Out of the Blue is a film that is an exploration of an artisanal phenomenon which represents a natural resource that was heavily exploited with disastrous results during colonial times. It is an exploration of the story & history of indigo production in Bengal, its exploitative past and its gradual revival in sustainable fashion by local artisans and entrepreneurs in what is now Bangladesh, to replace the narrative of colonizing with that of reclaiming heritage by the people of this region. Indigo is now a product of pride and potential as well as the revolutionary spirit of sustainable fashion. It is also a visual representation of the idea of the awakening of the new generation depicted through the magical hues of natural indigo. It highlights the artisans of indigo revival in Bangladesh, igniting an interest in this ancient tradition and how it can be promoted through slow fashion through sustainable methods as it can have an impact on the world’s understanding of this important artisanal craft that exists at the intersection of indigenous expression and colonial legacy.

It’s a play on the Indigo Revolt, as there was such a thing as an Indigo Rebellion so this whole revival on indigo by people from the region from where it came from is also a kind of rebellion against the whole idea of appropriation of heritage of other lands, that are often triumphant narraitives of colonization. The concept of revival is that it is a sort of rebellion to counter the exploitation of the colonizers by taking the same product (that was cultivated by force 150 years ago), producing and using it in the same way but in the hands of the indigenous people. It gives a sense of empowerment to the artisans and cultivators and all those involved in the revival of indigo.

Themes include reclaiming heritage, critique of the colonial history and exploitation of indigo farmers in Bengal as well as the revival of indigo dye production and use in sustainable/slow fashion. While there are many more soldiers involved in the make-up of what is indigo, the people highlighted are the main drivers behind the cultivation and production of indigo. This project also aims to highlight the vibrancy and creative spirit of the people of this region who are behind the magic of making the bold dye.