This short film was an assignment given to us in the 'Indian Context of Communication Design' class. The brief was to choose an Indian object, tradition or ritual. The aim was to connect the personal to the larger Indian context. I choose the 'Bindi' because this humble speck of colour is more than its size, representation and various meanings and emotions attached to it. I wanted to show its deep rooted history and all forms of contexts people associate it with.
But should the Bindi only be worn by a specific person -- a woman by gender, Hindu by religion, and Indian by nationality? Culture appropriation or appreciation, Bindi is not just a mark on the forehead; it's a bold declaration of defiance and pride.
The bindi isn't just worn; it's lived.
