Tasveer Dekhi Kya?
Tasveer Dekhi Kya?
Mumbai's Khooni Halloween; 19th Tasveer Film Festival; The Revolutionary Sound of Bloodywood; and more.
Hello there! Welcome to DIZI’s newsletter. This week, we’ve curated a desi Halloween for you, and introduced you to some inspiring artists who are making big waves in their respective arenas. And finally, we shall showcase some baskets made from weed (hold your horses, there, for we shall shortly explain!) On that note, let’s begin!
1. Mumbai's Khooni Halloween: A Quirky Celebration
Welcome to the khooni gullies of Mumbai, courtesy The Wench Film Festival, which has created a Halloween lineup so wild that even zombies would be scared.
Picture this: wedding guests gathering to attend India’s first ever vampire wedding! Or a gathering of makeup enthusiasts getting together to learn at India’s first ever Halloween costume workshop! Or perhaps the most ultimate — India’s first ever Zombie pub crawl with Zombie makeup!
A Wench with a Cause
What’s in a name, one might ask? Although the word "wench" might raise some eyebrows, here it’s a badge of honor!
As part of a larger vision, the festival aims to cultivate a community of horror lovers in India as well as around the world. So, grab your zombie outfits, embrace the quirkiness, and dive into a horror adventure that promises to leave you both entertained and enlightened. For this isn’t just an event by Wench Film Festival; it’s a joyous rallying cry for horror storytellers and story-lovers alike!
2. 19th Tasveer Film Festival: A Cinematic Extravaganza!
Welcome to the 19th Tasveer Film Festival, where the lights are bright, the popcorn is popping, and South Asian stories are ready to take center stage! This year’s festival promises a vibrant mix of films that reflect the region's diverse tapestry—think romance, drama, and a dash of quirky humor!
Film Lineup Highlights
1. Places I've called My Own - Dive into this powerful Nepali film by Kiran Kadayat about LGBTQIA+identity, especially in the conservative South Asian context.
2. Cow Heavy and Floral: This dramedy by Richa Rudola is about a postpartum writer struggling to make a deadline as she experiences an identity crisis between her various personas.
3. Lice: This short film by Vindhya Gupta is about girl bonding, with an interesting subplot — of a lice infestation! 12-year-old Roshni forges a bond with the class outcast, Chakor, to keep her lice infestation a secret. The malicious lie looms large over Roshni as a real friendship blossoms between them.
4. Blue Boy: A critically acclaimed film by Nik Dodani, this film is about LGBTQIA identity. After having an otherworldly vision, a mischievous 12-year-old convinces himself he's the reincarnation of Krishna. His life is upended when he comes out to his parents as a god. You know kids these days — I identify myself as …. GOD!
Based on the award-winning novel by Rakesh Satyal, BLUE BOY is a sweet coming-of-age story about a boy with a vibrant imagination living in the droll American suburbs of the early 90s.
A Platform for South Asian Cinema
The 19th Tasveer Film Festival isn’t just a film showcase; it’s a celebration of the myriad voices and stories that make South Asian cinema so rich and vibrant! By spotlighting underrepresented filmmakers and their unique narratives, the festival creates a crucial space for dialogue, reflection, and cultural exchange. It champions diversity, pushing boundaries and breaking stereotypes, all while inviting audiences to engage with thought-provoking content.
The Tasveer Film Festival is not just about watching films; it’s about celebrating the heart and soul of South Asian storytelling! 🎬✨
3. Bloodywood: The Revolutionary Sound of New Delhi
Bloodywood, the dynamic band hailing from New Delhi, is shaking up the South Asian music scene with its unique blend of folk metal and social commentary. Founded in 2016, the group quickly gained attention for their energetic performances and powerful lyrics that tackle issues like inequality, oppression, and mental health.
A Fusion of Cultures
What sets Bloodywood apart is their innovative fusion of traditional Indian instruments, like the dhol and flute, with heavy metal riffs and energetic vocals. This distinctive sound not only appeals to metal enthusiasts but also introduces a broader audience to the rich tapestry of Indian musical heritage.
A Voice for Change
Bloodywood’s importance in South Asia extends beyond music. Their lyrics are imbued with a sense of urgency, addressing societal challenges and advocating for change. Songs like "Gully Gang" and "Machi Bhasad" highlight issues faced by youth, encouraging listeners to stand up against injustice. By using their platform to amplify these messages, the band has become a voice for the disenfranchised and an inspiration for aspiring artists.
