Those who have romantic and sexual desire for others irrespective of their genders Those who are attracted to men and masculinity Those who are attracted to woman and femininity Also spelt as skolisexual. Attraction to genderqueer, transgender and non-

It is how one labels oneself; how one thinks of oneself in terms of to whom one is romantically, emotionally and/or sexually attracted. The most common sexual identities are homosexual, or bisexual or straight It is different from sexual identity. Identity is the core of one’s being. It is unchangeable, like gay or straight. Preferences can change - one can sexually prefer tall or short people (which can be changeable) that I studied. For example, they all have a water prayer or ritual,” Butail says. Moreover, most traditions use copper vessels to store water, adds Reha Sodhi, curator of the exhibition. “To mirror this, a copper water pipe runs through the show.”

Where the traditions differ most is in sound and rhythm of the hymns. These are key elements and ‘algorithms’ from that Butail incorporates in her art through the use of audio clips, geometric sculptures and interactive installations.

Videos play above a pitched white tent, offering glimpses of Butail’s journey and the performances of various practitioners that she interacted with. What the viewer experiences is an immersive journey through time and space.

“I am a very big fan of Astha’s and have seen the development of her practice of the last couple of years,” says Jagdip Jagpal, director of the India Art Fair. “I thoroughly enjoyed this show and felt it displayed her talent and unique approach.”

At a time when information is most commonly accessed at a click, ‘In The Absence Of Writing’ reconnects the viewer with a more tangible, visceral alternative.

“Even in the contemporary world, it is possible to incorporate the practice of oral history traditions in modern education systems,” says Reha.

As an installation of a Rig Veda phrase puts it, “There is room for everyone.”