"Collecting is a true mania (that is) instantly understood by every other collector and almost incomprehensible to the uncontaminated." - Louis Auchincloss
Allow me to extend a warm invitation into the enchanting world of "The Blue Trunk". I am Ujval Anand, the founder, curator of "The Blue Trunk" which was born from a simple yet profound passion: to uncover the treasures that encapsulate India's diverse cultural narrative. This journey began with a spirited quest that led me to the less-charted territories, the small towns, and the quiet villages. In these places, i forged connections with collectors, local families, estate owners, and artisans. They became my guides, revealing the intricacies of Indian crafts, the stories woven into communities, the enduring traditions, and the flavors that define regional cuisines. The pursuit of these treasures wasn't without its challenges. It meant navigating rough terrains, bridging language gaps, and sometimes returning empty-handed. Yet, the elation of discovering a piece untouched by time or witnessing a craftsman's mastery was a reward in itself.
Today, I share this passion with you through a collection of vintage and handcrafted pieces, each with its own story to tell. The trust you place in me is a source of great pride and gratitude. I am committed to carrying on this journey, bringing a piece of India's crafts and traditions to your doorstep. For a closer look at my adventures, follow #TravelWithTheBlueTrunk on Instagram. Join me in this virtual treasure hunt, where every picture holds a story.
Thank you for being part of our narrative!
Frames that whisper tales from the roads less traveled
I have always been drawn to capturing places, people, and moments that tell a story. Photography, for me, is a way to preserve these fleeting glimpses—small windows into a world rich with history, culture, and emotion.
A few years ago, during my course on Indian Aesthetics, I was introduced to the rasa theory, an ancient framework that defines the nine core emotions of human experience: love, joy, sorrow, anger, courage, fear, disgust, wonder, and peace. The idea stayed with me, shaping the way I saw and felt the world around me.
While creating this website, it felt natural to include some of these captures and connect them to the emotions they evoke—offering a visual interpretation of the rasa theory through still images.
From the nostalgia of a forgotten alley to the vibrance of a bustling bazaar, each frame reflects a moment, an emotion, and a piece of India's diverse cultural tapestry. This collection is an invitation to explore India through feeling and memory—where every image is a story waiting to be experienced.
~~ THE RASAS OF LIFE ~~
Shringara (love/beauty)
The aesthetic and emotional essence of love, beauty, and romantic sentiment depicted through various art forms.
Hasya (laughter)
The essence of laughter and mirth, is reflected in these images, capturing the whimsical and joyful moments that evoke spontaneous smiles.
Karuna(sorrow)
Encapsulates the bittersweet beauty of compassion and empathy, revealing moments that stir the heart with a profound sense of shared humanity.
Raudra (anger)
Embodies the fierce and dynamic energy of anger, offering a glimpse into the intensity and power that surges through the captured scenes.
Veera (heroism/courage)
The embodiment of valor and heroic spirit, pulses through these visuals, encapsulating moments that exude strength, courage, and the indomitable spirit of triumph.
Bhayanaka (terror/fear)
The essence of fear and awe, finds expression in these images, evoking a visceral response as they unravel mysterious and intense moments.
Bibhatsa (disgust)
An aesthetic exploration of the grotesque and repulsive, unveils a unique beauty within the unconventional, challenging conventional norms of artistic expression.
Adbutha (surprise/wonder)
The aesthetic experience of wonder and amazement, breathes life into these captivating images, evoking a sense of awe and marvel.