See ‘Bombay’, the city of yore, at its height of beauty through a photographic journey of wistful black and white photos. The exhibition, Bombay Meri Jaan, has been curated by Aradhana Nagpal, a photo researcher who also owns Dhoop boutique. “My job entails sourcing images from archives or going along with a photographer for a photo-shoot as well as getting correct captions for each and every photograph that goes into a book,” says Aradhana. She has been a photo researcher for books like Bombay Gothic, Monumental North and Mumbai Masti, among others. So what made her put together an exhibition? “Considering what the city has gone though with the terror attacks, I wanted to expose people to the beautiful, old-world charm of Mumbai,” she says.
Check out master photographer Lala Deen Dayal (1844-1905) who won the Royal Warrant from none other than Queen Victoria herself for his stunning photography. Dayal’s panoramic views are breathtakingly gorgeous. On display are also detailed images by Abid Mian L Syed who made his foray into international photography in the 1930s. Syed’s images of Mumbai are remarkable for their great depth.
A collection of fine and rare engravings and lithographs of Mumbai from the 16th to the 19th century include a view of the Bombay Harbour and a 360 degree view from Malabar Hill by William Simpson, the famous Scottish painter and war correspondent, who lived during 1823-1899 and who was intrigued with all things Indian. He particularly sketched scenes of Kashmiri maharajahs.
Do indulge in a piece of nostalgia at Out of the Blue, Khar (W), till February 21.