Global Reach, Local Roots
With a growing international following, Bloodywood has proven that South Asian music can resonate globally. Their viral hits on platforms like YouTube have attracted fans from all over the world, showcasing the power of music to transcend borders. Yet, they remain deeply connected to their roots, often drawing inspiration from local experiences and cultural narratives.
In a region rich with musical diversity, Bloodywood stands out as a revolutionary force, blending genres and messages in a way that captivates and empowers. As they continue to push boundaries, their impact on the South Asian music landscape and beyond is undeniable, inspiring a new generation to harness the power of music as a tool for change. We say, it’s Bloodygood!
4. Artist of the Week: Shahzia Sikander —Pioneering Contemporary Art in South Asia
Shazia Sikander is a trailblazing artist from Pakistan whose work has redefined the boundaries of contemporary art in South Asia. Known for her innovative approach to traditional miniature painting, Sikander blends historical techniques with modern themes, creating a unique fusion that resonates with a global audience.
Reimagining Tradition
Sikander's art often explores themes of identity, gender, and cultural heritage. By incorporating elements of South Asian folklore and mythology, she breathes new life into classical miniature art, challenging the rigid conventions of the genre. Her use of vibrant colors and intricate details invites viewers to engage with her pieces on multiple levels, encouraging a dialogue about the complexities of contemporary society.
A Voice for Change
The relevance of Sikander’s work extends beyond aesthetics. She addresses pressing social issues, including gender inequality and cultural dislocation, making her art a powerful vehicle for commentary and change. Through installations, animations, and large-scale works, she creates immersive experiences that provoke thought and inspire activism.
Global Influence
Sikander’s international acclaim has positioned her as a significant figure in the global art world, yet her roots in South Asian culture remain a central aspect of her identity. By bridging cultural divides, she challenges stereotypes and fosters a greater understanding of the rich tapestry of South Asian experiences.
A Catalyst for Dialogue
In a rapidly changing world, Shazia Sikander’s work serves as a catalyst for dialogue around identity, culture, and the role of women in society. Her contributions to contemporary art not only enrich South Asian artistic narratives but also invite global audiences to reconsider their perspectives, making her a vital force in the art world today.
5. Tam Kaur: The Voice Making Us Self-Obsessed!
Tam Kaur is an emerging talent in the world of audiobooks, captivating listeners with her rich storytelling and emotive narration. Her recent podcast, Self Obsessed, has garnered attention for its rather in-your-face title.
However, the podcast has been positioned as the “ultimate guide in learning how to be self-obsessed.” As host Tam Kaur says, “After all, it’s only about prioritising your self-love, self-care, self-confidence, self-worth and self-growth.”
‘Self-Obsessed’ simplifies the process of closing the gap between your current self and your desired self with every episode offering a carefully curated guide to help women everywhere fall in love with themselves.
As a South Asian prominent voice in the self-help space, Tam is definitely turning a lot of decibel levels up with her authentic voice. It remains to be seen, however, whether the podcast will turn you into your own idol!
6. Sustainable Craftsmanship: Hyderabad's Water Hyacinth Baskets
In the heart of Hyderabad, a remarkable company is turning environmental challenges into beautiful opportunities by creating stunning baskets from water hyacinth. This invasive plant, often seen as a nuisance in waterways, is being transformed into eco-friendly, artisanal products that are both functional and stylish. Although water hyacinth products are common in Northeast India, this is perhaps the first of its kind intervention in Hyderabad!
Nonetheless, each piece not only showcases exquisite craftsmanship but also highlights the importance of recycling and using natural materials. By repurposing this abundant plant, they contribute to cleaner water bodies while providing livelihoods for local communities.
Lifestyle product range made from water hyacinth includes everything from decorative baskets to practical storage solutions, appealing to eco-conscious consumers looking for unique, sustainable home decor. On a larger scale, this not only promotes environmental awareness but also fosters a sense of pride in local craftsmanship, making it a shining example of innovation and sustainability in action.
We can’t wait for design enthusiasts all over South Asia to come up with more stylish and innovative lifestyle products that also benefit the environment — are you with us on that?!