Welcome to season 6 of the True Fiction Project Podcast! I’m thrilled to start this season off with my dear friend Rachana Devidayal. Rachana is a graphic design artist with a profound connection to her craft and the stories she tells through her work. In this episode, she opens up about her journey—why she chose a path different from her mother’s, how her struggles are reflected in her art and the barriers she’s had to overcome along the way. We also dive into the deep inspiration she draws from the sacred Narmada River, the rituals of Maheshwar, and her ongoing artistic projects. Join us for an insightful conversation about creativity, resilience, and the interplay between art and spirituality.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [2:01] Rachana shares her background as a graphic design artist and why she felt she needed to follow a different path than her mother
• [6:49] How her struggles are reflected in her work
• [13:08] Rachana describes the dams she erects in her heart
• [15:43] Rachana describes this huge puja, this huge religious ceremony
• [17:13] Rachana describes a ritual in the town called Maheshwar and her last project, which is still a work in progress
• [19:28] The inspiration behind Rachana’s focus on the river

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Flowing uniquely east to west, the Narmada River is revered as one of India’s most sacred, believed to cleanse sins with a mere glance. Its deep spiritual significance inspires artistic exploration, with layered mediums reflecting the river’s essence and timeless story.
• The Narmada River exudes unstoppable feminine energy, defying control despite controversies and environmental impacts. A holy man’s prediction of her resistance was affirmed by early dam failures, symbolizing her enduring vitality and inspiring awe and resilience.
• Artists often face self-imposed barriers, but awareness enables reinvention and progress. Each success breaks old limitations, though new challenges arise, reflecting growth, persistence, and artistic fulfillment.

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GUEST RESOURCES:

Rachana Devidayal - Website

Rachana Devidayal Design - LinkedIn

Rachana Devidayal - Facebook

Rachana Devidayal - Instagram

HOST RESOURCES

Website

LinkedIn 

Tiktok 

Instagram 

Facebook 

Twitter (X) 

Substack 

Threads 

LinkTree 

BIOGRAPHY: Rachana Devidayal

I completed my education at the Cathedral School, Bombay, and earned honors in Graphic Design from the Rhode Island School of Design in 1994. With a passion for print media, I’ve worked on diverse projects for publishing houses, museums, and private clients. I taught art to ISDI School of Design & Innovation students and co-founded Flying Tricycle Workshops in 2016, curating creative programs for children. Reconnecting with fine arts during the pandemic led to my 2023 solo exhibition, Palash & Baadal, inspired by the light and architecture of Mandu. My paper and watercolor works blend structured design, artistic freedom, and vibrant color.

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