Untangled Threads He Weaves

An embroiderer who grew up poor is a celebrity in demand with collectors and artists

- SOUMITRA DAS

The contradiction is stark. A dark, youngish man is deep in concentration while deftly embroidering a piece of cloth; an activity traditionally considered reserved for women. The man in question is a former Kolkata autorickshaw driver Bapi Das. There is nothing feminine about his powerful frame and massive arms. With four exhibitions to his credit in the past six years, the intricate elegance of his embroidered art pieces shines through. Untrained though he is, the 46-year-old uses the needle and fine varicoloured thread with the finesse of an artist wielding a brush and paint. His works are currently on show at Dtale Archist (II) in Bengaluru, till January 4, 2025.