Kathaa Hong Kong: A Celebration of Indian Traditional Art
What is Kathaa?
Kathaa, Hong Kong's cherished annual celebration of Indian traditional art, marks its fifth year as a vibrant bridge between cultures, showcasing the richness and dynamism in Indian folk and traditional artistry. Experience the mastery of two distinct Indian art forms - Kantha and Kalighat, at Kathaa, as MeMeraki and SAA Academy bring an immersive exhibit to Hong Kong, transforming it into a living gallery, made possible with the generous support of Mrs. Shroff and partnership of the Hysan Development Group.
The festival features a wide range of traditional art forms and wall murals. It also includes workshops, demonstrations, and collaborations with other organizations to promote Indian traditional art in Hong Kong and globally. The mission for this Festival is to empower Indian master artists, promote cultural exchange, and foster understanding between different communities and cultures.
Kathaa '25 Collection
Explore our exclusive collection of Kathaa 2025 Artworks. A curated collection featuring some of the finest artworks by MAHAMAYA SIKDAR(Kantha), SONALI CHITRAKAR(Kalighat).
Featured Artist
Mahamaya Sikdar
Kantha Embroidery: Weaving Tradition with Modernity
Kantha, Bengal's soul stitched into cloth, transforms used textiles into vibrant stories. Simple stitches create a puckered texture, a canvas for narratives of life and myth. Reclaimed threads weave tales of creativity and patience, echoing sustainability. Rooted in antiquity, Kantha repurposes and embellishes, weaving ritualistic symbols into the fabric of daily life linking humble origins to mythological depth. From near-loss to revival, it symbolizes cultural resilience. Floral motifs, human and animal figures, in vibrant hues, paint the vibrancy of Bengali life. As a testament to its enduring tradition, Kantha's woven fabrics seamlessly merge art with everyday life. Its legacy proves art's beauty and practicality, a story stitched into Bengal's fabric.
Featured Artist
Sonali Chitrakar
Kalighat Art: Crafting Stories on Walls
Kalighat art, originating from the 19th-century environs of Kolkata's ghats, represents a significant contribution to Indian artistic heritage, effectively synthesizing traditional and contemporary elements. Emerging in proximity to the Kali temple, this art form evolved from the initial depictions of deities to encompass a broader spectrum of societal themes. Characterized by bold outlines and vibrant coloration, Kalighat paintings serve as a visual chronicle of a period marked by social transformation. The 'patuas,' motivated by both artistic expression and economic necessity, facilitated the dissemination of art to a wider audience. Their artistic output reflects the socio-cultural milieu of the era, incorporating both mythological narratives and contemporary social commentary. Today, the tradition of Kalighat painting persists in the rural districts of West Bengal, notably Medinipur and Birbhum, where contemporary artists utilize organic dyes in accordance with historical practice. These artists integrate religious, secular, and contemporary themes within a modern aesthetic framework, ensuring the continued relevance and preservation of Kalighat art as a vital component of India's cultural patrimony.
Jalsa: A Celebration of Color, Culture, and Confluence
This year, as part of the Incredible India Festival, Kathaaaa, collaborating with the Consulate General of India and the LKF Association, features Kerala Mural artist Adarsh's work in Lan Kwai Fong, seamlessly blending Indian heritage with Hong Kong's urban landscape.
Adarsh's captivating Kerala mural in Lan Kwai Fong depicts a vibrant Indian festival procession. A majestic elephant, symbolizing Lord Ganesha, leads the scene, celebrated by musicians and onlookers. The mural's flawlessly rendered figures, rich colors, and delicate strokes, blend Indian festive energy with LKF's urban landscape, showcases the deep-rooted cultural connections between India and Hong Kong. These connections stem from shared colonial history, spiritual beliefs like Buddhism, and a thriving Indian community since 1841.
The Kerala Mural tradition, originating in the 8th century and linked to Ajanta art, uses natural pigments to depict Hindu, Buddhist, and Christian themes. Adarsh, dedicated to preserving this ancient art form, uses traditional techniques, making his mural a testament to the harmonious cultural exchange and vibrant bond between India and Hong Kong.
With a growing Indian community contributing to Hong Kong's dynamism, and Hong Kong providing vital support and platforms for Indian art and culture, the mural serves as a beautiful visual testament to the harmonious cultural exchange and meaningful partnership between the two regions, effortlessly capturing the rich artistic heritage of India and the dynamic contemporary culture of Hong Kong
Featured Artist
Adarsh Appukkuttan
Kerala Mural
Kerala Mural Painting is an ancient art form indigenous to the southern state of Kerala, India, known for its intricate depictions of mythological and religious themes. These murals, often found on the walls of temples, churches, and palaces, are admired for their vibrant colors, rich symbolism, and fine detailing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kathaa?
Kathaa is an annual festival in Hong Kong that celebrates Indian traditional art forms, with a focus on Kantha embroidery and Kalighat painting. It features exhibitions, workshops, and artist demonstrations.
When and where is Kathaa 2025 taking place?
Kathaa 2025 will be held on March 8th and 9th at Hysan Place Urban Sky (9th Floor) in Hong Kong.
Who are the featured artists at Kathaa 2025?
The festival showcases renowned artists Mahamaya Sikdar (Kantha) and Sonali Chitrakar (Kalighat).
What is Kantha embroidery?
Kantha is a traditional embroidery technique from Bengal, India, known for its simple running stitch and intricate designs on repurposed fabrics.
What is Kalighat painting?
Kalighat painting is a style of Indian folk art that originated in the 19th century in Kolkata, characterized by bold lines, vibrant colors, and depictions of Hindu deities and mythological scenes.
Are there workshops and demonstrations at Kathaa?
Yes, Kathaa offers workshops and demonstrations where you can learn about Kantha and Kalighat art from the master artists themselves.