How 130 artists gave Rajasthan's wooden trunks a colourful new life

Artists in Rajasthan's Bikaner celebrated the arrival of the monsoon by transforming traditional wooden trunks into colourful works of art during the 17th edition of Rang Malhar, an annual workshop dedicated to rain, nature and heritage.

Around 130 artists, including children, senior painters and art enthusiasts, participated in the unique event, decorating wooden trunks with vibrant depictions of clouds, raindrops, flowers, trees and other monsoon-inspired themes.

This year's workshop centred on the traditional sandook, or wooden trunk, introducing younger generations to an object that once served as an essential household storage chest.

Artists used the trunks as canvases, combining folk-inspired motifs with contemporary creativity.

Launched in Jaipur in 2009, Rang Malhar has expanded into an international art initiative, bringing together artists from across India and around the world to celebrate the monsoon, promote environmental consciousness and keep traditional art forms alive.