Preserving Heritage in a Modern City: A Glimpse into Block Printing’s Evolution

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Synopsis of the Article 

• Navrachana University hosted a special screening of the documentary The Modern in Print.
• The documentary, directed by Mala Sinha and Suchitra Balaubrahmanyan, explores Mumbai’s rich legacy of block printing and its cultural evolution.
• The screening was followed by a panel discussion featuring prominent figures from the arts, design, and literary communities.
• Esteemed panelists included Mala Sinha, Suchitra Balaubrahmanyan, Dinaz Kalwachawala, Amit Bhavsar, Jerry Pinto, and Francis Corla.
• Tejalben Amin and Prof. Pratyush Shankar of Navrachana University emphasized the importance of cultural discussions for students and the university’s commitment to promoting art and interdisciplinary learning.
• The event highlighted Mumbai’s unique blend of traditional arts and modern influences, inspiring creative exploration.

Navrachana University Brings Block Printing’s Cultural Legacy to Life

Navrachana University recently opened its doors to art enthusiasts, students, and cultural advocates for a captivating screening of The Modern in Print, a documentary film that beautifully showcases the intricate craft of block printing in Mumbai. Created by renowned artists Mala Sinha and Suchitra Balaubrahmanyan, the documentary takes audiences on a journey through Mumbai’s vibrant textile printing history and its enduring impact on the city’s modern identity.

A Film Celebrating Mumbai’s Block Printing Heritage

Block printing has long been celebrated as a unique art form in India. This method, known for its precision and artistry, has deep roots in Mumbai, a city that has served as both a canvas and an incubator for various art forms. The Modern in Print doesn’t merely depict the visual allure of block printing but delves into its cultural, historical, and social significance. The documentary shows how the craft has evolved in sync with Mumbai’s own growth, balancing traditional techniques with contemporary influences.

Highlighting the Transformation of Mumbai through Art

Directed by Mala Sinha and Suchitra Balaubrahmanyan, the documentary captures the journey of block printing artisans and their adaptation to the changing times. Sinha, an acclaimed textile designer and co-founder of Bodhi, has spent years preserving and reviving traditional art forms. Her collaboration with design historian Suchitra Balaubrahmanyan brings a rare perspective on how Mumbai’s dynamic cultural landscape supports and influences art, making it an ideal setting for examining block printing’s evolution.

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Insightful Panel Discussion Featuring Cultural Luminaries

After the screening, Navrachana University hosted a vibrant panel discussion that offered deeper insights into the film’s themes. The panel featured esteemed individuals from Mumbai’s arts, design, and literature communities, including Mala Sinha, Suchitra Balaubrahmanyan, documentary filmmaker Dinaz Kalwachawala, executive producer and music director Amit Bhavsar, poet and novelist Jerry Pinto, and Francis Corla of Corla – Sauza & Company. Each panelist shared unique perspectives on the documentary and discussed Mumbai’s pivotal role in merging traditional crafts like block printing with modern cultural influences.

Panelists expressed their admiration for the artisans’ resilience and innovation. Dinaz Kalwachawala, an expert in documentary filmmaking, shared her thoughts on how storytelling through documentaries brings visibility to local artisans. Jerry Pinto emphasized the importance of these stories in preserving cultural identity amidst rapid modernization. Their insights painted a vivid picture of how Mumbai provides a fertile ground for art forms that both honor tradition and embrace new ideas.

Navrachana University’s Commitment to Art and Culture

Tejalben Amin, a prominent figure at Navrachana University, highlighted the institution’s dedication to promoting art and culture. In her address, she underscored the importance of such screenings in creating spaces for meaningful dialogue among students, professionals, and art enthusiasts. Amin noted that events like these help students appreciate cultural narratives beyond textbooks, inspiring them to explore and engage in creative fields.

Prof. Pratyush Shankar, a key academic voice at the event, added that cultural discussions are essential, especially for students in architecture, design, and journalism. Shankar highlighted how cities like Mumbai possess the social power to inspire creativity, innovation, and a sense of identity among residents. For students, understanding the connection between art and urban spaces helps them see the potential of cities to foster individual expression and communal harmony.

An Inspiring Blend of Tradition and Innovation for Students

Navrachana University has consistently shown its dedication to interdisciplinary learning. Events like the screening of The Modern in Print allow students to engage with culturally rich and thought-provoking material, enhancing their understanding of heritage, design, and the relationship between the two. By organizing such events, the university nurtures students’ curiosity and encourages them to think critically about the role of traditional arts in a modern world.

Students studying art, architecture, and journalism found the event particularly insightful, as it illustrated how cultural narratives can inspire creativity across various fields. By connecting with artisans’ stories, they gain a broader perspective on how cultural heritage can inform innovative approaches in their respective disciplines. This unique experience, backed by Navrachana’s educational mission, empowers students to think beyond conventional boundaries and envision their role in cultural preservation and transformation.

Why Block Printing Remains Relevant in Today’s World

Block printing, once considered an age-old craft, has managed to remain relevant, especially in fashion, design, and urban aesthetics. As cities like Mumbai grow, traditional crafts face challenges, but they also find new life through collaborations with modern art forms. The Modern in Print serves as a reminder that preserving such crafts doesn’t mean resisting change; rather, it’s about honoring tradition while embracing innovation.

By screening this documentary, Navrachana University not only celebrates an art form but also encourages a broader conversation about the value of heritage in a rapidly changing world. The event stands as a testament to the university’s commitment to fostering artistic appreciation, supporting interdisciplinary engagement, and ensuring that the legacy of crafts like block printing continues to inspire future generations.

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