[Vastra.] Film Screening by Radhikal

Join us for the premier screening of [Vastra.] a short film by Radhikal Collective.

[Vastra.] –वस्त्र (n. “garment”)

Through every weave, a journey.

From the bustling garment districts of Sri Lanka to the vibrant Indian diaspora communities of Melbourne, [Vastra.] traces the journey of a single garment that has dressed many for millennia. More than fabric, the sari is a living language – woven by the hands of master craftsmen of the past and present to evolve into a bond that shapes communities through storytelling.

Featuring intimate conversations with designers Shilpa Rajesh and Amilani Perera, [Vastra.] presents a celebration of makers and wearers: the women who wear their heritage with pride and the artisans who, with generations of skill, breathe life into every thread, taking the journey of the sari through to the 21st century. 

[Vastra.] is a love letter to cloth, to craft, and to the women who refuse to let either be forgotten.

Dress Code: We welcome traditional and heirloom pieces and would love to hear your stories.

Program Overview:

4:30 PM | Complementary warm chai service in the foyer

5:15 PM | Studio doors open 

5:45 PM | Screening event commences 

6:30 PM | Screening event concludes, live music begins in the foyer

8:00 PM | Event concludes

Accessibility:

This is a free, seated program. There are no steps to enter Bunjil Place, the foyer, and the Studio areas. This event contains a mixture of visual and audio components, including dialogue (uncaptioned), music, other sounds, and video.  

Studio Access

Inside the studio, there are some steps to access the seating bank. Some level-entry seating is available, and audience members with access needs are prioritised. Lighting inside the studio is low, and house lights will remain darkened throughout the screening (approx. 15 minutes). Seating will be assigned by the City of Casey ushering staff. 

Foyer Access

Some seating is available on couches. The foyer is warmly lit. You can enter and exit the foyer and building anytime you wish. A quiet space and prayer room is available for use. 

Parking 

Nearby parking lots are located along Patrick North-East Drive. The carparks connect to the precinct with zebra crossings and multiple curb-cut walking paths. Parking is free, and on Saturdays, there are no time limits.

Car Drop Off

The best place for vehicle drop-off is outside Bunjil Place, along Patrick North-East Drive. Enter via Overland Drive. There are multiple designated spaces for cars to pull over safely and let passengers out. 

Social Expectations

Audiences can choose to mingle/interact with each other before and after the event, if they wish to do so. We prefer that audiences are quiet during the screening. Applause will be welcomed upon conclusion. There will be no requests for audience participation. 

Image: [Vastra.] film still. Courtesy the artists.