Urban Akharas: Mapping Arjangarh's Wrestling Heritage Between Military Defense and Ecological Preservation
by Arindam Manna
New Delhi
Project Description
My project documents Arjangarh’s akhara tradition, exploring its role in shaping local identity, youth engagement, and ecology, culminating in a multimedia installation reflecting its layered heritage
Expected Impact
My project will spotlight Arjangarh’s akhara tradition, highlighting its vital role in shaping local identity, youth engagement, and preserving indigenous knowledge. By documenting these wrestling centres and their evolution, the project aims to foster appreciation for India’s intangible heritage and encourage the protection of such cultural spaces. Through a multimedia installation, it will bridge tradition with contemporary urban realities, inspiring communities to value their layered histories and ecological surroundings, and motivating broader recognition of grassroots cultural practices within India’s evolving cultural landscape.
Applicant Background
I bring extensive experience in research-based, site-specific art projects that blend fieldwork, oral histories, and multimedia installations, as showcased on my website (www.arindammanna.com). My practice centres on documenting/recording overlooked cultural traditions, engaging with local communities, and translating these narratives into immersive visual and audio experiences. This background equips me to authentically represent Arjangarh’s akhara tradition and its layered heritage through innovative, participatory art forms.
Resources Needed
- Funding
- Mentorship
- Visibility
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