During my recent visit to Vijayawada, I had a chance to visit Kondapalli town which is synonymous with the manufacture of wooden toys. But beyond toys, the town also houses an ancient medieval fort. Located about 25 km from Vijayawada to the west of the city, the fort is located atop of a hill. The… Continue reading Vijayawada diaries: Kondapalli Fort – a treasure house of medieval history
The bustling city of Vijayawada offers several interesting sights spanning nature, history, religion and culture. Arguably one of the best attractions of this city are the Undavalli caves located 6 km from the city centre. It is also an important Buddhist site just like the others sites in the state. The caves are one of the… Continue reading Photoessay: Undavalli caves, Vijayawada: splendid rock cut architecture
An integral part of our culture, India is home to a number of indigenous crafts that are the lifeline of several communities. Influenced by several factors like availability of raw materials, influence of ancient dynasties and local traditions, handicrafts of India are as diverse as distinct. One such distinctive craft are the colourful wooden toys… Continue reading Wooden toys of Kondapalli: of colour, charm and creativity
Large expanses of freshly dyed fabric spread out on the roads greeted me as I entered the dusty by lanes of the seemingly sleepy town of Pedana. While I wanted to ask for directions to the weaving colony, the meters of cloth left to dry almost on every road, nook and corner of town made… Continue reading Bold, bright and beautiful: the indigeneity of Pedana Kalamkari fabrics
