Mumbai: Rooted in the past

Textile historian and curator Mayank Mansingh Kaul was reading Tony Joseph’s new book Early Indians: The Story Of Our Ancestors And Where We Came From when he received a serendipitous invitation—to speak at a session with Joseph himself in Mumbai. The talk, on 2 March, is being organized by Sarmaya, a “museum without borders".

Joseph will speak about ancient migration patterns, based on his book. Kaul, whose practice revolves around Indian textiles, fashion and design histories, will speak about the aesthetic evolution of handmade textiles in India since the early 20th century, focusing on the post-independence period. “I will discuss the work of artists (such as textile designer Monika Correa), master artisans and designers over the last several decades, to present a perspective on how their work has mirrored the larger sociopolitical and economic developments of the time," he says.

Sarmaya Talks with Mayank Mansingh Kaul and Tony Joseph will be held at Pundole’s, Mumbai, on 2 March, 6-9pm.