Revisiting Cultural practices in Southern Tamil Nadu
This photo-shoot aims to capture the rich cultural practices in Tamil Nadu using the medium of flat lay styling. A variety of props depict the different practices; all of them styled using authentic objects and methods. It was a small attempt to revisit these age old traditions and present them in an aesthetically pleasing manner, keeping in mind the authenticity and cultural value of both the practice and the meaning represented.
arisi maavu kolam
The first image depicts the art of drawing kolams; these are geometric and organic patterns drawn on the ground at the entrance of households using rice flour mixed with water, on a surface that is applied with rich red soil. It is an everyday practice, done early in the morning - being the start to a new day.
vathal poondu araithal
This shows the grounding of spices using a small 'ural' or grinding stone. Garlic and dried chilli form a part of many essential masala mixtures.
pallanguli
This is a traditional game called 'pallanguli' which is played using seashells as the coins. The shells are arranged accordingly in groups of five and rotated by turn from small pits on the game board. Here is a century old brass pallanguli board with the shells; a treasure from my great grandmother's box.
malli poo
Madurai is famous for its 'malli poo' or jasmine flowers. Here is an elaborate setup that shows the stringing together of flowers to adorn the hair of young girls and women. The adorning of these flowers for their sweet smell, finds reference in many literary texts from the past.
