A city event brings Bengal’s rich cultural heritage to life

As the city counts down to Durga Puja, Kolkata comes alive with new forms of artistic celebration. On Friday, a slice of Bengal’s identity came alive on the weathered steps of an old ancestral home. The fashion show titled Banglar Mukh, now in its seventh edition, transformed Barrister Babur Bari at Kabi Sukanta Sarani into a stage of colour, tradition, and unapologetic self-expression.Celebrating culture and diversityCurated by visual artist Rishabh, the event brought everyday individuals as models who were draped in rich handloom sarees. Their faces painted in striking reds and greens, evoked folk traditions. The theme drew inspiration from Chhau and Theyyam dance forms, known for expressive makeup, theatrical gestures, and deep ties to folklore, while live sitar by Ayon Banerjee added a soulful touch. “We should celebrate fashion in our own way,” said Rishabh.