ABOUT THE PROGRAMME
The Cultural Studies with Purpose Study Abroad program to Jaipur, India is a yearly program in summer as a collaboration between the Indian Institute of Crafts & Design and the Michigan State University. Student participants from each institution work together in small groups to explore complex social issues related to Indian Design (broadly defined) through field research/documentary filmmaking in and around the vibrant craft hub of Jaipur, Rajasthan, India. This is a Documentary Filmmaking program which offers a unique opportunity for IICD and MSU students to engage in experiential and community-engaged learning while exploring complex topics and issues within diverse communities and regions around the world. This program is aimed at allowing students to learn and grow through travel and experience in ways that have the potential to profoundly expand a student’s worldview.
This year’s program had instructional team members and mentors from both IICD and MSU. Dr Eddie Boucher of MSU was the general program facilitator and instructor of record for MSU along with program faculty Stefan Lindahl and Amina Darabie, and they worked in close collaboration and partnership with Dr Toolika Gupta, Director, IICD and their instructional team for the program which included Mrs. Dhruvswamini Bais, Mr. Pronoy Kapoor and Mr Abhishek Yadav.
The program commenced with online introductory sessions on the 8th of May and concluded on the 3rd of July with a feedback session. The highlight of the program was the film screening of four documentary movies made by the students on the 2nd of July at the Rajasthan International Centre.
Documentary Movies of 2025
An Indian Touch: The Desi-fication of Momos
This film explores the nation's love for street food. The film revolves around the beloved street food dish, momos. Similar to samosas and jalebis, Momos have become an integral part of our culinary landscape, with many claiming them as their own. This film unravels the layers of history, cultural significance, and the emotional bonding that momos evoke.
The Nature of Things: Crafting Handmade Paper
Paper making in India has a rich history, dating back as early as the 7th Century. Handmade paper became essential to artistic traditions like miniature paintings and calligraphy. Rooted in recycled and natural materials, Indian handmade paper making reflects the deep connection between craft, sustainability, and the environment.
Achaar-Vichaar
Achaar Vichaar explores the craft of pickle making and food preservation as cultural preservation. Three keen students from different backgrounds interview artisanal and home pickle makers, and they experience the process of Indian pickle making through their own hands. As they undergo the filming and interviewing processes, they uncover new findings about the significance of Indian pickles, also known as achaar. These findings involve generational knowledge, connections to roots, and open secrecy.
ROAR: The Indigenization of the Royal Enfield as a Symbol of Post-Colonial Identity
The Royal Enfield motorcycle has become a complex and multilayered symbol in modern India. Since its beginnings as the product of munitions and arms manufacture during British Imperial rule, to an Indian owned icon, it has gone through multiple transformations and become an emblem of aspiration, status and social mobility, predominantly among Indian men. In this film the makers intend to unpick the entangled layers of social history, the interwoven narratives of independence and post-colonialism including, notions of masculinity, economic aspiration and the personal narratives of Royal Enfield owners, those who work with them and those who aspire to own one.
Kahani Dhaagon Ki
Kahani Dhaagon Ki explores the way Kathputli has shifted in the storytelling. The documentary shows how Kathputli, which was once performed for communities, reflects bigger social and economic changes. There has been a shift in the performances including social messages which are shaped by tourist demand. The Kathputli making Artisans are trying to adapt their craft, including changes in doll-making methods using accessible materials. Presently Kathputli relies heavily on tourism as there is economic uncertainty within the community and this is reflected in the interviews in the film. This transformation reflects a deeper struggle, to keep the essence of the traditional craft and meeting modern livelihood needs. It also shows the strength of the artisans as they work hard to keep their stories alive, even as their world keeps changing.
Documentary Movies of 2024
Printed in Tradition: Tourism’s Double-Edged Sword
The documentary highlights the rich history and artistry of traditional block printing in Jaipur, India while recognizing the potential positive and negative implications that tourism may have on the craft.
Amber &Abhushan
Jaipur, capital of Rajasthan, where the city’s gems and jewelry stands out. Today, the skilled artisan in Jaipur keeps the legacy alive by using traditional techniques that’s passed down through generations.
Dhaage: Threads of Culture in Block Printing
The documentary provides a comprehensive look at block printing, highlighting its historical roots, environmental concerns, and the effects of global trends.
Jaipur Market Heartbeat
The documentary is not only a showcase of the vibrant market life but also provides a deeper understanding of the socio-cultural dynamics that define Jaipur's bustling marketplaces.