हमारे स्वाद की असलियत, insatiable desires of a bourgeoisie
2021
Natural dyes and cotton
This work plays between the colonial commodity and reclaimed object in both the flat-woven dhurrie rug and pre-packaged spice mix – principal pre-industrial commodities. Playing with perception, these works are hand-woven dhurries that appear abstracted, yet are pixelated images of spice boxes – particularly curry powder, chaat masala, and butter chicken masala. These spices are chosen because of their individual complex colonial histories. British aristocrats concocted dishes approximated from Indian cuisine and commodified curry powder, for example, as a symbol of Indian authenticity and bourgeoisie connoisseurship. The boxed spice mix, however, would outlive the British Raj and become a household item in kitchens throughout India and its diasporas.
Special thanks to Kamlesh Mali (head weaver), Aarif Rangrez (dye specialist), Rekha Devi and Kavita Sharma (rug checking and finishing).