Arpita Shah: Modern Muse at the Centre for British Photography (5th October - 17 December 2023) Arpita Shah: Modern Muse at Photo Oxford Festival (28th June - 4th July 2024)
Arpita Shah: Modern Muse at Belfast Exposed in Collaboration with the Centre for British Photography. 7th October 2024 – 21st December 2024
I was born in the UK, my family are from Panjab, Northern India and we are all Sikhs. I like it when people ask and are curious about my Dastar...
I was born in the UK, my family are from Panjab, Northern India and we are all Sikhs. I like it when people ask and are curious about my Dastar (turban), rather than keeping that curiosity within and not exploring it. I enjoy talking about my identity, so am open to people asking me about it. Personally, the Sikh Dastar shows that you’re loyal to Guru Nanak Dev Ji. I am covering my Kes (hair) because it is one of the five gifts in Sikhi. Covering, growing and never cutting your hair ensures you retain the flow of energy in your body. It is really important when you meditate to keep it intact and coiled on the top of your head. Covering your kes is also respectful, hygienic and practical for meditation and focus.I am proud to be Panjabi and from the land of the Gurus that laid the foundation of Sikhi. I identify as being from the UK but my home is also Panjab.