Jugalbandi / जुगलबंदी
A Dialogue between peacocks and rain-bearing clouds.
A stop-motion project.
While the final product may not be my favourite, the sheer hard work and strength of will
that went into its making, make it beautiful.
Conjured in 2021, during the 'Time and Image' module at NID, amidst a lockdown. The backdrop for this project was a house under construction, a setting devoid of fans or air conditioning during the unbearable Rajasthan summer. To add to that, this was captured with a phone that frequently succumbed to the oppressive heat.
This project is one of the few silver linings in the otherwise chaotic year of 2021. It wasn't just the technical difficulties that posed a challenge; it was also a period when my family was grappling with hard times. Dedicating time to this stop- made little sense, but we persisted. While those hardships have since faded into memory, the outcome remains.
When I think back to those intense days, bent over the set, I do recall the stress.
However, when I revisit the finished piece and hit play, I smile.
Learnings
Employed slow-motion filming techniques to captured the
mesmerizing dance of rain clouds and peacocks in the Thar Desert of Rajasthan.
Narrative and Soundscape Creation:
Crafted an engaging story by synchronizing the sounds of peacocks with the approaching
rain clouds, fostering a sense of communication between these natural elements in the video.
Enhanced the viewer's experience by incorporating classical Raag music,
adding depth and emotional resonance to the visual storytelling, imparting a deeper understanding
of the desert's natural harmony, evoking emotions and a sense of wonder.
Creative Direction and Artistic Expression:
Conceived the idea behind the video and brought it to life: a project that showcases
the beauty and harmony of nature's dance in the desert landscape,
showcasing the delicate interplay between it’s elements.
Behind the scenes
The creative process, where ideas took shape, from concept to creation
in these behind-the-scenes moments.
Honourable Mentions
Assignments from the same module that were part of the learning process.
20 Frames
Exploring green screen
Telling a story in 20 frames.
Karma: You reap what you sow.