Ancient Warli Art: A Glimpse into the Rich Cultural Heritage of India

Warli art, originating in Maharashtra, India, is a tribal art form reflective of the Warli people's cultural heritage and life, preserved over centuries. The art, characterized by its simplicity and minimalism, is usually done in white color on a red background, depicting various aspects of Warli culture. It's a medium of communication, conveying messages and stories to the tribe. Recently gaining international recognition, Warli art has been showcased globally, enhancing India's rich cultural preservation, even displayed prominently at the Indira Gandhi International Airport.

Palm Jumeirah (Dubai): Airplane View

The Palm Jumeirah was created in the shape of a palm tree. There is a crescent surrounding the palm which serves as a breakwater structure. Two gaps were made in the crescent to allow for water circulation. The 17 fronds of the palm have rows of luxury villas, and numerous hotels and resorts were built on the crescent. The trunk of the palm has a mixture of retail stores, apartments, and hotels.

Navigating International Travel During the COVID-19 Pandemic: My Journey from Iraq to India

Amid the global crisis, international travel has been severely impacted. However, India has established travel bubbles with several nations, including Iraq, allowing for essential travel. Stringent health measures, such as PCR tests and self-declaration forms, ensure safety. A recent trip from Iraq to India via Dubai showcased efficient handling of health checks, providing hope for future travel.

Cosmos: A Golden Globe at Doha Airport

Cosmos is a stunning artwork by the renowned French artist Jean-Michel Othoniel, located at the Hamad International Airport in Doha, Qatar. The artwork consists of a large metal sphere covered with gold leaf, resembling a giant astrolabe. The sphere is suspended from the ceiling and rotates slowly, creating a dazzling effect of light and movement. Cosmos is inspired by an ancient Islamic astrolabe from the Museum of Islamic Art in Qatar, which is the oldest surviving one in the world. The astrolabe was a device used by astronomers and navigators to measure the position of celestial bodies. Cosmos symbolizes the journey of travelers around the world and their connection to the stars.

Doha Layover: Discovered the Art of the Airport

Doha Airport, one of the Middle East's busiest hubs, offers travelers not only modern amenities but also an impressive collection of contemporary art displayed throughout. Noteworthy pieces include "Small Lie" by American artist KAWS, "Lamp Bear" by Swiss artist Urs Fischer, the copper "Playground" by American sculptor Tom Otterness, and "A Message of Peace to the World" by Iraqi sculptor Ahmad Al Bahrani. The airport's unique walking tour, 'Discover the Art of the Airport,' provides an immersive experience for passersby.

khovar wall painting

A Glimpse into the Rich Cultural Heritage of Khovar Art at Birsa Munda Airport, Ranchi

While traveling from Ranchi to Delhi, the author observed a replica Adivasi hut adorned with Sohrai and Khovar paintings at Birsa Munda airport. Khovar, a historical mural painting tradition originating from the Hazaribagh region of Jharkhand, India, is used to decorate wedding rooms and is considered to bring good fortune. This distinct art form, now recognised by a Geographical Indication tag, reflects matriarchal roots and a deep bond with nature, even adapting to changing times by being created on paper and cloth.

Celebrating Bengal’s Mask-Making Heritage at Kolkata Airport

The departure terminal of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata showcased traditional Bengali masks, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Bengal. Masks in Bengal are integral to folk culture, used in dances, rituals, and festivals. UNESCO recognized their cultural significance, and they are classified into different types based on materials, themes, and styles.

An Unforgettable Encounter: Meeting MS Dhoni

The author met renowned cricketer, Mahender Singh Dhoni, on a flight from Delhi to Ranchi. They shared a bus ride to the boarding gate and had a pleasant conversation. Dhoni not only autographed the author's boarding pass but also took a selfie with him. The author, a longtime fan of Dhoni, experienced great joy and expressed his admiration for Dhoni's character and cricket achievements.