Exhibition Highlights the Struggles Behind Indian Wedding Bands
Lucknow: Amid the glittering lights and vibrant uniforms of wedding musicians lies a story of struggle and lost identity. Young artist Sourav Shree sheds light on these hidden realities through his captivating paintings, showcased in a solo exhibition at the Kokoro Art Gallery, which opened on Wednesday.
Curated by Vandana Sehgal, the principal of AKTU’s college of architecture, the exhibition features 44 acrylic artworks that delve into the world of Indian wedding bands with energetic colors and imaginative designs. The exhibit will be open to the public every day from 11 AM to 6 PM until October 1.
Sourav, originally from Kolkata, recalls the significant role that wedding bands played in celebrations during his childhood. “In every celebration, there was always a band,” he shared. However, he noticed a shift as DJs became more popular, leading to simpler events that often lack any music. This inspired him to paint the bandwalas and their experiences.
One notable piece depicts a wedding band returning from a procession, emphasizing the tough conditions faced by these musicians, despite their colorful outfits. “Many of them come back exhausted after long hours of work, and often, they aren’t even offered a meal,” Sourav pointed out.
Alongside acrylics, Sourav has also tried different mediums like pencils, pastels, and watercolors. One of his paintings showcases a pair of worn golden shoes, contrasting the performers’ dazzling appearance with their difficult realities.
The exhibition was graced by the presence of district magistrate Vishak G. Iyer, who served as the chief guest, further highlighting the importance of this initiative.
