The Changing Charpai
- Free
- Special Project
- Exhibition
Art Park
If one were to imagine a single piece of furniture that embodies India, it is the Charpai. Simple yet ingenious, the charpai is portable, economical, sustainable, and multifunctional, serving both personal needs and social gatherings. A wooden frame with four legs- char (four) pai (legs) woven with fibre or fabric, it is more than an object; it is a way of life, seamlessly adapting to the environment and community.
Predominantly seen in Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Maharashtra, its frugal design made it ideal for shared outdoor spaces, where life once unfolded in the commons. Today, shrinking public spaces and increasingly indoor lifestyles challenge its presence in contemporary life. This project reimagines the charpai, exploring its historic, cultural, and social significance while inviting leading designers and thinkers to reinterpret it for the future.
