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India is one of the richest countries in the iron ore deposits. Perhaps because of this reason she has been famous for producing good quality iron and steel right from the ancient times. Alexander, in 3rd century Before Christ was presented with steel swords. Ktesias highly praised the Indian swords that he was gifted with. In the following centuries in 5th cent. A.D. the marvel of metallurgical skill finds expression in the Delhi Iron Pillar, the seventy ton edifice that has withstood the weather almost without rusting foe over 2000 years. The huge beams at the sun temple of Konark and the Dhar pillar bear testimony to the metallurgical expertise of the ancient Indian craftsmen. Even as late as the British period, the steel sword of Tipu Sultan was considered a marvel that has recently drawn world attention.

Masala culture

Indian cities offer a cornucopia of images: from brilliant billboards along the streets and facades, Bollywood posters in taxis, buses, restaurants and shops, to film, a steadily growing number of magazines, and the new omnipresence of the TV screen.

This iconography of everyday Indian life is the subject of the exhibition Indian Popular Culture. ‘The Conquest of the World as Picture’ at the House of World Cultures from 19 September – 16 November.

Lessons of life

Dancing on the notes of life is a motivational semi-fiction about a character named Seth. It shows how he fights his way through the various hurdles that he comes across in life. He is not a superhuman or a divine creature, but just an ordinary human being like us, who has the courage to bid farewell to his hurtful past and move on.Often while going through the aisles of our lives, we come across various hindrances we stumble upon. Some people remain where they are, brooding over their fall; while some make the brave effort to stand on their feet again and boldly cross the obstacles.

It is the latter who emerge victorious at the end. A smooth sea can never make a skilled mariner. In the hard times, we learn the vital lessons of life.

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