‘Ramayana’ inspires artists at ASEAN-India camp in Shillong | Guwahati News
Shillong: Third edition of the ASEAN-India Artists’ Camp celebrates the timeless legacy of the ‘Ramayana’, with artists drawing inspiration from its spiritual and humanitarian themes to create unique interpretations. Hosted in Shillong, the event serves as a creative platform for participants from India and ASEAN nations to explore and express the epic’s universal values through diverse artistic perspectives. The event has attracted notable attendees, including minister of state for external affairs Pabitra Margherita, the secretary (east) and senior officials from the ministry of external affairs, along with heads of missions from ASEAN countries and guests from ASEAN missions in India. “Shillong, celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, is the ideal setting for this vibrant artistic exchange. With its unique blend of colonial-era architecture and traditional Khasi influences, the town provides artists with a serene yet stimulating environment, enriched by local culture and landscapes. The ASEAN-India Artists’ Camp 2025 exemplifies the convergence of art and culture to inspire creativity and collaboration,” the organiser SEHER stated.The camp also features renowned film personality Deepti Naval, who attended as a guest artist. Three mentors have been appointed to guide participants in exploring spiritual and humanitarian themes inspired by the ‘Ramayana’, focusing on interpretations free from religious influences. A total of 34 artists are participating in the event — 11 from ASEAN nations such as Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, and the Philippines, while the remaining participants include Indian artists. Northeast India is well-represented by Raphael Warjri of Riti Academy in Meghalaya and Chandan Bez Barua, a faculty member at Assam Govt Art College. The theme of the camp centres on the ‘Ramayana’, with each artist presenting their creative interpretations. The ASEAN-India Artists’ Camp 2025, which began on March 29 and will conclude on April 7, showcases the transformative power of art in fostering cultural exchange, understanding, and cross-border collaboration.
