the light baggage

Overview: Nestled in Bengaluru, Gombeyamane stands as a testament to centuries of sculpting tradition, seamlessly blending time-honored artistry with modern innovation. Founded in 2017 by M Sridhar Murthy, a master sculptor with deep familial roots in the craft, this artistic space has become a hub for sculpting enthusiasts, artisans, and admirers alike. With a lineage that traces back over 200 years, Sridhar’s family has played a significant role in shaping India’s artistic heritage, contributing to the courts of Mysuru, Vijayanagara, and even Tipu Sultan. A Legacy Carved in Stone Sridhar Murthy hails from Shikaripur in Shivamogga district, where his great-grandfather, Thippaji, gained recognition for his artistic talent at a young age. Family tales suggest that Tipu Sultan himself commissioned a portrait from Thippaji, impressed by his ability to capture regal grandeur. Over the generations, this passion for sculpting continued, with Sridhar’s father, Shilpi Kashinath, ear...

Overview: Tucked away in the lush greenery near Denkanikottai, just a short drive from Bangalore, lies a retreat unlike any other—Thathachi Manai. Spread across 6.5 acres of serene farmland, this rustic paradise is not just about nature and relaxation; it’s also home to a fascinating collection of fossils from across the world, carefully preserved by Anand David, a passionate collector and seasoned traveler. A Collector of Time Itself Anand David, the founder-director of the Management Foundation for Organisation Research and Development, has spent over 20 years traveling across 81 countries for his work as a management consultant. But along the way, he developed an unusual passion—collecting fossils. His journey into paleontology began serendipitously in Kathmandu, Nepal, where he stumbled upon a seemingly ordinary stone being sold by a street vendor. Upon cracking it open, he discovered a fossilized marine mollusk, marking the start of a lifelong quest to uncover the secrets of the p...

Bangalore in the early 2000s was a city in transition, straddling its genteel past and the rapid changes brought about by the IT boom. The mornings began with a sense of optimism, accompanied by the freshly launched Radio City 91FM. The chirpy voices of Sunaina Lal and Darius on the “Breakfast Show” set the tone for the day as I boarded the Infosys-Pushpak bus at Banashankari. The journey to Electronics City was a snapshot of a city growing faster than its infrastructure could keep up. The ride was smooth until Silk Board, but beyond Bommanahalli, the traffic snarls caused by the construction of the elevated highway became a daily test of patience. Koramangala, once a quiet suburb, was buzzing with activity. The under-construction Forum Mall stood as a symbol of the city’s evolving lifestyle, drawing curious onlookers. Big Bazaar, a novelty then, became a favorite among old-timers, offering an alternative to the more modest FoodWorld. These changes hinted at the city’s growing cosmopol...

Watch the full video here Overview: Nestled along the scenic Harohalli-Anekal road near Bangalore, Banavasi is a tranquil village enveloped by majestic hills, offering a serene escape from the bustling world. This unassuming village holds within its bounds a rich tapestry of history, spirituality, and natural beauty that beckons visitors to explore its hidden treasures. Exploring Banavasi's Temples and Shrines: At the heart of Banavasi lies the venerable Maramma temple, a cherished spiritual landmark that has stood for over 150 years. Tucked beneath the shade of a sprawling Banyan tree, the temple boasts a stone image in the distinctive folk style. A sense of reverence permeates the air as devotees gather here to pay homage and seek blessings. Adjacent to the Maramma temple, a charming shrine dedicated to Karadi Maramma comes into view. Housing an image of Durga and an intricately engraved wooden idol crowned by the Keertimukha, this shrine exudes a rustic charm that resonates with...