Babu Bibi

(2009)

Leena Kejriwal’s “Babu Bibi Series” presents a unique perspective on the commercial studio portrait. She reimagines the Bibis from the 19th-century Kalighat Ghat of Bengal in a contemporary light. Through this graphic series, she captures the essence of “Kolkata Indulging.” Each photograph in the series tells a story, offering viewers a glimpse into a bygone era while remaining relevant in today’s Calcutta, a city that has been Leena’s timeless muse.

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White-clothed Babu walks his dog past an old building sketch; a 30 km/hr sign features. Inspired by Kalighat pats

Babu 1

A limited-edition series showing a woman yawning under her husband's portrait, who looks equally scone-full after death

Poter Bibi 3

Babu Bibi series inspired by Kalighat pats depicting a bibi languorously reclining on her four-poster bed

Poter Bibi 2

Inspired by early '90s Kalighat pat paintings, this series shows a voluptuous woman on a stool, watching a performance from her balcony

Poter Bibi 4

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Leena Kejriwal’s galleries are powerful visual narratives that illuminate the harsh realities of our world while inspiring change through art.