The word mandala or ‘circle’ in Sanskrit, signifies the universe in all its oneness and innate completion. It has long since been accepted that the creation of Mandalas is a highly therapeutic form of art, believed as they are to hold a number of meditative and healing properties. And teaming this ancient practice along with a steaming cuppa or some flavourful chai seems the ultimate recipe to wind down in today’s high-octane pace of life. This is precisely what the workshop, Mandala over a Cuppa, hopes to achieve.
Hosted by artist Harshita Dakoju, art aficionados and souls exhausted by a week of work come to relieve themselves by by trying their hand at this ancient circular art style. “People come here to de-stress after a long week’s work. There is something magical and soothing in the act of repetition. Mandalas are created through use of repetitive strokes, and that is where the painter or artist finds a form of serenity,” says Harshita Das, the founder of The Bubble Room where the workshop is to be held.
“Stress, be it work or home has become an unfortunate norm, and even among children these days. Participants at my workshops have been children, homemakers, corporate professionals, consultants, students and so on. The ease of the art and the fact that it needs basic material is something that put them at comfort quite instantly.” explains Harshita Dakoju in terms of the main reason why people from all walks of life participate in the art of Mandala.
She recalls the experiences of a close friend, who used to doodle and draw all the way since childhood, and how when she was introduced to Mandalas, she discovered a way to focus and streamline her scattered thoughts all through the perfection and repetition required to create Mandala artwork.
When asked about the effects of Mandala art in day-to-day life, Harshita explains that, the tools necessary to create them are very basic and can be found anywhere, “The art can be practiced by tweens, teens and adults alike and does not need any prior experience. Drawing mandalas over tea in calm surroundings or even over a sangria and some jazz has a coupling effect and can be attained either in solitude or with a group,” she says. She also explains that under her banner Iti by Harshi, she intends to host many more events and spread the therapeutic art form of Mandala.
As for the workshop itself, held in the Bubble Room in Jayanagar 5th block, participants are provided all the materials required for the creation of your own Mandala.
As for the workshop itself, held in the Bubble Room in Jayanagar 5th block, participants are provided all the materials required for the creation of your own Mandala, and by the end of the session you can event take them home! As the event title suggests, one can experience a hot refreshing cuppa as well as an incense filled ambience to calm the soul.
What: Mandala Over a Cuppa
When: November 4, 11 am – 1 pm
Where: The Bubble Room 215, 9 Main Jayanagar 5 Block Bangalore
Price: Rs 900
