My City
Of art and green pastures, by Madhavi Rongala-Pavuluri
Bangalore is a fantastic destination for art, culture and handicraft enthusiasts. I love experimenting and viewing different artistic forms, templates and colours, especially the traditional Indian ones that are seeing a revival not just in Bangalore but throughout the country. This is one of the main reasons I decided to move back to the city from the US with the dream to start my own boutique; there are many unique artistic opportunities available to explore here. What strikes my interest in particular are those products that use old mediums to express new messages. For example a fan that has been painted with bright colours, old soda bottles given a makeover with mosaic tiles or a tea tray woven with a Chettinand weave. Sourcing such products is the best part of both my job. From fabrics to pottery, painting, dresses, stoles, baskets, jutis, chains and jewellery, there is just so much variety to choose from.
When I first started out, I was keen to look out for original products with a social touch. So I got in touch with a lot of NGOs that empower underprivileged sections of the society with an artistic license. There are a lot of great organisations making an impact both in and around Bangalore and I am glad to be able to give them my support.
Another plus point of living and working in Bangalore is the availability of different green child- friendly spaces. As a mother of two, it was important for me to not only have a job which allowed me to spend more time with my children, but which was also in a city where they don’t have to stay cooped up indoors all day. It was only in Bangalore that I found both. When my children are not helping me with my store with things like putting product labels and setting up art displays, I often take them out for outings or picnics to the city’s many parks and lakes.
On the whole I think Bangalore is a really positive city to be a part of. From the food to the weather, from the landscape to the people, there is little to complain about. Those looking for a mellow pace of life and lots of happy vibes will especially feel at home here. The author is the owner of Yellow Button Store.