Review: SHAHNAZ HUSAIN ATTENDS ARTIST Jatin Das' Pankha Exhibit

Eminent Indian artist Jatin Das, recently showcased a unique exhibit that featured a proud legacy of 5,000 pankhas or handheld fans.

This extraordinary collection that opens the doors to an inimitable Indian tradition of yesteryears' where it was inevitable for every household to have pankhas for long summer nights is a visual treat.

The carefully curated series features prints, photographs and even documentaries and paintings.

The exhibit has been drawing a steady interest amongst the patrons of Indian art and theatre. The evening also saw Ayurveda exponent Shahnaz Husain, marveling at the wonderful synergy of the exhibit. The exhibit was also opened in presence of noted personalities such as writer Mark Tully, writer Keki N Daruwalla and Amitabh Kant from Niti Aayog.

Talking about the exhibit, Jatin Das spoke abiout how his quest for pankhas led him to various regions around the world ranging from Korea, Japan to Middle East.

Titled, Pankha: A collection of hand fans from the Indian subcontinent and beyond, the exhibit will remain on display till June 24.

In many ways, the exhibit through its documentaries shows to the viewers the fascinating role a now obsolete pankha played in the history of India. Ornate, antique ceiling fans were held by appointed courts men during the Mughal and colonial era. While Odisha's Alekh monks used palm leaved strewn as pankhas to keep away the sun.

Documentaries, guided tours and fan-making workshops will also be a part of the month-long exhibition.

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