out on specific events or activities, individuals may experience reduced stress, anxiety, and overwhelm. Instead of constantly comparing themselves to others or needing to keep up with the latest trends, they can cultivate a sense of inner peace and contentment, appreciating the richness of their lives. JOMO is a mindset shift that celebrates the beauty of being present, embracing solitude, and finding joy in the moments of life that others might overlook. It encourages individuals to slow down, unplug from the world’s constant noise, and reconnect with themselves and the things that truly bring them happiness. By embracing JOMO, people can create a more balanced and fulfilling life that prioritises their well-being and inner peace.
How to turn FOMO to JOMO?
It is certainly possible to turn FOMO to JOMO while accepting one’s own shortcomings and enjoy what gives happiness while practicing the following steps.
1. Practice Mindfulness: Cultivate awareness of your thoughts and emotions when experiencing FOMO. Instead of allowing FOMO to dictate your actions, pause and reflect on what truly brings you joy and fulfillment. Mindfulness techniques such as meditation or journaling can help you reconnect with your values and priorities, allowing you to make decisions from a place of authenticity rather than fear.
2. Set Boundaries: Learn to say no to activities or invitations that don’t align with your values or goals. Establishing boundaries empowers you to prioritize self-care and meaningful experiences, reducing the pressure to constantly be part of every social gathering or event. By honoring your boundaries, you can create space for the activities and relationships that truly bring you joy and fulfillment.
3. Practice Gratitude: Shift your focus from what you’re missing out on to what you’re grateful for in the present moment. Keep a gratitude journal or regularly reflect on the blessings in your life, whether it’s cherished relationships, personal accomplishments, or moments of serenity. Cultivating gratitude can help you appreciate the richness of your own experiences and find joy in the moments that others might overlook, turning FOMO into a celebration of the joy of missing out.
In conclusion, the journey from FOMO to JOMO represents a profound shift in mindset that has the potential to impact our well-being and overall satisfaction with life profoundly. By recognising the detrimental effects of FOMO and embracing the principles of JOMO, individuals can take over their experiences, relationships, and happiness. Through mindfulness, individuals can cultivate a more profound sense of self-awareness and intentionality, allowing them to make choices that align with their values and priorities. Setting boundaries becomes a powerful tool for preserving energy and focusing on what truly matters, fostering a sense of empowerment and autonomy. Additionally, practising gratitude serves as a powerful antidote to the constant cycle of comparison and dissatisfaction, helping individuals find joy and fulfilment in the present moment. Therefore, the significance of turning FOMO into JOMO lies in its ability to foster a more balanced, meaningful, and fulfilling life. It encourages us to shift our focus from external validation and fleeting experiences to the richness of our inner world and the connections that truly nourish us. By embracing the joy of missing out on certain activities or events, we open ourselves up to a world of possibility and serenity, free from the pressures of constant comparison and competition. In embracing JOMO, we discover that true happiness lies not in chasing after every opportunity but in savouring the moments of quiet contentment, deep connection, and authentic self-expression that make life truly meaningful.
-
Editor's Pick3 weeks ago
Brij Narayan: Mastering the Melody of Sarod
-
Editor's Pick3 weeks ago
Social Conformity in Teenagers
-
Editor's Pick2 weeks ago
Parkinson’s Awareness Month
-
Dance2 weeks ago
Lively Dance Compilation: International Dance Day
-
Editor's Pick1 week ago
Manch by Tape A Tale: A Global Poetry & Storytelling Event
-
Editor's Pick2 weeks ago
Satyajit Ray: Author And Filmmaker
-
Editor's Pick2 weeks ago
From FOMO to JOMO
-
Short Films2 weeks ago
Reduva: A Tale of An Old Man and His Radio