From the Lambanisof Sindhol
From the Lambanis of Sindhol is an ethnographic study that focuses on the practice of Lambani embroidery within the Sindhol Thanda (Thanda meaning: A human settlement).
Inspired by the fluid nature of the Lambani practitioners’ creative process, the research artifact took the form of a zine—a self-published, non-commercial magazine. The zine serves as a medium to authentically capture and represent the essence of Lambani embroidery. It’s unconventional layout and design reflect the unrestricted artistic spirit found within the Lambani community.
Year
2022
Type
Ethnographic study, Zine
Mentor
Prof. Shreyas Srivatsa
The zine covers a little introduction to the Thanda, the historic traces of the embroidery, the materials used in the making, the thought process of the practitioners, a visit to one of the marketplaces where the materials were sold, conversations with the practitioners, the rituals associated with the embroidery and the evolution of the craft within the Thanda.
The title “From the Lambanis of Sindhol” is in context to giving readers an understanding that the zine is like a letter from the people of Sindhol to the general public. The zine aims at looking at the craft practice through the lens of a community by giving its readers a slice of Sindhol’s embroidery practice.
Fig. 1 - Images from the field visit at Sindhol
Fig. 1 - Images from the field visit at Sindhol
As a researcher practitioner, I got to actively immerse myself within the Lambani community, becoming a part of their embroidery practice. This approach allowed me to develop a deep and personal connection with the craft and the people behind it. Exploring the craft as a researcher practitioner allowed me to observe the craft without separating the researcher from the research participants.
Through direct engagement with the Lambani practitioners, I aimed to build trust, rapport, and mutual understanding, ensuring that my research was not only accurate but also respectful of the community's cultural significance. This allowed me as a practitioner researcher to appreciate the process while delving deeper into the context.
