Stories
We Were Connected in a More Complicated Way Than Either of Us Could Even Begin to Understand
Photography Commission
Film and Words by Monica Rani Rudhar
We Were Connected in a More Complicated Way Than Either of Us Could Even Begin to Understand was commissioned by Powerhouse for Holi, the ancient Hindu festival of colours; a celebration of rebirth, togetherness, and the triumph of good over evil.
The work was inspired by Object No. 17431 from the Powerhouse Collection; a specimen of purree (Indian Yellow) pigment that was in common use until the 19th century. It is a dye originating from India, made in the bladder of a cow fed only mango leaves and water.
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I recall my mother’s stories about her beloved childhood cow, Monica, and though she denies naming me after her, I like to imagine a past where I existed as this cow and was able to comfort my mum through her difficult childhood.
Object No. 17431
My father tells stories about the cravings my mother had for mangoes while she was pregnant with me. I imagine my own personal and familial narratives, particularly the convergence of my ancestral roots, which originate from two distant parts of the world. I contemplate my Indian lineage and the representation of cows in Hinduism, drawing parallels to the sacred connection between my mum and her pet cow. I consider reincarnation; the cycle of birth and death, the transience of my body, and the guidance of my ancestors across generations.
