The students of I BFA and I B.Sc Visual Media from LV Prasad College of Media Studies, Saligramam, began an enriching educational trip to DakshinaChitra, an acclaimed heritage museum in Chennai. Coordinated by Dr. Preetha R, Head of the Department of Filmmaking, along with senior art faculty members Mr. Ranjit A.J and Mr. Ramachandran, the trip provided an immersive experience into South India’s cultural and architectural legacy.
The journey began with a lively bus ride from the college at 9:00 a.m. On arrival, students were grouped and guided through various heritage houses, beginning with the Kerala section featuring a traditional Syrian Christian house and the Mankavu Hindu house. They then explored Tamil Nadu’s Nattukottai Chettiar merchant house and Tirunelveli’s Agraharam.
The Karnataka and Coorg regions were represented through the Kodava and South Indian Muslim homes, followed by visits to Telangana and Andhra Pradesh sections, showcasing Ikkat weavers’ homes and traditional Chuttilu houses. Each structure reflected the lifestyle, ingenuity, and cultural values of its time.
Students also visited DakshinaChitra’s diverse art galleries and exhibits, which included over 4,000 artefacts, handcrafted textiles, and pottery. They had the unique opportunity to watch local artisans in action, crafting jewelry, textiles, and ceramics. The interactive experience allowed many to purchase handmade souvenirs, adding a personal touch to the trip.
A group photo at the amphitheatre concluded the visit, marking a memorable end to the educational outing. The experience deepened students’ understanding of India’s rich heritage, offering not just academic insight, but a heartfelt connection to their cultural roots.
