Arati Kumar-Rao discusses self-discovery through travel and writing, navigating the digital age, family influences on ethical choices, balancing truth-telling in storytelling, observation in photography and writing, and unexpected discoveries in Calcutta. She also explores environmental themes, creative growth through new experiences, government intervention in environmental matters, challenges of urban migration, and unintended consequences of the Farakka Barrage.
Embrace slow living to deeply connect with landscapes and narratives, prioritizing authentic storytelling.
Challenge conventional norms in storytelling by embracing complexity, fostering humility, and respecting diverse perspectives.
Shift focus from short-term narratives to interconnected stories of landscapes over time, emphasizing curiosity and exploration.
Recognize the holistic impact of individual actions on interconnected ecosystems, emphasizing the need for comprehensive perspectives in environmental stewardship.
Balance modern aspirations with preserving traditional knowledge, advocating for structural changes towards sustainable practices and community empowerment.
Deep dives
Understanding Where We Stand
The concept of understanding one's place in the world is explored, emphasizing the importance of contemplating where we stand both physically and metaphorically. The podcast episode delves into the depth of recognizing the actual location we are in, reflecting on its history and potential future. The poet Wendell Berry's quote, 'What I stand for is what I stand on,' prompts introspection on our values and connections to the environment we inhabit.
Journey of Self-Exploration and Authenticity
The podcast guest, Arthi Kumar Rao, shares her journey of self-discovery and authenticity, highlighting the importance of aligning personal values with professional pursuits. Through her experiences with storytelling and photography, she navigates the complexities of pursuing a meaningful narrative without compromising integrity. The shift towards slow travel and deep immersion in diverse landscapes underscores her commitment to genuine storytelling and connection with people and nature.
Challenging Conventional Narratives and Embracing Complexity
Arthi Kumar Rao's narrative journey challenges conventional storytelling norms, emphasizing the need to embrace the complexity of environmental and social issues. By questioning preconceived notions and fostering humility in her approach, she uncovers multifaceted truths in the stories she tells. Her exploration of fluid borders, ecological interconnections, and community conservation reflects a deep respect for diverse perspectives and a commitment to authentic storytelling.
Importance of Immersion in Slow Storytelling
The journey towards a deeper form of storytelling began with a realization of the need to immerse oneself in stories, moving away from transactional interactions to emotionally connected narratives. The idea of immersing in landscapes and time was reinforced by the concept of slow violence, where destruction unfolds gradually over seasons and generations. This shift allowed for a broader perspective on storytelling, emphasizing the interconnectedness of narratives and the significance of absorbing oneself deeply in landscapes.
Transition to Seeing the Bigger Picture
The transition from focusing on shorter-term stories to seeing the bigger picture involved a gradual process of shifting attention from the present moment to understanding historical linkages and broader narratives. This shift was facilitated by moments of realization that prompted a deeper exploration into the interconnectedness of stories and landscapes over time. The narrative journey evolved into a continuous exploration of curiosity, revealing interconnected threads that unified diverse stories into a larger conversation.
Realization of Connectedness and Impact of Actions
The journey of understanding deeper stories led to a profound realization of the interconnectedness of landscapes and ecosystems, recognizing the impact of individual actions in broader contexts. Observing the ripple effects of interventions in one area on distant landscapes highlighted the importance of viewing the environment as a cohesive entity. This awareness underscored the significance of considering the holistic impacts of decisions on interconnected ecological systems, emphasizing the need for comprehensive perspectives in storytelling and environmental stewardship.
The Importance of Seeing the Bigger Picture
Being able to understand the interconnectedness of actions and consequences, particularly in terms of ecologically destructive practices like dam construction and the displacement of communities, highlights the importance of considering long-term impacts. The podcast emphasizes the significance of taking a broader perspective and not just focusing on immediate consequences or benefits. Through examples like the impact of the Sadhgav region over centuries and the need to understand the complexities of ecosystems, it underscores the value of holistic thinking.
Challenges in Balancing Modernity and Traditional Lifestyles
The discussion dives into the complexities of balancing modern aspirations with the preservation of traditional ways of life and ecological knowledge. It examines the impact of urbanization on rural populations, the shortcomings of the education system in equipping individuals for sustainable livelihoods, and the importance of empowering local communities to implement context-specific solutions. By highlighting the need for structural changes in governance, education, and urban planning, the podcast advocates for a shift towards sustainable practices and a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness between development and the environment.
Realization through Contrast and Privilege
The speaker describes how contrasting experiences, from witnessing devastation to returning to a comfortable lifestyle, led to a realization of privilege and a deep sense of humility. This contrast made the speaker acutely aware of the lottery of birth and instilled a sense of humility, acknowledging the ability to leave while others cannot.
Influential Mentors and Writing Process
The speaker highlights the impact of mentors like Prem Pinniger and Paul Salopek in shaping their writing journey. From Prem's dedication to detail and Paul's humility, the speaker draws inspiration for their craft. The process of observing keenly, walking through landscapes, and recording memories aids in capturing vivid details while drawing on influences from authors like J.A. Baker and Rachel Carson.
She gave up a corporate career to live a slow life: to travel, to immerse, to write, to learn to see. Arati Kumar-Rao joins Amit Varma in episode 383 of The Seen and the Unseen to talk about her writing, her photography and the lessons she has learnt by standing still and looking. (FOR FULL LINKED SHOW NOTES, GO TO SEENUNSEEN.IN.) Also check out:
