Come explore an utsav celebrating pastoralism in the Deccan!
31 Jan - 15 Feb, 2025
Bengaluru
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About Us
The Centre for Pastoralism’s much-loved exhibition is coming back to Bengaluru from 31st Jan to 16th Feb!
Living Lightly isn’t just an exhibition, it’s an invitation. It is a chance to step into the lives of India’s pastoral communities, to experience their stories, their art, and their deep connection to the land. It’s a space that brings people together, sparking conversations and reflections that linger long after you leave.
At the Centre for Pastoralism, our mission is to bring visibility to pastoral communities, their knowledge systems, contributions, and challenges. We do this through research, advocacy, and outreach programs that highlight their indispensable role in shaping our landscapes and livelihoods.
Living Lightly is one of our most comprehensive initiatives. It is a platform that brings pastoralism to life in ways that are both accessible and deeply engaging. Through experiential and interactive spaces, we bring you closer to the external and internal landscapes of Indian Pastoralists. These exhibitions not only foster understanding among diverse groups; it is also a way to provoke reflections, steer conversations, and catalyse collective action. We work with the mission to ensure that pastoral communities and their ways of life are not just preserved, but celebrated!
Our Exhibits
The exhibit section is an invitation to dive into the world of Pastoralism through a range of interactive art works, music, films, stories, pastoral voices, poetry, and much more.
Rooh Ji Rehan rambles into the rich world of pastoral music and spirituality; the Genesis stories turns an ear to creation myths; Kudrat Ji Kayali presents the elegant material culture of the pastoral people, Heddan Hoddan celebrates the brilliant breeds maintained by pastoralists while Vathaan showcases grasslands, stories of the sharp eyed pugees, and much more! We promise, knowing about pastoralism has never been such fun!
Special Events Supported by
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Collaborators
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FAQs
The utsav is about pastoralism. Pastoralists are mobile livestock herders who migrate with animals like cattle, camels, sheep and yak across diverse landscapes. Their herds, bred over centuries, are hardy and low-maintenance, vital to India’s genetic diversity. Pastoralists sustain ecosystems and biodiversity and contribute to dairy, wool, and agriculture, fostering cultural and economic networks.
This exhibition focuses on the pastoral practices of Deccan India, and is about their culture, traditions, and wisdom!
The exhibition starts on February 1st, and February 16th is the last day to catch it.
If you’re a researcher or student interested in pastoral issues and wish to attend the invite-only events, please email us at livinglightly@centreforpastoralism.org with a two-line introduction about your background and interests. We’ll review your request and get back to you with further details!
There's no cost to attend the Utsav at the Indira Gandhi Centre for the Arts. The exhibition, pastoral café and bazaar, are free and open to all!
The Artisan Craft Workshops, the Folk Voices Lab, and the Cheese Workshops are the only ticketed events.
The Exhibition, Pastoral Café, and Alemari Bazaar are open to the public from 10:30 AM to 8:00 PM at IGNCA. Films and performances are also open to all on a first-come-first-serve basis, so don’t forget to register online to secure your spot!
The Utsav is being held at:
Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA)
Kengunte Circle, Mallathahalli,
Jnanabharathi Post, BengaluruGoogle Maps: Click here for directions
Transport Options:
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Nearest Metro Station: Jnanabharathi (Distance: 3.6 km, Approx. 8 minutes by auto)
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Nearest Bus Stop: Bengaluru University Quarters, Mariyappana Palya, Gnana Bharathi, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560056
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Nearest Railway Station: Jnana Bharati Halt, Kenchenhalli
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Nearest Airport: Kempegowda International Airport
Landmarks Nearby:
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Bangalore University
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Kengunte Circle
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Mysore Road, Jnana Bharathi
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You can download our one-page schedule here.
Absolutely! A key part of our work is helping children explore and understand different ways of life. We also offer school workshops—feel free to contact bhawna.jaimini@gmail.com for more details.
We offer guided tours with our artists and curators on the 1st, 4th, 9th, and 16th of Feb in the evenings, although this schedule is subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to our website and Instagram.
No, unfortunately, there is no parking at the location
Most of the ground floor and outdoor spaces are accessible by ramps and pathways, although some terrain might be hard to manoeuvre. The exhibition on the first floor has limited access for the differently abled.
We would love to have you on board! Please find the open call for volunteers here
Here’s an ideal day at the Utsav:
Start with a walk through the exhibition, immersing yourself in the art and cultural displays. Then participate in a hands-on workshop to learn something new. Afterwards, enjoy a live performance that captures the festival's essence. Finally, unwind at the Pastoral Café with a warm drink and light bites, reflecting on your experience. This day offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion, creativity, and relaxation.
Each day at the Utsav brings something unique and exciting! We offer a variety of events, performances, workshops, and exhibitions that change daily, so there's always something new to explore and enjoy. Whether you're attending for one day or multiple, you can expect a fresh experience every time you visit!
No, tickets once purchased are non-refundable!
Workshops are only offered at discounted rates for artisan craft workshops specifically tailored for institutions, colleges, and corporate groups. For more information or to inquire about booking, please contact us at livinglightly@centreforpastoralism.org
You can find resources to dive deeper into the topics discussed at the exhibition by following us on our social media platforms for updates and curated content. Additionally, visit our CFP page for detailed information and further reading materials.
