Vaishnavy Santhosh

AR2065

This project looks at the seasonal homes of the Maldhari pastoral community in the Gir Forest of Gujarat. It focuses on their special shelters used during the monsoon and while traveling. Through the perspective of a 7-year-old goat named Chana and a buffalo named Bhanu, we explore the daily lives of the Maldharis. We see how their housing choices relate to the weather, their animals, and their cultural practices. Important spaces include the osri (shelter), ordo (cooking area), rasoda (kitchen), and cattle enclosures. These areas are practical and hold cultural meaning. The traveling shelter is designed for flexibility, allowing Maldharis to move as they travel for eight months. This portfolio highlights the need for homes that are both useful and meaningful, showcasing the strong spirit of the Maldharis who live outdoors.