A BOOK TO LIBERATION

This performative manual guides viewers through Hindu funeral rituals, aiming to aid the soul's ultimate liberation, or मोक्ष. I delved into extensive research into Hindu funeral practices and the science and logic behind each step. Collaboratively we shaped this research into a fabric book mimicking a ritualistic performance. Viewers engaged with the book through instructions and chants, after which witnessing its symbolic burning, allowing them to both learn and experience liberation firsthand. This project transcended a book into a tool to make viewers feel, engage and activate their senses.

Design: Art direction, Book design, Fabric printing, Anthotype printing, Performance design

Softwares: Adobe Indesign, Photoshop

Credits: In collaboration with Michelle Song

Advisor: Pouya Ahmadi

IDEATION

PROCESS

EXECUTION

We compiled the scans, instructions, information, and various fabric printing techniques into a circular book, prompting viewers to stand in a funeral circle to engage with it. Each page offered a performative way to unravel and engage with it, ensuring each viewer had a unique experience.

Heat sensitive fabric reacted to human touch for the ritual on "lighting a lamp" and instructions for them to "Blow out the wick"

We curated a well-paced reading experience for the book, allowing each person to absorb the information step by step. Instructions like "Tie the thread against a body part and pull" encouraged viewers to immerse themselves in the present and emphasize the significance of these rituals.

Back of the book had Hindi chants said during funeral ceremonies and words that spelt out "It is now time to rekindle with what was once yours"

All participants wrote a person, place or thing they lost in their life and truly miss in the space next to "Dear ____"

Each page required the stitch to be cut opened to add to the performative and ritualistic aspect of the book

Created copies of the book to tailor to diverse audiences: how it could resonate with Hindu students who may have experienced these rituals

The audience inaugurated the funeral ceremony by burning the book containing the names of their loved ones, silently witnessing it turn to ashes, emphasizing the Hindu belief of Moksha, or liberation of the soul.

Scans of the burnt version of the book and it's ashes

Change the text and add your own content, including any information that is relevant to share. Then customize the font, size and scale to make it your own.

Include as much or as little text as you want. Tabs grow and shrink vertically to fit your text. Each tab can have a different height and look.