I went there with my friend, her mother, and her aunt. The entire day felt very peaceful. We spent hours wandering through the lanes, stopping at intervals to admire the Alpana art on the walls of each house. Each design was different from the other, and the village came alive like a giant canvas of art. The contrasting white outlines and soft colors against the warm clay walls was not just pleasant but seemed to have an almost therapeutic effect.
As it happened, it was Pithe-Puli day. The villagers were preparing traditional sweets at home and selling them right outside their doors. We just had to taste them and, as expected, they were utterly divine. There is a distinct joy in eating freshly prepared, warm Pithe in the middle of a village steeped in art and laughter. It felt simple, comfortable, and yet an indelible part of my day.
It wasn’t just the paintings, but the overall atmosphere too, that made the day a special one. Everywhere, little children were running, playing, and tiny baby goats were hopping around. They were so cute that for a second, I actually wondered if I could just smuggle one home!
Being there made me realize that creativity is everywhere. Sometimes it lives quietly in ordinary things. In a painted wall, in homemade food, in old traditions people continue with love and pride, and in the warmth of a community that welcomes you without even trying.
While putting together this issue, I kept thinking about that feeling. In many ways, a magazine is much like an alpana. Different colors, ideas, stories and voices combine to form one bigger picture. Each poem, story and work of art in these pages brings its own small pattern to the design.
So, while you read this issue, I hope you enjoy it the same way we explored Alpana Gram, slowly, happily and with curiosity in your heart.
Happy reading!
S n a p s h o t s f r o m A L P A N A G R A M -
