Ialong, hakum!

One figure—a woman's body with a masculine face—navigates societal expectations. Another—a bamboo structure with a heart at its centre—embodies Mother Nature. Two visions of refuge.

Artists

James Alfred Rymbai, Puja Lamgu (Northeast India)

Medium

Different kinds of wood, Mixed media- Bamboo craft and Coloured drawing inks

Venue

Vallabhdas Kanji Limited (VKL) Warehouse, Mattancherry, Fort Kochi, Kerala

Timings

10AM to 6PM (Mon to Sunday)

Till March 31st, 2026

About

Ialong, hakum! brings together Puja Lamgu and James Alfred Rymbai to explore gender norms and the nurturing essence of nature.

The wooden figure, crafted from various woods, symbolizes identity's complexity. A woman's body—open, vulnerable—meets a masculine face conveying intensity. It mirrors the struggle to navigate expectations and personal fears.

The bamboo structure extends from earth, embodying Mother Nature as caretaker. At its centre: a heart signifying life and vitality, drawing from rich indigenous traditions of the Northeast.

Together: dialogue about identity's challenges and nature as refuge. Beauty in differences. Strength in collaboration.

Kochi Biennale 2025