Auroville Woman Decodes the Meaning Behind Indian Myths Through Art

By Lekshmi Priya S

May 22, 2017

This Auroville Woman Beautifully Decodes the Meaning Behind Indian Myths Through Art

Artist and graphic designer Aparajita Barai takes inspiration from mythology and folk art for Beloved India, a project she began as a student in 2011.

India is an amalgamation of diverse beliefs, rituals and practices. While many of us unquestioningly follow our traditions, just as our parents and grandparents did, do we really know the significance or the underlying meaning behind the time-honoured practices?

Aparajita Barai, an artist and a graphic designer who graduated from National Institute of Design, has been on a journey to understand Indian myths and spiritualism and launch new discourses on their meaning through contemporary art.

Similar Story

These Stunning Photos Document the World's Most Unique Tribes, From Ladakh to the Amazon

In his pics, photographer Trupal Pandya has captured the most unique tribes of the world, including the Brokpas of Ladakh, also known as the last of the Aryans.

An Auroville resident, Aparajita’s work is influenced by folk style, revealing the intricacy of traditional art interspersed with mythology and spirituality.

Aparajita Barai with one of her artworks, Kali.

Beloved India was her brainchild, borne out of the urge to dig out these ancient treasures, meanings and possibilities that have been submerged under ceremonial practices. Aparajita first conceptualised in 2011, when she was doing her masters in communication design at the University of Westminister, London.

“I realised that India is strongly driven by its spiritual essence and throughout history, it has stood out for that quest. Yet it is sad to witness how the same essence that is supposed to take us beyond boundaries is pulling us down due to lack of understanding. We still keep following the rituals, without imbibing the purpose,” she says.

Incorporating a number of deities into her designs, Aparajita portrays who is not commonly recognised as “design”. With an aim to present these in a modern context, her artworks are examples of a rich representation of visual language incorporating the use of colours, symbols and metaphors.

“While I create the image of Durga, I am worshipping inner strength. I meditate and look within myself in search of that quality and its embodiment. As the clarity slowly flows in, it starts to take form and is personified into creation,” she says.

Here are some of the works by this young artist who seeks answers as she finds her way into ancient ideas through art.

Buddha

Lakshmi. The owl is the goddess’ vahana representing the quality to see through darkness. Lakshmi comes to those who can see even through times when there is no hope.

Truth and alignment

Similar Story

Dhanush Biopic on Isaignani Ilaiyaraaja: The Real Story of India's 'Musical Sage'

Dhanush is all set to play Ilaiyaraaja in his biopic which is slated to release in 2025. Here's the inspiring story of the legendary composer.

NEW: Click here to get positive news on WhatsApp!

Similar Story

Nagaland's Biggest Rapper Moko Koza Chose Hip Hop Over MBBS To Speak for His People

Moko Koza, Nagaland's leading Hip Hop artist shares why he sings about the trials and tribulations of the indigenous Naga people, their history and their stories.