SelfSocially by Ruchika Verma Goes Offline, and We Loved It!
Regular readers of this newsletter may be aware of our monthly column on digital marketing, SelfSocially, by Council Member Ruchika Verma, a seasoned digital marketing expert and Instagram coach. Recently SelfSocially had its first-ever offline workshop at the quaint Mulberry Times Cafe in Sector 59, Gurugram. The workshop, entitled ‘Unlocking the Algorithm’, turned out to be an engaging and insightful session on Instagram profile page optimization. The insights gained were not just informative but also easy to implement. Even for those of us who were well-versed in Instagram, the workshop revealed nuanced aspects that are often overlooked.
This collaborative initiative between Ruchika Verma and the Haryana Arts Council proved to be a must-attend. The attendees, which included Council Members Priya Renganathan, Neetu Ralhan and Vandana Bhasin, along with Council President Komal Gupta, found great value in this informative workshop. We highly recommend it for both budding and established entrepreneurs alike.
Project Collaboration with Kaahaanighar
Kaahaani Ghar: Expanding India's Fabric through Folklore
Dear Reader, As you will agree, despite the dizzying pace of modernization India has seen in the last few decades, at its heart it continues to remain that land where all traditions, customs and grandeurs begin with a story. A story that is always deep-rooted. And thus,
In a world increasingly defined by digital landscapes, where the power of linguistics weaves the fabric of cultural identity, Kaahaani Ghar and the Haryana Arts Leadership Council join hands in a pioneering effort to make folklore not just relevant but accessible to all. At the heart of our collaboration lies the belief in the transformative power of stories and the urgent need to ensure their passage from one generation to the next. In an age where the digital realm shapes the narrative of our global society, folklore often remains an untapped treasure. Kaahaani Ghar envisions breaking this barrier, aiming to bring the richness of folklore to the fingertips of a diverse audience, particularly the younger generation. We recognize that the accessibility and democratization of folklore in the digital space are crucial for its preservation and evolution.
Join us on this digital journey as we embark on a mission to democratize folklore, celebrating the enduring power of linguistics and storytelling. Together, we aim to create a dynamic platform that not only preserves Haryana’s rich folklore but also showcases it to a global audience. By fusing traditional narratives with modern technology, our collaboration seeks to breathe new life into age-old tales, ensuring they resonate with contemporary sensibilities.
Together with the Haryana Council, Kaahaani Ghar invites you to be a part of this transformative endeavour, where the past meets the future, and stories become timeless.
Haryana Heritage Knowledge Repository
Exploring Haryana’s Cultural Landscape: A Repository of Knowledge and Research
A Chat with Colonel Yogender Singh
At the heart of this newsletter lies a commitment to serve as a comprehensive repository of knowledge and research on the arts and culture of Haryana. We delve into the intricate details of the state’s artistic heritage, from traditional crafts and performing arts to the contemporary expressions that shape the cultural narrative of Haryana today. Our articles, features, and interviews showcase the brilliance of local artists, the evolution of art forms, and the indelible mark Haryana has left on the canvas of Indian culture. We aim to be a valuable resource for scholars, enthusiasts, and anyone eager to uncover the nuances of Haryana’s artistic legacy.
Dive into the vibrant world of Haryana's literature and culture with an exclusive, in-depth interview featuring Colonel Yogender Singh, the Founder of the Haryana Literary Festival and a distinguished military historian.
Join us as Shefali Chopra, Council Vice President, engages in a captivating conversation with Colonel Yogender Singh. Explore the roots of Haryana’s rich literary legacy and the cultural tapestry that defines this incredible state.
This interview marks the exciting beginning of a series dedicated to unravelling the profound cultural heritage of Haryana, with more fascinating insights to come in the months ahead. Stay tuned for a journey of discovery and celebration!
1 November 2023 was Haryana Day. Here is the Haryana Council post commemorating this important day of its statehood.
Council Member Rajni Sardana penned a beautiful poem on Haryana Day. Read on and feel the joy and exuberance of the Haryanvi spirit.
A highlight post on the Architecture of Haryana, it’s current state and what can be done by @Sikkawala on Instagram.
The whole stretch from Gurgaon to Mewat is dotted with monuments built by the Khanzadas of Mewat, who were the local Rajput rulers that converted to Islam in the 14th century… Click the above post to read more.
Council Members Spotlight
Here is a sneak peek into what our council members are doing in pursuit of their passion for the arts and crafts, adding vibrant hues to the cultural landscape of Haryana.
Council Member Sriparna Das Chakraborty shares her childhood dream and how it all came true. Read on!
Dreams Turned Tradition: My Journey with SLDPC and Durga Pujo Pandal Decor
Durga Puja is the biggest festival of the year for Bengalis. It’s an event of worshiping Maa Durga, as well as a festival of creativity, inclusivity, togetherness, spreading love, laughter, fun, food, and more. Ever since my childhood, I have nurtured a dream of adorning Durga Pujo pandals. As a proud member of the Sushant Lok Durga Puja Committee (SLDPC) in Gurugram, this dream is now a fulfilling tradition each year. This year again I had the privilege to be part of the Pandal Decoration team’s efforts, and it was an incredible journey from concept to creation. Sketching the blueprint in miniature with all measurements was my favourite part of the process.
The entire Puja Prangan was thoughtfully divided into three key zones: the main Puja area, a dedicated performance space, and a captivating photo booth. Beyond these focal points, every inch of the space was meticulously adorned to create a harmonious and opulent ambiance in line with the decor theme.
Our theme this year was a tribute to rural Bengal’s Thakur Bari, with the base made of chik (bamboo stick sheet) coloured with terracota paint. Horses played a dominant role, symbolizing Maa Durga’s journey from Kailash to Prithivi on her trusted Ghotok (horse). To enhance the aesthetics, we added macrame patches of different geometric shapes. This project was the result of three months of hard work and dedication by an amazing team. I’m grateful to the SLDPC team for entrusting me with this responsibility and for their unwavering support throughout.
🙏 May Maa Durga’s blessings be with us all throughout the year.
Priya Renganathan
Parachitram: Kerala Mural
The Priyaa Institute of Traditional Arts held a Painting Exhibition at the Art Cradle in Sector 50, Gurugram, from 4 to 6 November, 2023. The exhibition displayed several artworks in traditional painting style, created by the students of the institute. Council Member Priya Renganathan, the founder of the institute, is making great strides in spreading these art forms.
As we go, here is our monthly reminder: You matter, today, tomorrow and always!
Connect with Us:
For questions, feedback, article ideas, and story contributions, write to us at haryana.arts.council@gmail.com.
View past newsletters here:
Last Month
October Newsletter: Insights, Knowledge, Opinions and Beyond
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Dear readers, As the leaves begin to turn vibrant shades of crimson and gold, we are reminded that change is a beautiful and inevitable part of life. This October, the WICCI Haryana Arts Council is thrilled to welcome you to a month filled with warmth, growth, and inspiration.
We can be found here too:
Instagram: wicci_arts
Facebook: WICCI Arts Leadership Council
LinkedIn: WICCI Arts Leadership Council
That’s all for this edition. Ciao from the Newsletter Team. See you next month!
Komal Gupta, Content Curator
Rajni Sardana, Hindi Content Curator
Neetu Ralhan, Editor
Sonika Tyagi, Video Editor
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