In Between the living and leaving

My artistic inquiry, tentatively titled "In Between Leaving and Living," delves into the complex and multifaceted concept of home and belongingness as experienced by migrant workers from Bihar, India. This project is deeply personal, as my own life trajectory has been inextricably intertwined with the migratory experiences of my family and community. Growing up in Bihar, I witnessed firsthand the economic imperatives that compelled countless individuals to leave their homes in search of better opportunities. My subsequent migration for education and career further solidified my understanding of the challenges and aspirations of those who traverse these geographical and emotional landscapes. This connection and passion became more stringer during the COVID-19 pandemic, where several workers were forced to migrate back to their roots, with heavy repercussion.

I envision a multidisciplinary project that combines performance, visual art, data visualization and sound to create a powerful and immersive experience. The collected narratives and objects will serve as the raw material for developing a script that weaves together personal stories and broader social commentary.

There will be 2 parts to a single performance - One being a physical performance of me creating movements showing the patterns and effect of migration, and second being the project of my movement in the form of visual art being generated on a plain wall for people to witness it. Later the same visual can be played during the entire exhibition. The soundscape will be integral to the project, incorporating traditional Bhojpuri folk songs to evoke a sense of longing and nostalgia.