The title Bariwali, in Bengali, traditionally refers to a landlady. However, my series represents women as the true owners of their spaces. Despite the struggles of their daily lives, they have created their worlds within the confines of their homes,” says Debosmita Samantha, whose exhibit Bariwali will be hosted by Method, Kala Ghoda, from December 9 to 15.

Samantha hails from a humble background in West Bengal and grew up surrounded by women. “Growing up in a middle-class family in a rented house with several others, I witnessed the daily chaos of domestic life. Women in those spaces lived within limitations, often confined to their homes, but they embraced their roles wholeheartedly. Their daily rituals, chores, and expressions inspire me deeply, which is why I chose to tell their stories,” says Samantha.