India is one of the most diverse countries in the world. I wanted to depict the 'Indian patchwork' of core values, beliefs and strengths for this concept. We represent our freedom & independence by depicting - democracy (the Parliament House), growth in science (the ISRO Mars mission), growing infrastructure (our Metro, railways, local transportation like the iconic auto rickshaw), striving for education (even at grass-root levels - the hand writing with the chalk) compassion (the hands), strength and courage (the tiger), and progress (here I want to show the section 377 i.e de-criminalising homosexuality as a marker of progress). These are just some of the many steps towards growth and progress. Interspersed with these symbols and icons of progress are traditional Indian motifs from textiles creating a unique ‘patchwork’. This complex yet harmonious patchwork is thereby representative of India’s freedom and independence and celebrates the essence of what I believe is quintessentially Indian - the surprising and wonderful co-existence of several opposing forces, ideologies, religions and cultures.
