This series named ‘Varnamala’ (alphabets) is inspired by and rooted in the beautiful Devanagri script, and celebrates the ideals of unity, diversity, humanity, and oneness, using letters as a metaphor. I draw parallels between the constitution of letters and human beings, through the lens of diversity, co-existence, and togetherness.

 

In a world of conflicts, intolerance, and inhumanity, we are forgetting the importance of being human and the kindness to each other, including nature and animals. I believe in a verse from Upanishad ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbkam’, which means ‘the world as one family’. This series reflects this quest by drawing parallels between the Devanagari grammar and human society. Despite differences in sound, shape, or weight, these unbiased letters work cohesively, creating a beautiful language and culture. The elements of its alphabet (varnamala) system, like barahkhadi (vowel variants) depict togetherness, conjuncts show symbiosis, absence of case distinctions symbolise equality and inclusivity, no silent letters in the system means voice for all, and many more.

 

To present these concepts, I use inspirations from daily life, memories, family bondings, community interactions showcasing positive and hopeful messages of unity in diversity, sharing & caring attitude, empathy, collaboration celebrating the interconnectedness that shapes the fabric of society.