Biennale holds wisdom poetry workshop based on teachings of spiritual poets

Kochi / March 17, 2026

Kochi, Mar. 17: A two-day wisdom poetry workshop, titled Prem Pathare (On the Path of Love), was held at the ABC Art Room as part of the Kochi-Muziris Biennale, bringing together participants to explore poetry and music made immortal by spiritual poets.

The workshop, facilitated by artist Santhi Priya, introduced participants to wisdom poetry traditions, including Baul and Kabir songs, drawing from the teachings of spiritual poets across different periods.

Baul songs are deeply devotional and philosophical folk music from Bengal, embodying a mystic and syncretic tradition that emphasizes finding the divine within the human body.

The sessions encouraged participants to experience poetry and music beyond boundaries and engage with themes of love and unity.

Priya said the space allowed people from diverse backgrounds to come together through song and poetry.

“The workshop explored Baul and Kabir songs as well as works from several masters across time that speak to us as human beings beyond boundaries. Participants sang together, reflected on the meanings of the songs, and shared their thoughts and interpretations, making it a mixture of singing and conversation,” she said, adding: “For me, it was a really beautiful experience.”

Priya also highlighted the significance of the venue. “The space felt very beautiful and open, especially with the children’s art around us. It created an honest invitation for people to come together as they are,” she said.

She further noted that each session brought together different participants, with some returning for multiple sessions while new attendees joined, bringing fresh energy to the workshop.

As part of the programme, Priya presented a Baul music performance at Aspinwall House, featuring Baul and Kabir songs and other wisdom poetry traditions shared through oral poetry and storytelling. She also guided a silence meditation session and shared songs centred on silence and inner reflection.

Participants and visitors joined the programme and experienced an evening marked by music, reflection, and shared listening.

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