In Kolkata, 74-year-old Ratnabali Ghosh, known as 'Alpona Didi,' starts her day at 5:30 AM to draw traditional Bengali alpona at the doors of strangers, aiming to bring a smile to their faces.
Inspired by her mother, Ratnabali believes that art should help people feel wanted, valued, and less lonely. Despite age and arthritis complicating her work, she refuses to give up.
During Durga Puja, her story demonstrates how 'Alpona Didi' keeps the living folk craft of Bengal alive, decorating doorsteps. Her traditional alpona patterns welcome people leaving in the morning, whether from residential buildings, shop windows, or restaurant entrances.
Her example serves as a reminder that traditions are preserved by those who choose to continue them, and that kindness matters even when no one is watching.