Bollywood Art Project

The  other day, I was doing some research for one of the stories in my TV show "Arjun" and was discussing some art related stuff with my friend Hitesh Kewalya. Considering that the subject was art and he is from NID, he did most of the talking while I just sat there with my "Yeah, I completely get it!" look. That was the first time I heard the mention of Bollywood Art Project. According to the BAP (as it's fondly called) Facebook group page:

"Bollywood Art Project is an urban public art project that aims to transform the walls of Mumbai into a celebration of its cinema. As a build up to the 100 years celebration of Indian cinema, in 2013, we aim to commemorate Bollywood through various art works & campaigns. BAP is the brainchild of artist Ranjit Dahiya and co-founder Tony Peter. It is an attempt at mapping the cinematic history of India over the last century. The medium is street art and graffiti set in the tone of the' hand-painted poster, intended to open out to various other art forms also. "

Needless to say, I was quite  fascinated by the work that they are doing and as luck would have it,  yesterday, I found myself shooting in Bandra very close to where  this small cottage is.I would have completely missed it as it is tucked away in one of the by-lanes but thanks to one particular unit member who saw it and brought it to my attention, I took a small walk and shot these pictures. It is quite sight to see and if you are in Mumbai, please go and do take a look.

The Bollywood Art Project's Facebook Page is here and the group is here.

As usual, you can see the large images on my G+ page.

Dussehra

Today is "Dussehra" in India. On this day, according to Hindu mythology Lord Rama killed the great demon Ravana who had abducted Rama's wife Sita to his kingdom of Lanka. Rama, his brother Lakshmana, their follower Hanuman and an army of monkeys fought a great battle to rescue Sita. The entire narrative is recorded in the epic Ramayana, a Hindu scripture.All over the country, this day is celebrated as a victory of good over evil and people re-enact the entire story, the climax of which culminates in giant  effigies of Ravana, filled with fireworks being burnt.

Ramleela - The re-enactment of the story of Ramayana on Dussehra. Since this tradition has existed from ancient times where it was taboo for a woman to go on stage, the role of Sita, the wife of Lord Rama, was performed by a man - a tradition that continues to this day.

As usual, you can check out the extra large versions on my G+ page.